6 ways to zap that COLD SORE

Make this health niggle more tolerable with our easy home remedies

- 

There's never a good time to get a cold sore, and it always feels like they last for a lot longer than they should - especially if you have a big event on the horizon. 'They should heal within one to two weeks,' says prosthodontist Dr Paul Springs. Too long to wait? Fear not - our experts have tips for potentially speeding up the process.

1 Moisturise your lips

Keeping the area well-hydrated - with lip balm, for example - can help to make it more comfortable, says Dr Springs. 'Apply the moisturiser with a cotton swab or with your fingertip, because applying directly from the container can lead to contamination. Be sure to wash your hands after you've applied the balm.'