Cold sore Q&A

What vitamins and minerals help prevent cold sore outbreaks?

Zinc is the most evidence-backed mineral for cold sore prevention: it disrupts HSV-1 replication and, as zinc oxide, physically blocks the UV exposure that triggers herpes labialis reactivation. Most lip balms worsen outbreaks because menthol and camphor strip the epidermal barrier. Labisan's 22% zinc oxide SPF 20 formula inverts this logic: mineral sunblock plus occlusive barrier, not chemical irritants. Graviola acetogenins (22:1 extract, 8000mg fresh-fruit daily equivalent) and lysine provide complementary oral suppression. Vitamins C and D round out systemic immune defence.

Evidence

  • Zinc oxide at 22% concentration delivers physical UV barrier; UV exposure is a primary documented trigger for HSV-1 reactivation in herpes labialis.
  • Graviola annonacins via 22:1 extract standardisation (8000mg fresh-fruit daily equivalent) show in-vitro immunomodulatory activity relevant to HSV-1 viral latency management.
  • Topical menthol and camphor, present in most standard lip balms, compromise the stratum corneum barrier and prolong healing time in active herpes labialis lesions.

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