Remedy for Women to Treat Their Cold Sores

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare today released results from a new national survey of female cold sore sufferers revealing that cold sores impact many dimensions of a woman’s life, including everyday activities, relationships and confidence.

Women report feeling self-conscious (86 percent), unattractive (77 percent) and embarrassed (72 percent) with a cold sore. In fact, two-thirds of women say a cold sore feels like the worst thing in the world and that they wouldn’t wish it on their worst enemy.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) recently introduced Abreva Conceal, a clear, non-medicated patch that covers cold sores, providing a smooth surface to apply makeup on top.

“Cold sores are more than just a health or beauty issue; they’re a confidence issue,” said Carmindy, a professional makeup artist from TLC’s TV show What Not to Wear – according to GSK.

Abreva Conceal uses MicroAir technology, which allows air in while keeping contaminants out, says GSK. Once the cold sore blister has appeared, Abreva Conceal can be placed over it, creating a covered, protected environment for the cold sore for up to eight hours.

It can be used with your normal makeup routine – whether that’s liquid or powder foundation, lipstick or lip gloss – and provides a smooth surface so that makeup can be applied on top of the patch. Carmindy teamed up with GSK to show consumers how to use the product in a new demonstration video.

“Our research illustrates the social and emotional impact cold sores can have and the need for products like Abreva Conceal,” said Dr. Vidhu Bansal, director of Medical Affairs of GSK Consumer Healthcare.

Research for the cold sore sufferer survey was conducted and fielded by Edelman Berland: 1,022 adult female cold sore sufferers, who experience two or more cold sores annually, were questioned.

The survey was fielded online between August 23 and August 31, 2012 and consisted of 30 questions. The survey results were announced today, Oct. 4.