If you've ever Googled cold sore remedies, you've probably encountered one ingredient repeatedly:

Lysine.

It's in supplements. Lip products. Cold sore products. And now it's in Conserving Beauty's new lip care range.

So what actually is Lysine? And why did we formulate with it?

First, what is Lysine?

Lysine is an essential amino acid.

"Essential" means your body needs it but cannot produce enough of it independently, so it must be obtained through the diet.

Amino acids are involved in numerous normal biological processes throughout the body.

Why is Lysine associated with cold sores?

Lysine has been widely researched and commonly used in cold sore care, particularly through oral supplements and topical products.

Research has explored its potential role in people prone to recurrent cold sores. However, clinical evidence varies depending on the dose, format and study.

That's important, because it means Lysine shouldn't be considered a replacement for appropriate antiviral medication.

So why does Conserving Beauty use it?

Because our approach isn't about relying on one ingredient to do everything.

We formulated Lysine alongside ingredients chosen to help hydrate, condition, soothe and support dry and stressed lips. Depending on the product, our range combines Lysine with Hyaluronic Acid, Zinc PCA, Panthenol, peptides, lipids, Aloe Vera and other hydrating and conditioning ingredients.

And we changed how it's delivered

This was the part we were particularly interested in. Instead of simply creating another conventional lip balm, we developed three very different formats.

Lysine Lip Healing Patches

Targeted, water-activated NanoDOTE™ nanofibres containing 5% Lysine + 25% Hyaluronic Acid.

Flare-Up Rescue Mist

An ultra-fine, invisible and touch-free mist containing Lysine alongside Zinc PCA, Panthenol, Aloe Vera and soothing hydrators.

Lysine Healing Lip Serums

Lightweight, nourishing lip serums formulated with Lysine, Zinc PCA, Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid, peptides and lipids. Available in Clear, Cherry and Toasted Honey.

The bottom line

Lysine has a long association with cold sore care, but we're careful about what that means.

Our products aren't antiviral medicines and aren't designed to replace appropriate medical treatment. Instead, we use Lysine as part of thoughtfully formulated cosmetic products designed to help hydrate, condition and support cold sore-prone, dry and stressed lips.

Because we think how you care for a cold sore matters too. And we thought it was time the formats caught up.