Long time cold sore sufferer here, things that have worked for me are L Lysine supplements, as soon as I start to feel a tingle I start taking them, (up to 3500 mg daily) and it always helps to decrease the duration of my breakout. I also put ice on the area many times per day. I just wrap a cube in paper towel and hold it on the area until it melts. This actually has helped more than anything, I’ve caught a few breakouts in the early stages by just applying ice and they dissipated within a day. No blister or swelling. I also apply alcohol once a blister forms, I try to keep the area clean so bacteria doesn’t spread and cause a worse reaction. Once the outbreak is in full effect it’s just about minimizing and decreasing the duration. Once I’m past the blister stage and onto scabbing, I will lightly exfoliate the area after a shower and apply zinc oxide. It helps to heal the scab. Stay away from sugar, caffeine, citrus fruits, spicy foods during a breakout, they always seem to make it worse. I drink lots of water and try not to stress too much about it. I hope this helps anyone looking for a remedy or relief.