Its herpes like chicken pox (and Shingles which I've had) but is a different form of the virus.
I get coldsores all the time I use cream and at the very least it takes the redness away and makes it scab up quicker.
Like you, I've had chicken pox and Shingles.
And, when I'm really down, I get cold sores.
Medication can control it. But prevention is best. Rest, lack of stress, good diet.

