There are provided, inter alia, novel stabilized compositions for treating skin conditions wherein a therapeutically effective dosage of sulfur compound is applied which results in healing. The utilized dosage of sulfur compound results in a quicker breakdown of the virus capsid structure, resulting e.g., in faster healing. The dosing regimen to maintain the concentrations of the sulfur containing amino acid at the affected site also helps achieve quicker healing. The formulations and the methods are applicable to a variety of skin conditions including cold sores, herpes, genital herpes and shingles.