I have taken L-Lysine before (up to 4000mg a day), but it hasn't really helped. Although it has helped other people it seems. I think its better to take it in combination with vitamin b stress tabs.

It was more relentless peeling. Scaley looking more than scabby. I wasn't a lip biter. Suspect it was related to stress, possibly an opportunistic viral thing. It could also be a reaction to an antibiotic, although it continued long after I stopped taking them.

About the Acne - there's a non-soap cleanser that made a huge difference for me. It's called Purity, made by Philosophy. It's not cheap, but you only use like a dime-sized spot for your face. It might feel a little "metrosexual", but they do make men's stuff as well. Doesn't smell girly... It does a great job of cleaning your face without overdrying it.