I suffered from chronic AC for years and tried the soap solution described above and it worked very well for me. But after seeing a knowledgable dermatologist a simple question she asked solved ALL of my AC problems: what kind of toothpaste do you use? She told me that the "all in one" toothpastes are TERRIBLE for your lips and to switch to basic anti-cavity Crest. I did so about 3 months ago and have not had a SINGLE bout of AC ever again. Just thought I'd pass this along in case it helps someone else.