I have been doing the same thing for months although my crusts were never as thick as yours they were thinner from the beginning but still its been the same process. I'm nearly healed now so can vouch that it definately works. One thing I would say if you want a break and are going a little mad then I steam my lips unroll they are very wet and wipe away the fresh skin and go for a night out. Its good to have a release and it doesn't cause your progress to be ruined the healed skin remains and then you just carry on with your healing.