Re: Water Fasting or the next 8 years of suffering ?

I agree with with the other posts here. For a long time now much of the information on this forum has been pretty useless. There are obviously still a number of people stuck with this condition so we should definitely try and collaborate rather than all flailing alone like we are at the moment.

I'm 27 and have had EC for 6-7 years now. Have tried a whole number of different approaches all with varied results. My EC is definitely not as bad as some of the other people in this group and I don't get big yellow crusty skin buildups. Mine is a constant peeling/ build-up of hard skin on both lips which leaves them very raw, constantly feeling dry, need constant applications of Lip Balm (every 30 mins). If your condition is towards the more extreme end of EC then my deepest sympathy goes out to you. I have found mine incredibly hard to deal with over the years so I can somewhat understand how debilitating it can be.

In terms of my treatment and thing that have helped me the most:

- Sunshine is the number one thing that drastically improves my condition. (I'm not sure if this is related to Vitamin D deficiency, My levels have always been fine)
- Secondly Exercise, This goes hand in hand with getting outdoors but I have run over 1000km this year and that helps me both with tolerating how physically uncomfortable you lips can feel but also mentally, It helps me feel like I'm not sitting around waiting for this condition to get better. My philosophy has been that if I get my body as healthy and happy as it can be then I stand the best chance of healing my lips.
- Leaving them alone for as long as possible. I know this was also mentioned but the only times I have ever seen any real changes in this condition have been when I've left them alone to heal as long as my life permits me. Usually, this is a day or two at the weekend when I let them feel incredibly dry (I can hardly talk let alone smile) and do my best to tolerate them.

In terms of getting through daily life. Peeling your lips in the shower once they get wet with a salt exfoliant is definitely the best way of getting rid of build-ups.
I use Aquaphor or Pawpaw have both been pretty reliable lip balms for me for daily use.

I've tried numerous Balms, Cleanses, Ointments, Steroid Treatments. All have done nothing to help me.

I'm also prepared to try anything except some bullshit water cleanse or to starve myself on some nonsense rationale.

I hope this is helpful to someone, saw your messages and though I should chip it.

G