Oh, I'm so sorry you're going through that. I read about another guy on this forum who did the dish soap and petroleum thing, too, and had the same reaction. He wrote that it took him a year and a half to get back to normal. According to his post, he began using a lip balm on his lips all the time after that, and then eventually weened himself off the balm by replacing it with glycerin gel. Did you try the Labello balm yet? See if you can find some shea butter, then put the Labello balm over that. Also, use a warm wet wash cloth on your lips twice a day, morning and night to exfoliate. It will probably take you a few days for your symptoms to mellow out. I hope you feel better.