yeah, japanese worked for me. Just leave them alone. It sucks. It takes a long time. Then slowly they come back.
I took accutane years ago and then afterwards continued to slather my lips in aquafor. Lips never got back to normal. Psychologically it really messed with me for a long time. To some extent is still does (hence why I'm even on this site right now). My lips are pretty much back now but I think they're still getting better everyday. Definitely loads better than they used to be and I don't have to carry around that gross little tube anymore.
good luck.
report back and I'll try to help where I can. Biggest thing is not to pick. Don't wipe off the build up when you get out of the shower. It know it looks bad and super white at first but once it dries it looks fine.