Applying Vaseline to lips on Tisha b’Av

Question:

Is it permitted for one to apply Vaseline to one’s lips on Tisha b’Av? My lips are very dry and I am in extreme pain and I would really like to know if this is permitted.

Answer:

Yes, it is permitted without restriction for you to apply Vaseline and Chapstick to your charred lips on Tisha b’Av to relieve pain.

Explanation:

One of the five afflictions which are required to be practice on Tisha b’Av is the affliction of anointing. This prohibits one from smearing oils, and other skin pampering cosmetics onto his body throughout the day. However, it is only prohibited to do so when the intent of the lotion or oil is for a pleasure purpose, or according to some authorities for the purpose of adding comfortability such as to remove sweat. However, when it is done for a medicinal purpose, then according to all opinions it was never included in the decree and is permitted to be applied even initially on Tisha b’Av. Furthermore, even on Yom Kippur when the restriction is biblical it is permitted to be done so long as one is smearing an item, such as oil, which does not involve a Shabbos smearing prohibition. Accordingly, one may apply Vaseline or any type of lip balm to his lips on Tisha b’Av without restriction when it is being done for the sake of relieving pain.

Sources: Michaber 554:15; 614:1; Admur 614:1; Yuma 77b; See also Michaber Y.D. 381:2 regarding Shiva