Denise,
What I take on this discussion of tx of sore nipples is not to let the cracked
nipples form scabs.
I too have the moms first express their milk to the nipples then either apply
some lanolin or a hydrogel drsg.  What I do not have moms do any more is to
use hair dryers. Air drying intact nipples are fine just not recommended when
there is a break in the skin. Remember the idea of moist wound healing is
capturing the body's own moisture to accelerate the healing not keeping them
wet with outside fluids.
Also what is needed at first is to correct the problem that caused the cracked
nipples.
Ann Perry RN IBCLC