Crack damage in so-called MAX phase metallo-ceramics, like Ti₃AlC₂, Ti₂AlC and Cr₂AlC, can be healed by high temperature oxidation. Then the crack gap is filled with mainly Al₂O₃, which restores the integrity of the component made out of these MAX phases. This oxidation induced self-healing is an attractive mechanism, since the MAX phase itself is part of the healing reaction and the healing agent is formed with oxygen from the ambient air. Full strength recovery can be realized when the crack gap is fully filled with oxide. Also crack damage can be healed multiple times even when re-cracking occurs at the same location in the MAX phase material. Self-healing of these MAX phases together with their unique combination properties makes them a prospective material for operating under extreme conditions at high temperatures.