Days 1–2: intense
Lips are swollen (often noticeably so the morning after), tender, and the colour looks much darker, redder and more sharply defined than the goal. Lymph oozes and dries; a thin tight film forms. This is normal and not the result.
Days 3–5: the shed
The film and any light scabbing flake off — often starting at the centre and inner edge. Do not pick; let it release on its own. Underneath, the lip looks pale, frosty or patchy, sometimes with barely any colour at all.
Days 5–14: the 'ghosting' low
Peak doubt. Colour can seem almost gone as a fresh layer of epidermis sits over the pigment. Lips may feel dry and chapped. Keep them lightly moisturised and be patient.
Weeks 2–4: colour resurfaces
As the epidermis thins and settles, pigment 'blooms' back — usually 30–50% softer than day one, and a little cooler. By four weeks you can honestly judge tone and evenness.
Weeks 6–10: touch-up, then done
The perfecting session fills what dropped out. Once that heals, roughly two to three months from the start, you are looking at the real, lasting colour.
