I was around the same, 2-3 day cycles. Now they range between 7-10 days. For the first 3-5 days my lower lip (since I only have EC on my lower lip) looks pretty normal, then the skin starts to build. Maybe try and extend your cycles out longer. Even if leave alone isn't the cure, I do think it helps manage the appearance over time. Constant trauma whether forcing the skin off or not is something we all deal with. It's better to only peel after the lips have been moisturized, at least for me. When it's ready to come off, for me 10 days is still to early. My trick is to go the first 3-5 days with no moisture, maybe longer, then start applying once or twice a day after barrier has formed.