Long time, i'd say 3-6 mo. keep it dry, and once you enter a stage where it's sealed well apply an oil several times a day -this will step it up a lil'. I recommend st. johnsworth in olive oil, or a good jojoba, avocado, almond, mango, something to that affect. You might lose some feeling in it for a much longer period of time or permanently though, depending on the damage.