Do guides on string tension already account for tension loss?

In my experience, when using an app that can measure string tension, my tension will drop from 27lbs when freshly strung to ~25 lbs the next day and gradually settled in the 23-24lbs range after a week. And this is pretty consistent with any string/stringer/machine (have tried many). Yes you can pre-stretch but 99% of people don’t do that.

With that in mind, I have heard that it’s reasonable intermediate males should use ~26lbs. Does it mean string it at 30lbs so it gradually settled at 25-26lbs after a week? Or does it mean string at 26lbs so it settled at 22-23lbs after a week?