Cryotherapy – Freezing the Skin Treatment for Lesions

How does cryotherapy for skin lesions work?

Cryotherapy has been a trusted treatment for skin lesions for many years. It is particularly effective for the treatment of benign skin lesions that involve the surface layers of the skin (the epidermis). The freezing process damages the lesion, allowing the skin cells underneath (the basal cell layer) to regenerate and produce healthy skin. 

When is cryotherapy (freezing) used?

At Laser and Skin, we use cryotherapy for skin lesions in Sussex clinics to treat various conditions, including:

– Viral warts

– Seborrhoeic keratoses

– Solar keratosis

– Bowen’s Disease

– Certain types of skin cancers (in select cases)

This treatment is highly effective for these conditions. 

Cryotherapy Procedure for Skin Lesions: How long does it take?

Liquid nitrogen is extremely cold, and the cryotherapy procedure for skin lesions typically lasts just a few seconds. The duration depends on the lesion’s type and thickness:

– Superficial solar keratoses: 5 seconds

– Viral warts: 15 seconds

What Side Effects can Typically Occur After Cryotherapy for Skin Conditions?

Pain

– During cryotherapy for skin spots, you will normally experience soreness and a stinging sensation during treatment, and particularly as the skin thaws. The treated area may be sore for 2-3 days following treatment.

Swelling and Discomfort

– After cryosurgery for skin lesions, the treated area normally swells for 2-3 days. A scab or crust may form, which typically falls off after 10-14 days. Healing may take longer on the lower legs due to slower wound recovery.

Blister formation

– Blistering can develop following cryotherapy for benign skin lesions and may contain either clear fluid or become a blood-blister. If painful, the blister roof can be punctured with a sterile needle, though it is best to leave the skin intact when possible. This process can be repeated until it no longer refills.

Infection

– While rare, infection can occur after cryosurgery for common skin conditions. If the wound becomes especially red, sore or weeps yellow fluid/pus after several days, seek medical advice with your practice nurse at Laser and Skin Clinics in Brighton, Hove or Worthing. Your GP will prescribe antibiotics if infection is suspected.

Scarring

– In some cases, scarring is unavoidable with cryo for skin lesions. These scars are usually white and may sometimes appear depressed. Rarely, raised keloid or hypertrophic scars may develop, especially in high-risk areas such as the chest or upper back.

Discolouration

– Cryotherapy may affect skin pigmentation, leading to:

– Hypopigmentation (lighter patches)

– Hyperpigmentation (darker patches), particularly in those with darker skin tones

Increased pigmentation typically fades within 3-4 months, although, in rare cases, pigment changes may be permanent.

Expert Cryotherapy for Skin Lesions in Brighton, Worthing & Hove

For the best cryotherapy treatment of benign skin lesions in Brighton, Worthing and Hove, get in touch with Laser and Skin Clinics today.