Cryotherapy in dermatology
Cryotherapy has been used for decades to treat appropriate benign lesions with predictable tissue responses.
Source: Dermatology cryotherapy literature
CryoPen Treatment
A precise cryotherapy treatment used to safely target benign skin lesions with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.
What this treatment helps with
Designed for the precise removal of selected benign skin spots under clinical guidance.
How it works
CryoPen delivers a focused flow of cold to quickly freeze and destroy targeted tissue while protecting nearby skin.
- Uses highly targeted cryotherapy to treat specific spots.
- Limits damage to surrounding skin through controlled application.
- Suitable for appropriate benign lesions assessed by a clinician.
- Quick in-clinic procedure with minimal preparation.
Expected Results & Evidence
Cryotherapy is widely used in dermatology for selected benign lesions and is supported by long-standing clinical practice.
Who This Treatment May Suit
- Appropriate benign lesions such as certain sun spots or age-related spots, assessed by a clinician.
- Patients seeking a targeted, non-surgical approach for selected spots.
When Treatment May Not Be Suitable
- Suspicious or changing lesions that require medical or specialist assessment.
- History of poor wound healing or keloid scarring in the area.
- Very dark skin types where pigment change risk is high (requires careful assessment).
Treatment Experience
A quick in-clinic procedure with brief stinging or cold sensation on the treated spot.
Duration
15 mins
Pain scale
2–4/10 (brief, localised)
Steps
- Assessment of the lesion and confirmation that it is suitable for cryotherapy.
- Cleaning and preparation of the area.
- Short bursts of targeted cold application with CryoPen.
- Post-treatment care advice for healing.
Risks & Side Effects
Cryotherapy intentionally freezes a selected benign lesion. The lesion must be suitable for cosmetic treatment before freezing.
Common temporary effects
- Stinging, redness, swelling, blistering and formation of a scab.
Less common risks
- Infection, delayed healing, scarring, hair loss at the site, or temporary or persistent pigment change.
Contact the clinic for increasing pain, spreading redness, discharge or delayed healing. Seek medical assessment for any lesion that changes or remains diagnostically uncertain.
Downtime & Aftercare
Treated spots may blister, darken or form a small scab before settling over days to weeks.
Onset of results
Lesions gradually reduce or shed as the area heals.
Duration of results
Usually long-lasting for treated spots; occasional repeat may be required.
Typical downtime
Localised changes at the treated site for 7–14 days on average.
Aftercare tips
- Keep the area clean and dry; do not pick at scabs.
- Protect the area from friction and sun exposure.
- Use sunscreen once the surface is intact.
- Contact the clinic if you notice unexpected changes.
Your Consultation & Treatment Pathway
- We begin with your concerns, medical and skin history, current products or treatments, and the outcome you are hoping to achieve.
- Your practitioner assesses suitability, explains reasonable options and alternatives, and confirms whether treatment should proceed.
- Before treatment, you receive an individual plan covering expected benefits, limitations, risks, likely downtime and cost.
- Aftercare and review are tailored to the procedure and your response; contact the clinic if recovery differs from the guidance provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions might I need?
Some lesions respond to one session; others need review or repeat treatment. Size, depth, location and diagnosis affect the plan.
What should I expect after treatment?
A blister or scab may form. Protect the area and allow it to separate naturally rather than picking it.
How is suitability decided?
Your practitioner reviews the treatment area, skin condition, health history, medicines, recent procedures and goals before confirming a plan.
Ready to start your treatment journey?
Book a consultation to explore personalised options with our clinical team.
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Looking for more guidance? Read our skin health articles.