At Metropolis Dermatology in Pasadena, CA, we offer advanced cryotherapy solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. Our expert team ensures precision and comfort during every session to support optimal results.
What Is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy refers to the controlled use of extremely cold liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal or unwanted skin tissue. The intense cold damages the treated cells, triggering a natural shedding process that allows healthy skin to replace the old.
This technique is especially effective for superficial skin concerns and is widely used in both cosmetic and medical dermatology. It’s fast, safe, and typically requires little to no downtime, making it an ideal choice for patients looking for simple yet effective skin lesion removal.
It’s important to note that medical cryotherapy is different from over-the-counter freezing sprays. Cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery, is a clinical procedure that uses liquid nitrogen—not dry ice—to rapidly freeze and destroy targeted tissue. Unlike home treatments, medical cryotherapy is performed by professionals using advanced tools to precisely target abnormal tissue while sparing healthy surrounding skin.
What is Cryotherapy Used For?
Cryotherapy is a versatile treatment commonly used to address a variety of dermatological conditions, including:
- Warts
Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts can be effectively frozen and eliminated through cryotherapy. - Skin Tags
These benign skin growths are often removed for cosmetic reasons or because they cause irritation. - Actinic Keratoses
These rough, scaly patches of sun-damaged skin are considered precancerous and are frequently treated with cryotherapy. - Seborrheic Keratoses
A common non-cancerous skin growth that can be safely removed. - Certain Early Skin Cancers
In specific cases, cryotherapy may be used to treat superficial skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma in situ.
Cryotherapy’s key advantage lies in its ability to selectively eliminate abnormal cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. By creating ice crystals within the cells, cryotherapy induces cell death and promotes the natural shedding of treated tissue.
How Cryotherapy Works
- Cleansing & Preparation
The targeted area is cleaned and prepared. A local anesthetic may be applied depending on the location or sensitivity of the area to be treated. - Application of Liquid Nitrogen
Liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the lesion using either a precision spray device or a cotton-tipped applicator. At Metropolis Dermatology, we use advanced cryogen canisters with a fine tip to ensure precise application and avoid unnecessarily freezing the surrounding skin. - Freezing Process
The extreme cold causes the lesion to freeze almost instantly. The frozen tissue eventually undergoes controlled cell death (also called cryonecrosis). - Natural Shedding and Healing
Following treatment, the damaged tissue will form a scab or blister before falling away naturally. New, healthy skin then grows in its place over the course of several days to weeks. - Aftercare and Follow-Up
Our providers will give you customized wound care instructions to promote optimal healing and reduce the risk of infection or scarring. While temporary cold sensations and mild discomfort may occur, they typically subside quickly. Multiple sessions may be required for more persistent or deeper lesions, and regular follow-ups are encouraged.
Each cryotherapy appointment typically takes only a few minutes and is performed right in our Pasadena clinic with no need for surgery.
Why Cryotherapy is a Trusted Treatment
Cryotherapy is one of the most tried-and-true treatments in dermatology. Here are some of the top reasons patients choose it:
- Effective for Removing Unwanted Lesions
Cryotherapy can eliminate benign growths such as skin tags, warts, and seborrheic keratoses with precision and minimal trauma to surrounding skin. - Addresses Precancerous Skin Issues
It is commonly used to treat actinic keratoses and other precancerous lesions, helping reduce the risk of progression to skin cancer. - Non-Invasive, No Sutures Needed
Because cryotherapy doesn’t involve cutting the skin, it reduces the risk of bleeding and infection. - Quick Recovery Time
The healing process is generally brief and well-tolerated, with minimal disruption to your daily routine. - Targeted & Safe
Only the area being treated is frozen, preserving the integrity of the surrounding skin.
FAQs
Is cryotherapy painful?
Most patients feel a cold or tingling sensation during the application, often described as a brief sting or burn. Discomfort is usually short-lived and well-tolerated.
How long is a cryotherapy session?
Treatment is typically very quick. Most sessions are completed within 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the number and size of lesions being treated.
What are the common side effects?
Minor side effects may include redness, swelling, blistering, or temporary skin discoloration. Rarely, light scarring may occur.
Is cryotherapy right for all skin types and conditions?
While it works well for many common skin lesions, not all skin types or growths are suitable for cryotherapy. A consultation with our dermatology team will help determine the best option for your unique case.
Will I need more than one treatment?
In many cases, a single session is all that’s needed. However, for deeper or more stubborn lesions, multiple treatments spaced a few weeks apart may be recommended.
Hear from
Real Patients
Discover Smoother, Healthier Skin
If you’re looking for a fast, reliable way to treat skin lesions without the downtime of surgery, cryotherapy may be the ideal solution. Let our experienced dermatology professionals guide you through a safe and effective treatment plan.
Schedule your appointment with Metropolis Dermatology in Pasadena, CA, to learn more about how cryotherapy can refresh your skin and confidence.