Wart freezing, also known as cryotherapy, uses extreme cold to destroy wart tissue. This process aims to eliminate the wart, allowing healthy skin to emerge.
Understanding the Freezing Process
During cryotherapy, a healthcare professional or an at-home kit applies a freezing agent, typically liquid nitrogen, to the wart for 10 to 60 seconds. This causes the wart tissue to freeze rapidly. You may experience an immediate cold sensation, stinging, or burning, which can persist for minutes or a few days after the procedure.
Following freezing, the treated area often turns white, then may become red and swollen. A blister typically forms within hours to 24 hours. This blister indicates the freezing has damaged the wart tissue, initiating the body’s healing response. Do not pick at the blister; it will dry up and fall off naturally.
When Warts Typically Fall Off
After freezing, the wart typically begins to change, leading to its eventual detachment. The blister formed after treatment usually flattens within two to three days, and the treated area dries out, darkens, or forms a scab. This scab, along with the wart, usually falls off within 1 to 2 weeks, though this timeline can vary.
As the wart resolves, it may turn dark or black and start to peel or flake off, indicating that the dead tissue is being shed. New, healthy skin will form underneath. Allow the wart to fall off on its own to reduce the risk of scarring or spreading the virus.
Factors Affecting Treatment Time
The time for a wart to fully resolve after freezing can differ based on several factors. The size and thickness of the wart play a role, with larger or older warts requiring more treatments or a longer healing period. The location also influences the timeline; for instance, warts on the soles of the feet may take longer to heal due to pressure.
An individual’s immune response is another factor, as cryotherapy aims to stimulate the body’s immunity to fight the wart-causing virus. Some warts may require multiple treatment sessions, spaced 1 to 4 weeks apart, to achieve complete removal. The effectiveness of over-the-counter freezing products can also differ from professional liquid nitrogen treatments, which are more powerful.
Next Steps If Warts Remain
If a wart persists after initial freezing, a second round of at-home freezing may be considered. A recommended waiting period of 2-4 weeks between applications allows the skin to heal. Follow product instructions for proper re-treatment intervals.
If warts do not resolve after multiple at-home treatments, or if they grow, become painful, bleed, or if you are uncertain about the diagnosis, consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis, as some skin growths may resemble warts, and offer stronger, professional treatments if needed. They can also guide on appropriate care, particularly for warts in sensitive areas like the face or genitals, which should not be treated at home.