Skin tags are common, small, benign growths of skin that often appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. Cryotherapy, a method that uses extreme cold, typically liquid nitrogen, is a common and effective procedure for removing these growths. This process freezes the tissue, damaging cells and stopping blood flow to the tag, causing it to detach from the skin.
Right After the Procedure
Following cryotherapy, the treated skin tag and surrounding area will undergo noticeable changes. The skin tag will turn white or grayish-white, indicating the tissue has been adequately exposed to the cold temperature.
Within minutes to hours, the area around the frozen skin tag may develop redness and some swelling. Some individuals may also experience a stinging, itching, or burning sensation, similar to a minor frostbite, which usually subsides within 10 to 20 minutes.
The Healing Process
Over the next few days, the treated skin tag’s appearance will continue to change. Within 24 hours, a blister, which can be clear or sometimes a blood blister, may form at the site. This blister is a normal part of the body’s response to freezing and indicates the destruction of the skin tag tissue.
The blister will dry out and flatten over 1 to 7 days. As it dries, the skin tag will begin to darken, often turning black or a very dark brown, signifying that the tissue is dying. This darkened, dried skin tag will then form a scab, which protects the new skin forming underneath.
The darkened skin tag, now a scab, will detach and fall off. This occurs within 7 to 14 days after the cryotherapy procedure, though larger skin tags may take up to three weeks. Once the scab falls away, the underlying skin will appear pink and fresh. This new skin will gradually re-pigment to match the surrounding skin color over the following weeks.
Caring for the Treated Area
Care for the treated area is important to ensure optimal healing and minimize complications. Keep the area clean and dry. Gentle washing with mild, fragrance-free soap and water can begin the day after the procedure, followed by patting the area dry.
Applying petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or Aquaphor to the treated site once or twice daily promotes healing and prevents crusting. Avoid picking, scratching, or rubbing the scab, as this can delay healing and potentially lead to scarring or infection. While a bandage is not always necessary, one can be used if desired or if there is any weeping from the area.
Contact a healthcare provider if signs appear, such as excessive redness or swelling extending beyond the treated area, increasing pain, pus, a bad smell, or bleeding that does not stop after applying firm pressure for 15 minutes. If the skin tag has not fallen off or the area has not healed completely after several weeks (typically 3 to 6 weeks), seek further medical advice.