Cryotherapy, the process of freezing warts, is a popular and effective method for removing common skin growths. This technique destroys wart tissue by subjecting it to extremely low temperatures, killing cells infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV). The treatment is quick, minimally invasive, and helps prevent the virus from spreading. The choice between professional treatment and an at-home kit depends on the wart’s characteristics and the desired intensity of the freezing process.
Professional Treatment Locations
Seeking professional care is the best approach for warts that are large, persistent, or located in sensitive areas. The most common entry point for basic cryotherapy is a Primary Care Physician (PCP) office, where common warts can be addressed quickly during a routine visit. These practitioners handle straightforward cases using professional-grade freezing agents.
For complicated, recurrent, or numerous warts, a Dermatologist offers specialized expertise in skin conditions. Dermatologists are best suited for treating warts on delicate areas like the face or genitals and can manage cases that have failed previous treatments. Patients with plantar warts (on the soles of their feet) may benefit from consulting a Podiatrist, who specializes in foot and ankle care.
Professionals use liquid nitrogen for cryotherapy, which operates at an extremely low temperature, typically around -320°F (-196°C). This significantly colder temperature makes the in-office procedure more potent than any at-home options. The intensity of liquid nitrogen allows for a deeper, more controlled freeze, leading to a higher rate of effectiveness, especially for thick or stubborn warts.
The Cryotherapy Process Explained
The professional cryotherapy procedure begins with the healthcare provider preparing the wart. This preparation may involve gently trimming away dead skin on the surface to ensure the freezing agent penetrates effectively. A numbing cream is sometimes applied, though it is not always necessary for the brief treatment.
The liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the wart using a specialized device, such as a spray canister, a cryoprobe, or a cotton-tipped applicator. The application lasts for a short duration, typically between 10 and 30 seconds, depending on the size and thickness of the wart. This application causes the tissue to freeze, which may be repeated in a “freeze-thaw-freeze” cycle to maximize the destruction of the infected cells.
Patients commonly experience a stinging, burning, or aching sensation during the freezing and thawing phases. Immediately afterward, the treated area becomes red and swollen, and a blister forms beneath the wart within 24 hours. This blister formation separates the dead wart tissue from the healthy skin underneath.
Over the next one to two weeks, the blister dries up, and the wart lifts and falls off with the scab. Because warts can be deep, multiple treatments spaced two to three weeks apart are often necessary to completely eliminate the growth. Follow-up appointments monitor the healing process and determine if another cycle of freezing is required.
Over-the-Counter Home Freezing Options
For small, common warts, especially on the hands, many people begin treatment with over-the-counter (OTC) home freezing kits. These kits typically use a mixture of refrigerants, such as dimethyl ether and propane or isobutane, to achieve the freezing effect. The chemicals are applied to the wart via a foam applicator tip from a pressurized canister.
A significant difference between home kits and professional treatment is the temperature achieved. OTC products are substantially warmer than liquid nitrogen, often reaching temperatures closer to -94°F (-70°C). This lower intensity means the freezing action may not penetrate as deeply or be as reliably effective, particularly on larger or more established warts.
The application process involves activating the kit’s applicator and pressing it onto the wart for a specified duration, often 20 seconds or less. While generally safe for use on common and plantar warts, these kits should not be used on sensitive areas like the face, armpits, or genitals, as they can cause burns and scarring if misused.
If a wart shows no improvement after several attempts with a home kit, or if signs of infection like increasing pain, redness, or swelling develop, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider. People with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system, should seek professional guidance before attempting self-treatment.