What to expect from cryotherapy for seborrheic keratosis

The clinician checks the growth and applies cold spray or a freezing probe for a brief period. You may notice a sharp cold sensation, stinging and later soreness. The area can look red or swollen immediately. Within the next few days, a blister or dry crust may appear as the frozen surface separates from the living skin beneath.

Seborrheic keratoses are often described as stuck-on growths, but a changing, bleeding or unusual lesion should be assessed before removal. Cryotherapy does not provide a tissue sample in the same way as a shave or surgical removal, so ask how the diagnosis was established when the appearance is uncertain. Colour changes can remain after healing, especially in naturally darker skin.

Follow the clinic’s instructions for washing and covering the site. Keep your hands off the crust and do not deliberately pop a blister. If it opens, wash gently, pat dry and use the advised dressing. Protect the area from rubbing and sun exposure while it heals; once the surface has closed, sunscreen can help limit further darkening. Avoid applying acids, scrubs or cosmetic products unless the clinician says they are suitable.

Call the clinic if discomfort becomes stronger after it had been improving, redness expands beyond the treated area, or the wound develops increasing warmth, pus or an unpleasant smell. Get prompt medical advice for fever, red streaking or significant swelling. A lesion that continues to bleed, changes in a new way or fails to heal needs reassessment rather than repeated self-treatment.

Ask how confident the clinician is in the diagnosis, whether a sample is needed, how long the crust may last, and what colour change might occur in your skin type. Clarify the dressing plan and the point at which a slow-healing area should be reviewed.