Cryotherapy vs. Other Lesion Removal Methods: Which One Wins?

Skin lesions come in many forms, from harmless yet bothersome skin tags to cosmetic nuisances like cherry angiomas, warts, and age spots. While these types of lesions are typically benign, they can often be frustrating, both aesthetically and physically. Fortunately, modern aesthetics offers several safe and effective removal options.

One of the most popular approaches at Opalesce Skin Clinic is cryotherapy, a minimally invasive, highly targeted method that freezes and destroys lesions with precision. But how does cryotherapy compare to other common removal techniques, such as electrocautery, surgical excision, or laser therapy? Let’s explore the options, and why cryotherapy is often a top choice.

What is Cryotherapy and How Does It Work?

Cryotherapy is the process of using extreme cold to destroy abnormal or unwanted tissue. In aesthetics, we use liquid nitrogen or nitrous oxide to freeze skin lesions, causing their cells to rapidly cool, crystallise, and break down. This disrupts the lesion’s structure at a cellular level, prompting the body to shed or reabsorb the treated area as part of its natural healing process.

The beauty of cryotherapy lies in its precision. The freezing agent can be applied directly to the lesion without affecting the surrounding skin, reducing the risk of scarring or post-inflammatory changes. The treatment itself is quick, typically lasting only seconds, and most clients experience minimal discomfort, often described as a brief stinging or tingling sensation.

Common Lesions Treated with Cryotherapy

At Opalesce, we use cryotherapy to treat a variety of benign skin lesions, including:

• Skin tags

• Seborrhoeic keratoses

• Warts

• Cherry angiomas

• Age spots or sun spots

The effectiveness of cryotherapy depends on the type, size, and location of the lesion, which is why a detailed consultation is always the first step in determining suitability.

How Does Cryotherapy Compare to Other Removal Techniques?

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision involves cutting the lesion out with a scalpel, followed by suturing. While it’s highly effective, particularly for larger lesions or those that require biopsy, it’s also the most invasive option. Excision often comes with a longer healing time, higher risk of scarring, and requires local anaesthesia.

Cryotherapy, by contrast, is non-invasive and requires no stitches or cutting, making it preferable for smaller or purely cosmetic concerns.

Electrocautery

Electrocautery uses heat generated by electric current to burn away lesions. It can be precise and effective, particularly for skin tags and warts, but some patients find the process more uncomfortable than cryotherapy. It may also carry a slightly higher risk of pigment changes in certain skin types.

Cryotherapy offers a cooler alternative - literally. While electrocautery burns the tissue, cryotherapy freezes it, often resulting in a faster, more comfortable recovery.

Laser Removal

Laser treatments work by targeting pigment or water within the lesion, breaking it down using focused light. Lasers can be especially effective for vascular lesions or pigmented spots but may require multiple sessions and are not always suitable for all skin tones.

Cryotherapy is generally faster and more cost-effective for many lesion types and doesn't rely on pigment targeting, making it suitable for a broader range of skin types.

To learn more about the skin concerns and conditions we treat at Opalesce Skin Clinic, visit our Skin Concerns page.

What Can You Expect from Cryotherapy at Opalesce?

Following cryotherapy, the treated lesion typically darkens and forms a small scab or crust over the following days. This then falls away naturally as the skin heals underneath. The area should be kept clean, dry, and protected from sun exposure during the healing process. Most clients experience minimal downtime, and the skin usually returns to normal within 7–14 days.

While one treatment is often enough, certain lesions (especially thicker ones) may require follow-up sessions for optimal results. This will be discussed in your personalised care plan during your consultation.

Why Choose Cryotherapy?

At Opalesce, we favour cryotherapy for its efficiency, precision, and minimal downtime. It allows us to treat unwanted lesions quickly, safely, and with a high degree of control, often in a single appointment. Best of all, it’s a walk-in, walk-out treatment that fits easily into busy lifestyles.

Of course, choosing the right lesion removal method is never a one-size-fits-all decision. Our team takes into account the lesion type, location, and your personal skin history to ensure the safest and most effective outcome. You can learn more about our philosophy and clinical expertise on our About page.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you’re ready to say goodbye to a stubborn skin tag, age spot, or cosmetic lesion that’s been bothering you, cryotherapy could be the simple, effective solution you’ve been looking for. To find out whether this treatment is right for you, book your consultation online and let our experienced team at Opalesce Skin Clinic guide you toward clear, confident skin.