Cryotherapy for Skin Tag Removal: The Freeze-and-Release Method
At Harmony Medical, we offer cryotherapy as an effective, quick, and minimally invasive method for removing skin tags. Let’s explore how this “freeze-and-release” technique works to give you smoother, tag-free skin.
What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy, which literally means “cold therapy,” is a medical technique that uses extreme cold to treat various skin conditions, including skin tags. For skin tag removal, we use a precise, targeted form of cryotherapy.
The Science Behind Cryotherapy for Skin Tags
1. The Freeze Effect
- We apply liquid nitrogen to the skin tag using a precision applicator.
- This super-cold liquid rapidly freezes the skin tag and a small area of surrounding skin.
- The temperature can drop to about -196°C (-320.8°F), effectively crystallizing the water in the skin tag’s cells.
2. Cellular Disruption
- The rapid freezing causes the water inside the skin tag’s cells to expand.
- This expansion leads to cell membrane rupture and destruction of the skin tag’s tissue structure.
3. Inflammation and Healing
- Your body recognizes the frozen area as damaged tissue.
- It initiates an inflammatory response, sending blood and healing factors to the area.
- This process helps to break down and remove the damaged skin tag tissue.
4. Natural Shedding
- Over the next few days to weeks, the frozen skin tag will darken and form a scab.
- Eventually, it will fall off naturally, leaving behind fresh, new skin.
The Cryotherapy Procedure: Step by Step
- Preparation: We clean the area around the skin tag.
- Protection: Surrounding healthy skin is protected if necessary.
- Application: Liquid nitrogen is applied precisely to the skin tag using a specialized tool.
- Freezing: The skin tag is frozen for a few seconds, depending on its size.
- Thawing: The area is allowed to thaw naturally.
- Repeat: For larger tags, we might repeat the freeze-thaw cycle.
Benefits of Cryotherapy for Skin Tag Removal
- Quick and Efficient: The procedure itself takes only a few minutes.
- Minimally Invasive: No cutting or extensive wound care required.
- Low Risk: Minimal risk of infection or scarring when performed by our experts.
- Versatile: Effective on skin tags of various sizes and locations.
What to Expect After Treatment
- The treated area may be red and swollen for a short time.
- A blister may form and then scab over.
- The skin tag will darken and fall off within 1-2 weeks.
- New, healthy skin will form in its place.
Why Choose Harmony Medical for Cryotherapy?
At Harmony Medical, our experienced practitioners use advanced cryotherapy techniques to ensure:
- Precise application for optimal results
- Minimal damage to surrounding healthy skin
- Comfortable and quick treatments
- Expert aftercare advice for speedy healing
Cryotherapy at Harmony Medical offers a safe, effective solution for skin tag removal, helping you achieve smoother, clearer skin with minimal downtime.