Everything you need to know about cosmetic cryotherapy — from how it works to what to expect on the day.
Cosmetic cryotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) to freeze and destroy unwanted skin lesions such as skin tags, warts, verrucas, age spots and cherry angiomas.
A precision pen-like device delivers a fine jet of Nitrous Oxide directly onto the lesion for a few seconds. The extreme cold destroys the targeted tissue while leaving surrounding skin unharmed. Over the following days to weeks, the treated area forms a small scab which falls away naturally, revealing clear skin underneath.
Unlike surgical methods, there are no cuts, no stitches and no anaesthetic required. Most treatments take just a few minutes.
Most clients describe the sensation as a brief cold sting that lasts only a few seconds — similar to holding an ice cube against the skin. It is not the same as a surgical procedure and does not require anaesthetic.
Any discomfort is short-lived. After treatment, the area may feel slightly warm or tender for an hour or two, similar to a mild sunburn. Many clients say it was far less uncomfortable than they expected.
Many skin concerns, such as small skin tags and cherry angiomas, are resolved in just one session. The treated lesion typically darkens, scabs and falls away within one to two weeks.
Larger or more stubborn conditions — particularly warts and verrucas — may require two to four sessions spaced two to three weeks apart. During your free consultation, we will give you an honest estimate based on the size, location and type of lesion.
Immediately after treatment the area may appear red or slightly swollen — this is a normal response and settles quickly. Over the following days:
Days 1–3: A small blister or darkened area may form. This is the body's natural healing response as the frozen tissue breaks down.
Days 3–14: A dry scab develops. It is important not to pick or scratch the area — let it fall away naturally for the best cosmetic result.
Weeks 2–6: The area heals to reveal smooth, clear skin. Healing time depends on the size and depth of the original lesion. We provide full aftercare instructions and are always available if you have questions.
While there are home remedies and over-the-counter products marketed for skin tag removal, they carry significant risks including infection, scarring and incomplete removal. Tying off skin tags with thread or using nail clippers is particularly dangerous and can lead to bleeding and infection.
Professional cryotherapy is the safest and most effective option. A trained practitioner can ensure the skin tag is fully removed with minimal scarring and no risk of infection. The treatment takes seconds, and the result is a clean, even healing process.
If cost is a concern, our free consultation allows you to discuss your options with no obligation.
Warts and verrucas are both caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), but they appear in different locations:
Common warts are raised, rough growths that typically appear on the hands, fingers and knees. They often have a cauliflower-like texture and may show tiny dark dots (thrombosed capillaries).
Verrucas (plantar warts) grow on the soles of the feet. Because of the pressure from walking, they tend to grow inward and can feel like standing on a small stone. They often have a flat appearance with a hard edge.
Both respond well to cryotherapy, though verrucas may need more sessions because the skin on the feet is thicker. Over-the-counter treatments often fail to reach the root of the virus, which is why professional treatment is more effective.
GP surgeries in the UK no longer offer removal of skin tags, warts and other benign skin lesions on the NHS. This is because these conditions are typically harmless and classified as cosmetic rather than medically necessary.
This can be frustrating, especially when a skin tag is catching on clothing, causing irritation, or affecting your confidence. The good news is that specialist clinics like ours offer fast, affordable treatment using the same clinical-grade equipment.
A free consultation will confirm whether cryotherapy is suitable for your particular concern.
Cherry angiomas are small, bright red spots made up of clusters of tiny blood vessels (capillaries). They are extremely common — most adults develop at least a few by middle age.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but they are linked to ageing, genetics and hormonal changes. They are completely benign and do not become cancerous.
There is no proven way to prevent them, but they are easily and quickly removed with cryotherapy — often in a single session lasting just seconds. The treated spot forms a tiny scab and heals within one to two weeks.
Age spots (also called sun spots or solar lentigines) are flat, brown or dark patches caused by years of sun exposure. UV light accelerates melanin production, and over time this pigment accumulates in concentrated areas — typically the face, hands, arms and shoulders.
While they are harmless, many people find them cosmetically bothersome. Cryotherapy is one of the most effective methods for removing age spots. The targeted freezing breaks down the concentrated pigment, which darkens and then flakes away over the following weeks to reveal a more even skin tone.
To help prevent new age spots, daily SPF 30+ sunscreen is recommended, even on cloudy days.
Consultations are always free and no-obligation. Treatment pricing depends on the type, size and number of lesions:
Standard treatments (skin tags, cherry angiomas, milia, age spots, small moles) start from £95 per session.
Extended treatments (warts, verrucas, larger lesions requiring longer sessions) start from £150 per session.
We will always give you a clear price before any treatment begins — no hidden costs, no surprises. Contact us or message on WhatsApp for a personalised quote.
Cosmetic cryotherapy is a well-established, low-risk treatment that has been used safely for decades. When performed by a trained practitioner using clinical-grade equipment, complications are rare.
Normal side effects include temporary redness, mild swelling, blistering or scabbing at the treatment site — all part of the natural healing process. In some cases, treated skin may temporarily appear lighter or darker than surrounding skin, but this usually resolves over time.
We carry full professional insurance and every treatment is preceded by a thorough assessment. If cryotherapy is not suitable for your particular concern, we will tell you honestly.
The NHS considers skin tags, warts and most benign skin lesions to be cosmetic concerns, meaning they are no longer routinely treated in GP surgeries. Waiting lists for dermatology referrals can be months long and are typically reserved for medically necessary cases.
Private cosmetic cryotherapy offers a fast, convenient alternative. You can book a free consultation, receive an honest assessment, and in many cases have the treatment completed on the same day. There are no long waits, no referrals, and the environment is designed to be welcoming and discreet.
Prices start from just £95 — making professional treatment accessible and affordable.
Still have questions? We're always happy to help — no question is too small.
Ask Us AnythingBook a free consultation to discuss your treatment. We'll assess your skin, explain the process, and give you an honest recommendation. Treatments start from just £95.