What it is
Cryotherapy is a general term for treatment using cold. In the wart world, it usually refers to a clinician applying a very cold substance, most often liquid nitrogen, to a wart for a short time. The goal is to damage the wart tissue so the skin can gradually shed it.
Warts are common skin growths linked to human papillomavirus (HPV). Many people feel embarrassed about them, but they are a very ordinary reason to see a provider, and there is nothing to be ashamed of.
Over-the-counter freezing kits also exist. They are generally less cold than what a clinician uses. If you are considering one, ask a pharmacist or provider about it first, and do not use wart products on your face or genital area.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Freezing has long been a familiar option in dermatology and podiatry offices for warts on the hands and feet. A clinician typically applies the cold with a spray device or a swab, and the area may blister, scab or peel afterward as the skin heals.
Because one session does not always settle things, providers have traditionally scheduled follow-up visits to check progress. How many visits, and what comes next, is decided by the clinician after an exam, not by a general web page.
Freezing is one of several approaches. Others include salicylic acid and other topical products, in-office agents such as cantharidin, laser, minor surgical removal and immunotherapy. Each has tradeoffs, and no approach is a guaranteed fix. Ask a provider about the current FDA status of any specific prescription product.
How the right provider may help
The right provider, such as a dermatologist, podiatrist, primary care clinician or sexual-health provider, may first confirm that the growth is actually a wart. This matters because other skin conditions, including skin cancer, can look similar, and only a trained clinician can tell the difference.
A visit generally includes a look at the spot, questions about your health history and a conversation about options. You might ask: Is freezing a good fit for this spot? What might it feel like, and how should I care for the area afterward? What signs mean I should call you? What are the alternatives, and what happens if the wart comes back?
Mention it if you have diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system, since those can affect how a provider approaches treatment, especially on the feet. A provider can also talk with you about HPV vaccination, which exists and is worth discussing with a clinician.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Visible skin concerns can bring self-consciousness or worry, and stress can sometimes make people feel worse about how their body looks or feels. Treating yourself kindly while you seek care is part of a whole-person view.
If the emotional side feels heavy, body-based support such as Somatic Experiences may appeal to some people, and talk therapy through Therapists.plus is another option for working through embarrassment or stress. These are complements to, not replacements for, a medical exam.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: anxiety panic and ocd →
Keep in mind
- Any growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer, and should not be self-treated. The ABCDEs of melanoma are only a general guide, not a way to diagnose yourself.
- Never cut, burn or dig out a growth at home, and do not use over-the-counter wart products on the face or genital area.
- Results vary, no treatment is guaranteed to cure warts or HPV or prevent recurrence, and warts can come back.
- Licensed professionals should guide your care; for emergencies call 911, and in a crisis call or text 988.
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Frequently asked questions
What is cryotherapy for warts?
Cryotherapy for warts is a treatment in which a clinician freezes a wart, usually with liquid nitrogen, so the body may gradually clear the treated tissue. It is commonly done in a dermatology, podiatry or primary care office. Whether it suits you is a decision for a licensed clinician after an exam.
Does cryotherapy for warts hurt?
Many people feel stinging, burning or discomfort during and shortly after freezing, and sensitivity varies from person to person. The area may also blister or become tender afterward. Ask your provider what to expect and how to care for the spot.
Does freezing a wart cure it?
No treatment can be promised to cure a wart or HPV. Freezing may help the body clear a wart, but results vary, more than one visit is sometimes discussed, and warts can return. A provider can talk with you about realistic expectations.
Can I do cryotherapy for warts at home?
Over-the-counter freezing products exist, but they should be used only as directed on the label, and not on the face or genital area. People with diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system should ask a provider before treating warts at home, especially on the feet. Never cut or burn a growth yourself.
Who performs cryotherapy for warts?
Dermatologists, podiatrists and some primary care or sexual-health clinicians may offer it. Availability depends on the provider. You can use Providers.plus to look for licensed providers and ask them directly.
When should I see a doctor about a growth I think is a wart?
See a licensed clinician if you are unsure what a growth is, if it is painful or spreading, or if it is in a sensitive area. A growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer. Do not self-treat it.
Educational resource. Warts.ai shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.