What if cryotherapy was the solution to permanently get rid of warts? Here’s an overview of this technique to understand how it works and when it should be used.
How does liquid nitrogen treatment work against warts?
The treatment of warts by cryotherapy involves necrosing the wart with liquid nitrogen. This causes a second-degree burn, resulting in targeted cellular destruction. Indeed, warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Liquid nitrogen treatment does not eliminate the virus but destroys the keratinocytes infected by the virus.
Note: check out our dedicated article on warts, how to identify them, and the various treatments available.
When is cryotherapy the most suitable treatment for removing a wart?
Before performing cryotherapy, the specialist (a dermatologist or podiatrist depending on the wart’s location) will make an accurate diagnosis. This treatment is indicated for plantar warts, common warts on the hands, and certain flat warts. Cryotherapy is recommended when other treatments have not been effective. This liquid nitrogen method is painful during and after application and can leave residual scars. It is rarely recommended for young children, especially since anesthetic creams are not very effective against the pain caused by the cold. Additionally, cryotherapy is contraindicated for warts around a nail, as the treatment can cause nail dystrophies (nail deformities).
How long does it take for a wart treated with liquid nitrogen to disappear?
Each person reacts differently depending on the size of the wart and how long the lesion has been present. In some cases, a single cryotherapy session may be sufficient, while in more persistent cases, at least ten sessions may be required. The application time of liquid nitrogen on the wart itself can range from 5 to 30 seconds depending on the type of lesion. A 15-day interval is usually recommended between cryotherapy treatments.
How should a wart be cared for after liquid nitrogen treatment?
No special care is required after cryotherapy. However, avoid scratching the lesions, and if a blister forms, do not puncture it. If the treated skin area is exposed to the sun, it is recommended to apply sunscreen to reduce the risk of scarring.
How can you tell if a wart is dead after treatment?
The treatment is considered complete when the wart site no longer shows black dots (the wart’s blood vessels) and the lesion area starts to look like normal skin again. When warts are located on the fingers, palms, or soles, the reappearance of fingerprints is also a sign of healing.
Can you burn off a wart yourself, or should you see a doctor?
Before treating a wart, you must first make sure the lesion is indeed a wart. It is recommended to consult a specialist before beginning any treatment.
Difference between over-the-counter freezing treatments and specialist cryotherapy
Over-the-counter freezing treatments available in pharmacies differ from cryotherapy performed by a specialist. These OTC treatments do not contain liquid nitrogen and typically reach temperatures no lower than -50°C to -80°C. They may be effective on recent or shallow warts. Specialist cryotherapy, on the other hand, freezes the wart at temperatures as low as -190°C, making it significantly more effective.
Recommendations for over-the-counter freezing treatments
These treatments are recommended for small common warts that do not show signs of inflammation (redness or swelling). During application, care must be taken to precisely target the wart and avoid contact with healthy surrounding skin to prevent irritation.
