At Skin Experts, our cryotherapy service offers a quick, non-invasive solution for treating precancerous skin lesions and certain superficial skin cancers. In Australia, where two in three people are diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70 (Cancer Council of Australia), cryotherapy is a vital tool for early intervention. Our expert dermatologists use advanced cryotherapy techniques to ensure effective treatment with minimal discomfort and excellent cosmetic results.

Why Cryotherapy Matters

Australia’s high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels, driven by our sunny climate, contribute to over 1 million skin cancer treatments annually, including 16,000 melanoma cases. Cryotherapy is an effective option for managing precancerous conditions like actinic keratoses and superficial skin cancers, preventing progression to more serious forms like squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). By addressing these lesions early, we help reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes.

How Cryotherapy Works

Liquid nitrogen is applied to the affected area, freezing the tissue at temperatures as low as -89°C. This destroys abnormal cells, causing a blister or scab that heals within 1-2 weeks, revealing healthy skin (Australian Laser).

What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery, uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells at temperatures as low as -89°C. The treated area forms a blister or scab that heals within 1-2 weeks, revealing healthy skin. This minimally invasive procedure is ideal for treating precancerous lesions and select early-stage skin cancers with high success rates and minimal scarring.

Conditions Treated with Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is suitable for:

• Actinic Keratoses (AK): Precancerous scaly or crusty growths caused by prolonged UV exposure, often on the face, scalp, lips, or hands. If untreated, AK can progress to SCC.

• Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Early-stage BCC appearing as pearly or waxy bumps, typically on sun-exposed areas.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ (Bowen’s Disease): Early SCC presenting as red, scaly patches.

• Benign Lesions: Warts, skin tags, or solar keratoses that require removal for medical or cosmetic reasons.

Signs Indicating Cryotherapy

Seek cryotherapy if you notice:

• Scaly, crusty patches on sun-exposed areas (actinic keratoses).

• Red, scaly lesions that may crust or bleed (Bowen’s disease).

• Small, pearly bumps or nodules (superficial BCC).

• Persistent sores or growths that don’t heal within 2-3 weeks.

Who Can Benefit from Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is recommended for individuals with precancerous or superficial skin lesions, especially those at higher risk of skin cancer, including:

• Prior Skin Cancer: Increases risk of developing new lesions.

• Fair Skin: Less melanin means greater UV damage risk.

• Sunburn History: Severe sunburns, especially in childhood, contribute to 95% of melanomas and other skin cancers.

• Frequent Sun Exposure: Common in Australia’s outdoor lifestyle.

• Numerous Moles or Lesions: Over 50 moles or precancerous growths.

• Immunosuppression: Weakened immune systems (e.g., organ transplant recipients).

• Age: Risk increases with age, though skin lesions can occur in younger adults.

Our Cryotherapy Process

Our cryotherapy procedure is quick, typically taking 5-10 minutes, and is performed in our state-of-the-art clinic. Here’s what to expect:

1. Consultation: We review your medical history, sun exposure, and specific lesions to confirm cryotherapy is appropriate.

2. Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied for comfort, though it’s often unnecessary.

3. Procedure: Liquid nitrogen is precisely applied to the lesion using a spray or probe, freezing abnormal cells. You may feel a brief stinging or burning sensation.

4. Post-Treatment: A blister or scab forms, healing within 1-2 weeks. Multiple sessions may be needed for larger or multiple lesions.

5. Follow-Up: We schedule a follow-up to monitor healing and assess for additional treatment if necessary.

Advanced Technology

We use precise cryotherapy equipment, such as Dermapen™ Cryotherapy, to target lesions accurately while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue (Mole Check Clinic). Our dermatologists are trained to optimize outcomes and patient comfort.

Benefits of Cryotherapy

• Minimally Invasive: No incisions or stitches required, reducing recovery time.

• Quick Procedure: Completed in 5-10 minutes, often during a single visit.

• Effective: High success rate for precancerous lesions and superficial cancers.

• Cosmetic: Minimal scarring compared to surgical options, ideal for visible areas like the face.

• Convenient: Can be performed during a skin cancer check if lesions are identified.

Limitations of Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy may not be suitable for:

• Aggressive melanomas or Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), which require surgical excision or other treatments.

• Lesions in hairy areas (e.g., eyebrows), due to potential hair loss.

• Areas with poor circulation (e.g., lower legs), due to risk of delayed healing or ulceration.

• Deep or large lesions, which may require alternative treatments like Mohs surgery.

Post-Treatment Care Guidelines

• Keep the treated area clean with saline or mild soap and water.

• Avoid picking at the blister or scab to prevent infection or scarring.

• Protect the area from sun exposure to avoid pigmentation changes.

• Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus) or excessive pain and contact us immediately if observed.

• Apply a gentle moisturizer or prescribed ointment as advised.

• Avoid strenuous activity near the treated area for 48-72 hours.

Skin Cancer Prevention Tips

Prevent new lesions and reduce skin cancer risk with the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide campaign:

• Slip on sun-protective clothing (long sleeves, pants).

• Slop on SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours.

• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.

• Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).

• Slide on UV-protective sunglasses.

Additional tips:

• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.

• Monitor the UV Index via daily weather reports to plan outdoor activities.

• Schedule regular skin checks (annually or every 6-12 months for high-risk individuals).

• Perform monthly self-examinations to detect new or changing lesions early.

Why Choose Skin Experts for Cryotherapy?

• Expert Team: Our dermatologists and General Practitioners are specially trained in cryotherapy and skin cancer management, ensuring precise and effective treatment.

• Advanced Equipment: We use state-of-the-art cryotherapy technology for optimal results and patient comfort.

• Patient-Centered Care: We prioritize your comfort, providing clear explanations and personalized aftercare.

• Collaboration with Fitzroy North Doctors: Our partnership ensures seamless, integrated care for all your health needs.

• Community Commitment: We promote skin cancer awareness through education, inspired by Australia’s SunSmart campaigns.

Prognosis with Cryotherapy

• Actinic Keratoses: Treatment prevents progression to SCC, with near-100% success for early lesions.

• Superficial BCC and SCC in Situ: High cure rates with minimal recurrence when treated early.

• Overall: Early intervention with cryotherapy significantly reduces the risk of progression to invasive skin cancers.

Book Your Cryotherapy Appointment Today

With skin cancer affecting over 1 million Australians annually, early treatment of precancerous and superficial lesions is essential. Contact Skin Experts to schedule a cryotherapy consultation or skin check to address concerns promptly. Our compassionate, expert approach ensures effective treatment and lasting skin health.

Aspect	Details
Procedure Time	5-10 minutes
Recovery Time	1-2 weeks
Conditions Treated	Actinic keratoses, superficial BCC, SCC in situ, benign lesions
Side Effects	Brief stinging, blistering, possible pigmentation changes
Not Suitable For	Melanoma, MCC, hairy areas, poor circulation zones
Prevention	Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide; regular skin checks
Contact	Book online or call Skin Experts for your appointment