CryoPen in Kent

CryoPen freezes small, superficial skin lesions. We commonly treat skin tags, milia (small white bumps) and cherry angiomas (small red spots). Other small lesions may be suitable after assessment, depending on their type, size and where they are on the body. If a mark is not suitable for freezing, we tell you why and what we suggest instead.

Freezing destroys the tissue, so nothing is left to send for testing afterwards. That means a mark must be checked carefully before it is treated. Marina, an NMC-registered nurse, assesses every lesion herself. She asks about your concern, medical history and medicines, then examines the mark and the skin around it before you decide together on a plan.

We do not freeze it. If a mark needs a closer look, we ask you to see your GP for a medical assessment instead. Please tell us if a mark has changed, grown or bled so we can check it first. For a mole that has changed size, shape or colour, or is itchy, bleeding or crusty, see your GP, whether or not you plan to have treatment with us.

Most people feel a short cold or stinging sensation while the freeze is applied, which usually lasts only seconds. How it feels varies with the size of the lesion and where it is. The treatment itself is usually quick, and it involves no cutting or injections.

The treated spot usually goes red and may swell, blister or crust as it heals. A blister can sometimes fill with blood, which is harmless. A scab then forms and usually falls off within a few weeks; healing can be slower on the legs. You leave with personalised aftercare advice for your treatment.

The treated skin can heal lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. This is more likely in darker skin and can be permanent. Scarring is uncommon, and infection is rare. Picking the scab raises the risk of a mark. Occasionally a lesion does not clear fully or comes back. We go through the risks that apply to you before you decide.

Some lesions clear after one treatment, while others need a repeat freeze to clear fully. We explain what is likely for your lesion at your assessment.

CryoPen treatment is £70 for skin tags, milia, cherry angiomas and other suitable small lesions. Suitability is confirmed at your nurse-led consultation, and we explain the price for your treatment before you confirm.

Usually not. Skin tags are common, harmless and do not need removing unless they bother you, for example by catching on clothing or jewellery. The NHS does not remove them for cosmetic reasons. Please do not try to remove one yourself, as this can cause bleeding, infection or scarring. See your GP if a skin tag grows, becomes painful or bleeds.