CryoPen (Carlisle)

Cryotherapy, sometimes known as cold therapy, is the use of very low temperatures in medical therapy.

The CryoPen® targets skin imperfections with a very precise jet of nitrous oxide (-127°C). The nitrous oxide freezes the intercellular fluid, rupturing the membrane and destroying the undesired cells. Because the clinician is able to work with millimetre precision, there is no collateral damage to the surrounding tissue.

There are three main stages during the treatment:

1. First Freeze Cycle: The applicator is held as close as possible to the skin imperfection and is moved towards and away from it very quickly. Depending on the size and depth of the targeted tissue, this process can take between 1-30 seconds.
2. Thaw: After the first freeze cycle, the tissue is allowed to thaw for approximately 30 seconds.
3. Second Freeze Cycle: The second freeze cycle will then begin. This time, the tissue will freeze faster (at a rate of approximately 1mm / 5s) and the undesired cells will be fully destroyed.

The treatment itself is relatively painless, with most patients reporting an anaesthetic effect from the extreme cold temperature. You might however, experience a very mild discomfort that feels similar to a stinging nettle. This sensation can reoccur for a few minutes after the procedure is finished, and may be accompanied by slight itchiness in the treated area.

The duration of the treatment will depend on the size and thickness of the targeted tissue. Cryopen® freezes at an approximate rate of 1mm per 5 seconds, with a maximum freezing depth of 3-6mm. As such, the treatment time usually varies between 1-30 seconds.

During the procedure, the targeted area will freeze and turn white. After thawing, flushing will occur and a red weal will form.

Approximately 2-24 hours after the treatment, a crust should form over the treated area. This will dissipate after about 10-14 days, revealing new skin cells that can appear pinkish or lighter in colour. The new skin cells will return to their normal colour after a few weeks.

For larger and deeper procedures, a second crust may form, slightly increasing the healing time. Treatments on certain parts of the body, such as the legs, can also lengthen the healing process.

Although it is generally best to try to leave the treated area uncovered, if the treatment is performed on an area that is prone to rubbing or aggravation, a plaster or a simple dressing may be applied.

In very rare cases, some light scarring may be visible. To help avoid this, please remember to not pick at the crust that will form over the treatment area.

The CryoPen® procedure is non-invasive and is considered low risk. Side effects are rare, but a few that might occur include:

• Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) may occur temporarily in the treated area. Pigment changes tend to be more common in darker skin types.
• You might experience a temporary loss of sensation in the treated area.
• A blister might form in the treated area which can take several days to dissolve.

If you have any concerns, please ask us during your consultation.

For most skin conditions, the results will be permanent. During your consultation, we will talk you through the results you can expect.

There are generally no limitations to activities, as long as you protect the treated area from any damage or abrasion. Swimming and showering is also not a problem.

Yes. CryoPen® is clinically proven and cleared by both the FDA and CE - a status attributed to only the most effective products.

CryoPen® is generally suitable for everyone (18+). However, darker skin types tend to be more prone to pigmentation side effects, so if you have dark skin and are concerned about this possibility, CryoPen® might not be your best option.

We carry out a full assessment before your treatment can begin, so if CryoPen® is not for you, we can discuss alternative solutions.

Yes. At your consultation we can organise a payment plan that suits you.