From the Research
Cryotherapy is a viable treatment option for seborrheic keratosis, including those on the face, but its effectiveness and safety should be weighed against other treatment modalities, such as electrosurgery and hydrogen peroxide 40%, which may offer better cosmetic results and fewer side effects in certain cases. The procedure involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen, causing the cells to die and the growth to eventually fall off. For facial seborrheic keratosis, a gentle approach is recommended with shorter freeze times (typically 5-10 seconds) compared to lesions on the body. Multiple treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart may be necessary for complete removal. Potential side effects include temporary redness, swelling, blistering, and in some cases, hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) or hyperpigmentation (darkening), which can be more noticeable on facial skin. There's also a small risk of scarring.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of cryotherapy for seborrheic keratosis include:
- A study published in 2021 found that cryotherapy had a lower improvement rate compared to CO2 laser, Er:YAG laser, and electrodesiccation in the treatment of facial seborrheic keratosis 1.
- However, a more recent study published in 2024 found that cryotherapy was more effective than electrosurgery in the treatment of seborrheic keratosis, although electrosurgery was more effective for other skin conditions such as sebaceous hyperplasia, cherry angioma, and skin tags 2.
- Another study published in 2021 found that hydrogen peroxide 40% was a safe and effective treatment for seborrheic keratosis, particularly for facial lesions, and may be a good alternative to cryotherapy in certain cases 3.
- A review of cutaneous cryosurgery published in 2020 highlighted the safety and effectiveness of cryotherapy for a variety of skin conditions, including seborrheic keratosis, but also noted the potential for side effects such as hypopigmentation and scarring 4.
Overall, while cryotherapy can be an effective treatment for seborrheic keratosis, including those on the face, it is essential to carefully evaluate the potential benefits and risks and consider alternative treatment options to determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient.