From the Guidelines
Redness around the skin after cryotherapy is a normal and expected side effect, caused by the freezing and destruction of targeted tissue, which triggers the body's natural healing process, including temporary inflammation and increased blood flow to the area. This is supported by a study published in 2016 1, which notes that immediate reactions to cryotherapy can include erythema, swelling, and burning pain. To manage this, several steps can be taken:
- Apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes several times daily to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to help with pain and swelling, following package directions for dosing
- Keep the area clean by gently washing with mild soap and water, then apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to protect the healing skin
- Avoid picking at any blisters or scabs that form The redness typically resolves within 1-2 weeks as the skin heals. If the redness spreads significantly, becomes increasingly painful, shows signs of infection (increased warmth, pus, or red streaking), or doesn't improve after two weeks, it is essential to contact a healthcare provider. While other studies discuss various treatments and management strategies for conditions like actinic keratosis 1 and cutaneous warts 1, the most relevant information regarding the cause of redness after cryotherapy is found in the 2016 study 1.
From the Research
Causes of Surrounding Skin Redness after Cryotherapy
- The exact cause of surrounding skin redness after cryotherapy is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it can be inferred that it is related to the body's reaction to the freezing temperatures used in the treatment 2.
- According to a study published in 2015, frozen tissue reacts with peripheral erythema immediately after thawing, followed by edema, bulla formation, exudation, and mumification 2.
- Another study published in 1983 mentions that reactions to cryotherapy can vary widely, including hemorrhage, infection, and granuloma pyogenicum, but does not specifically address surrounding skin redness 3.
- A study published in 2007 discusses the practical applications of cryotherapy, but does not provide information on the causes of surrounding skin redness 4.
- Studies published in 2021 and 2014 focus on the use of cryotherapy in exercise recovery and inflammatory rheumatic diseases, respectively, and do not provide relevant information on the causes of surrounding skin redness after cryotherapy 5, 6.