A skin tag that keeps snagging on clothing. A verruca that makes every step feel like a nuisance. A small bump or mark that’s harmless — but you’d rather it wasn’t there.
If you’ve got a minor skin lesion that’s irritating, rubbing, catching, or simply getting in the way, cryotherapy can be a practical treatment option — provided in-pharmacy with clear advice and support from the Amiry & Gilbride Pharmacy team.
What is cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a method of removing certain skin lesions using controlled freezing. We apply a precise jet of nitrous oxide directly to the lesion, which freezes the treated tissue. Over the following days, the area heals naturally and the targeted tissue can break down and shed.
Treatment is delivered in a private consultation room by a trained pharmacy healthcare professional, with straightforward aftercare guidance and next steps.
What can cryotherapy be used for?
Cryotherapy can be suitable for a number of common lesions, depending on the area being treated and your individual circumstances. At your appointment, we’ll assess what you’d like treated and confirm whether cryotherapy is appropriate.
Skin tags
Skin tags are very common and usually harmless, but they can be annoying — especially around the neck, underarms, torso, and anywhere they catch on jewellery or clothes. Cryotherapy offers a focused way to remove them.
Warts & verrucae
Warts and verrucae can be persistent and sometimes need more than one session. Cryotherapy treats the affected tissue directly and can be helpful if over-the-counter options haven’t worked.
Milia & cherry angiomas
Small white milia bumps and red “cherry spot” marks may be treatable with cryotherapy in some cases, depending on size, location, and suitability.
Pigmentation & age spots
Some age spots and pigmentation marks may be suitable for cryotherapy following assessment. We’ll explain what we can treat safely and what should be checked elsewhere.
What to expect at your appointment
Appointments are simple and structured:
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Suitability check – a few questions to make sure treatment is appropriate
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Treatment – the freezing application is brief; most people feel a cold, stinging sensation during application
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Aftercare and plan – you’ll leave with clear instructions and, if needed, guidance on follow-up treatment (usually spaced to allow the skin to renew)
Most people can return to normal activities straight away, so it typically involves little to no downtime.
What happens afterwards?
A mild healing response is normal. You may notice redness, itching, slight blistering, or a small scab as the area recovers. This is expected as the treated tissue breaks down and the skin repairs itself.
Try not to scratch or pick the area, and follow your aftercare advice to support clean healing.
Important information before booking
Cryotherapy isn’t suitable for everyone. Some people should speak to their GP before treatment — including pregnant patients and anyone with conditions affecting circulation, immune function, healing, or sensitivity to cold (for example Raynaud’s, scleroderma, cryoglobulinaemia, immunosuppression, diabetes, certain blood disorders, or significant skin healing conditions). If you’re unsure, contact the pharmacy before booking.
Avoid antihistamines before treatment.
If you have taken antihistamines within 48 hours of your appointment, we won’t be able to provide cryotherapy treatment. Please avoid antihistamines for seven days before your appointment.
When cryotherapy may not be the right option
Cryotherapy is intended for common, minor lesions. If you’re concerned about a mole that is changing, a lesion that is bleeding, or anything that looks unusual, we may recommend a mole scan or GP assessment rather than cryotherapy.
Cryotherapy at Amiry & Gilbride Pharmacy
Cryotherapy is available at Amiry & Gilbride Pharmacy, delivered by trained professionals in a private consultation setting — with clear support from first assessment to aftercare.
If you’d like a lesion assessed, you can learn more and book through our Cryotherapy service page.
