Liquid nitrogen is applied with a cotton swab or spray apparatus until a lesion and some surrounding tissue are frozen.

You may expect some pain during the treatment and for a short time afterward. TylenolŪ or ibuprofen will usually relieve the pain. A blister will probably form with a few hours. It may be filled with a clear or dark bloody fluid. It is best to leave the blister alone and allow it to dry; however, if you have a lot of discomfort, you may prick the edge of the blister with a sterilized needle to relieve pressure. It is also best to leave the blister uncovered, but a loose dressing or bandage may be applied for a short time to keep the blister from being rubbed or scratched. If the blister breaks and leaves a raw surface, gently clean the surface twice a day with cool water and apply a thin layer antibiotic ointment and a bandage.

The blister will heal much like a small burn, drying in about two weeks. The skin underneath will be red or purplish, but the color will fade in time, usually leaving little or no scarring.

Sometimes, even after careful treatment, a lesion will return. If this happens, arrange to see your doctor or nurse practitioner before it becomes large.