Precise, non-laser treatments for skin tags, cherry angiomas, milia, broken capillaries & more — safe for all skin tones with minimal downtime
At Hideaway Spa, we use medical-grade thermolysis (Skin Classic device) for safe, targeted treatment of benign superficial skin lesions. This non-laser high-frequency technique offers precision, minimal downtime, and effectiveness across all skin tones.
Thermolysis is a high-frequency electrosurgical technique that delivers controlled heat through a fine probe to cauterize tissue. Unlike laser treatments, it uses radiofrequency electrical energy to produce rapid, precise heating of targeted areas. The result: dehydration or coagulation of unwanted superficial tissue with minimal trauma to surrounding skin.1
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"Erika did an amazing job taking a skin tag off of my eye. Took only a few seconds to do it after consulting me. The pictures show how huge it was on my eye and then how it looked less than two weeks later."
— Len Ziraldo
"I came to hopefully remove a tag that was just beneath my eye... Erica was able to talk me through all of my anxieties before we began... I would highly recommend going to Erica for anyone considering doing a treatment like this."
— Misty & Me 360
"Erika treated a scar and I have seen visible results each time. 10/10 customer service. Definitely a witch."
— Marika T.
See exactly how quickly and safely thermolysis treatments are performed
Complete cyst scar treatment demonstration from consultation to completion
Thermolysis effectively treats a wide range of benign superficial skin lesions. Below are the most common conditions we address in our Windsor clinic.
Small, soft, benign flaps of skin commonly found on the neck, underarms, eyelids, and skin folds. Thermolysis rapidly dehydrates the tissue; the treated tag naturally falls off within 3-7 days.
Treatment time: 5-20 seconds per tag depending on size
Small, bright red vascular lesions caused by clustered blood vessels. Thermolysis coagulates the vessels instantly, with visible clearance during treatment.3
Treatment time: Seconds; visually clears immediately
Benign, dark papules typically appearing on darker skin tones. Thermolysis is highly effective when performed with appropriate technique to minimize pigmentation changes.
Treatment time: 5-30 seconds per lesion depending on size
Enlarged sebaceous glands appearing as small, soft bumps, often on the forehead and cheeks. Thermolysis collapses the glandular tissue, reducing bump prominence.
Treatment time: 5-20 seconds per lesion
Tiny white keratin-filled cysts that can be safely extracted and cauterized using thermolysis for clean, precise results.
Treatment time: 5-10 seconds per cyst
Small visible blood vessels on the face that can be coagulated with precise thermolysis. Vascular lasers may be preferable for extensive networks depending on size and depth.
Treatment time: Seconds per millimeter of vessel
Small benign rough patches, including some seborrheic or senile keratoses. Larger or clinically suspicious lesions require medical assessment before treatment.
Treatment time: 5-30 seconds depending on size and depth
Soft yellowish bumps, often appearing around the eyelids. Can be safely treated with thermolysis. Multiple sessions may be necessary for larger deposits.
Treatment time: 10-20 seconds per deposit
Dark spots caused by sun exposure, hormones, or inflammation. Superficial sun spots often respond well to thermolysis. Deeper diffuse pigmentation (melasma, post-inflammatory marks) may be better addressed through microchanneling or targeted facial treatments.
Treatment time: Evaluated spot-by-spot; most clear after one session
Thermolysis can effectively improve pitted scars through controlled tissue regeneration. Multiple treatments typically necessary for optimal results. Smaller marks may also respond to microchanneling.
Treatment time: Variable — see video demonstration above
Understanding your options helps you make informed decisions. Below is a fact-based comparison of thermolysis against other common treatment modalities for benign skin lesions.
| Feature | Thermolysis (Our Method) | Laser Treatment | Cryotherapy / Surgical Excision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | High-frequency radiofrequency (13.56-27.12 MHz)1 | Focused light energy (various wavelengths) | Liquid nitrogen freeze or surgical cutting |
| Precision | Sub-millimeter precision; ideal for small, delicate areas | Beam width varies (1-10mm typical); broader treatment area | Variable; surgical excision most precise |
| Pain Level | Brief sting/burning sensation during treatment2 | Mild to moderate; often requires cooling | Cryotherapy: intense cold sting; Excision: requires local anesthesia |
| Treatment Duration | Seconds per lesion | Minutes per area; multiple passes may be needed | Cryotherapy: seconds; Excision: 10-30 minutes + suturing |
| Downtime | Minimal; 3-10 days healing, light crusting | Days to weeks; depends on depth and area treated | Cryotherapy: 1-2 weeks; Excision: 2-4 weeks with stitches |
| Scarring Risk | Very low when properly performed1 | Low to moderate; depends on settings and skin type | Cryotherapy: moderate (hypopigmentation risk); Excision: higher (linear scar) |
| Skin Tone Suitability | Safe for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-VI) | Some lasers contraindicated for darker skin; risk of pigmentation changes | Generally safe; cryotherapy carries hypopigmentation risk |
| Cost per Treatment | $50-200 (see pricing below) | $150-400+ per session | Cryotherapy: $100-300; Excision: $200-600+ (medical procedure) |
| Best Applications | Small lesions, facial work, eyelids, precision removal | Larger vascular areas, diffuse pigmentation, hair removal | Cryotherapy: warts, thick keratoses; Excision: deep/complex lesions requiring biopsy |
Cost estimates reflect typical Windsor/Ontario market rates as of 2025. Individual treatment needs may vary.
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Thermolysis uses a handpiece connected to a high-frequency radiofrequency generator. When the probe tip briefly contacts the lesion, electrical energy produces localized heating through ionic agitation within tissue fluids. This resistive heating causes targeted tissue to coagulate and dehydrate, eliminating the imperfection.1
The probe tip is extremely fine (sub-millimeter diameter) and contact time is measured in milliseconds. This precision minimizes collateral thermal damage to surrounding tissue. The treated area naturally desquamates (sheds) within several days as the epidermis regenerates.2
Thermolysis, also termed high-frequency or radiofrequency (RF) electrodessication, operates within ISM-designated radiofrequency bands — most commonly 13.56 MHz or 27.12 MHz (both harmonic multiples of 6.78 MHz). The specific frequency varies by manufacturer but remains within this medically recognized range.1
When the active electrode probe briefly contacts tissue, oscillating RF current induces ionic agitation within intracellular and extracellular fluids. This agitation generates resistive (Joule) heating confined to the target tissue, causing localized temperature rise (typically 60-100°C) that produces protein denaturation and cellular coagulation, effectively desiccating or carbonizing the lesion.
Each pulse lasts only milliseconds, producing controlled, superficial coagulative effects. By targeting lesions with sub-millimeter precision, lateral thermal diffusion is minimized, protecting surrounding dermis. Treated tissue naturally desquamates within days as the epidermis regenerates.2
This modality differs from traditional electrosurgery and laser ablation. It involves no cutting electrode and no photothermal vaporization — only resistive heating from high-frequency alternating current. Thermolysis (electrodessication) is well-documented for cosmetic treatment of benign epidermal irregularities including skin tags, cherry angiomas, sebaceous hyperplasia, milia, and other superficial lesions.3
Each appointment begins with consultation and lesion assessment. Treatment is performed systematically, with most individual lesions requiring only seconds of contact time. Multiple lesions are typically treated within a 10-20 minute session.
Pricing structured by lesion count or time blocks — we'll help determine the best option during consultation.
Unsure what you need? Book a single spot online and note your questions — we'll assess during your consultation.
In addition to treating skin lesions, thermolysis (also known as electrolysis or thermolytic hair removal) can be used for permanent hair reduction on small facial areas. This application uses the same high-frequency technology but targets individual hair follicles.4
A fine probe is inserted alongside the hair shaft into the follicle. High-frequency energy heats and destroys the hair matrix cells responsible for growth. Once destroyed, the follicle cannot produce new hair. This is considered a permanent hair removal method when performed correctly.4
We offer thermolysis hair removal for small facial areas where precision is essential:
$100 per 15 minutes (face/neck areas only)
Time-based pricing ensures fair treatment regardless of area. Consultation recommended to estimate total sessions needed.
Note: Thermolysis hair removal requires multiple sessions as hair grows in cycles. Treatment targets active growth-phase hairs; follicles in dormant phases require subsequent appointments for complete clearance.
Ideal candidates: Adults with benign superficial skin lesions seeking rapid, minimally invasive treatment. Suitable for all skin types and tones when performed appropriately.
Contraindications and cautions:
Thermolysis is considered low-risk when performed by trained practitioners. However, all procedures carry potential side effects:
Important: Any lesion that appears irregular, is changing, bleeding, or clinically suspicious will be referred for medical assessment before treatment. Thermolysis is only performed on confirmed benign, superficial lesions within cosmetic scope of practice.
These images document actual client outcomes following thermolysis treatment at Hideaway Spa. Results vary by lesion type, size, and individual healing response.
Skin tag directly on eyelid and keratosis beneath eye — complete clearance following single treatment
Deep cyst scar treated with thermolysis over multiple sessions — significant improvement in depth and texture
Telangiectasia (broken capillaries) around nostril — coagulated during single treatment session
With the Skin Classic device, we're capable of treating Acrochordons (Skin Tags), Lentigines (Sun Spots), Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN), Cyst Scars, Cherry Angiomas, Milia, Sebaceous Hyperplasia, Telangiectasia (Broken Capillaries), Keratoses, Melasma, and Xanthelasma (Cholesterol Deposits). It can also be used for electrolysis hair removal.
Treatment duration varies by lesion type and size. Cherry angiomas may take only 3-5 seconds, while larger keratoses can require 1-2 minutes. Multiple small lesions are typically treated within a 10-20 minute session. See video demonstrations above for real-time examples.
Most clients experience a brief, sharp sensation during treatment. Pain level varies by treatment location — some areas feel like mild pressure while others produce a momentary burning sensation. The discomfort typically dissipates immediately once the probe is lifted. Treatment speed makes it generally well-tolerated without anesthesia for small lesions.
No. We do not treat moles at the spa. Any mole that is changing, bleeding, irregular, or medically questionable must be evaluated by a physician or dermatologist. While thermolysis can cauterize tissue, moles fall outside our cosmetic scope of practice for safety, insurance, and medical ethics reasons. Only confirmed benign, superficial lesions may be treated after visual assessment.
Many lesions achieve complete clearance in a single session. Larger or more vascular lesions may require 2-3 follow-up treatments spaced several weeks apart. Pitted scar rejuvenation typically requires multiple sessions (3-6) for optimal results. Your specific treatment plan will be discussed during consultation.
When performed correctly on appropriate lesions, scarring is uncommon or minimal. Risk factors for scarring include: overly aggressive treatment depth, picking at healing crusts, inadequate aftercare compliance, and treatment of lesions that extend too deep into the dermis. Proper technique and strict adherence to post-treatment instructions minimize scarring risk.1
Thermolysis uses high-frequency electrical energy (radiofrequency at 13.56-27.12 MHz) to generate heat through ionic agitation. Lasers use focused light energy at specific wavelengths. Key differences:
Both are effective; selection depends on lesion type, size, location, and patient factors. See comparison table above for detailed analysis.
Thermolysis treatment may be referred to by various terms including: electrodessication, electrosurgery, radiofrequency cautery, electrocoagulation, high-frequency cautery (HF cautery), cosmetic cauterization, radiofrequency ablation, and RF skin revision. These terms generally describe similar high-frequency electrosurgical techniques.
Yes. Professional high-frequency radiofrequency devices such as Lamprobe, Skin Classic, ThermoClear, SkinSheer, SIIT Pro, Perfect Touch, Skin Sheek, VascuTouch, Lamskin, and ThermoLo all operate on the same thermolysis principle. They safely treat minor skin irregularities using localized RF energy to coagulate and desiccate target tissue. We use the Skin Classic system, but technology and expected outcomes are comparable across these devices.
Yes. Thermolysis is safe for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I-VI) when performed with appropriate technique. Unlike some lasers that carry higher risk of pigmentation changes in darker skin, radiofrequency energy does not target melanin. However, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation remains possible with any skin injury. Proper treatment parameters and strict sun protection minimize this risk.2
Mineral makeup may be applied approximately 90 minutes post-treatment if necessary, though waiting 24 hours is preferable. Avoid liquid foundations and heavy coverage for first 48 hours. Do not apply makeup directly over crusted areas — allow natural healing and shedding before resuming normal cosmetic use.
Yes. All treatments are performed by certified professionals with specialized training in thermolysis techniques. Hideaway Spa maintains comprehensive insurance coverage for all cosmetic procedures and holds accredited membership with the Better Business Bureau. Learn more on our About page.
Erika brings over 14 years of experience in advanced skincare and has worked alongside dermatology teams using lasers, RF devices, and precision thermolysis. She takes an evidence-based, personalized approach to treatment in a private studio setting. Learn more about Erika →
Informed written consent is required before all thermolysis treatments. We request permission for before/after photography for clinical records and marketing purposes; clients may decline public sharing.
Medical referral protocol:
Any lesion exhibiting irregular borders, color variation, rapid growth, bleeding, or other concerning features will be referred for medical evaluation before treatment. Hideaway Spa performs cosmetic thermolysis exclusively on confirmed benign superficial lesions. When medical assessment is indicated, we provide referral recommendations and defer treatment pending physician clearance.
Disclaimer: Hideaway Spa provides cosmetic thermolysis for benign skin lesions. This is not a medical service. Any clinically suspicious lesion requires evaluation by a physician or dermatologist.