Keloids are a common skin condition that affects people of all ages and ethnicities. These raised, often shiny scars form as a result of the body’s natural healing process, but unlike normal scars, keloids grow beyond the boundary of the original wound. While they aren’t dangerous to one’s health, they can cause discomfort, itching, and emotional distress—especially when they appear in highly visible areas like the face, chest, or shoulders.
What Is a Keloid?
A keloid is a type of abnormal scar that occurs when the skin overreacts to injury, producing excess collagen that accumulates in the wound area. This overproduction results in a firm, rubbery lesion that may be pink, red, or dark brown, depending on a person’s skin tone.
Keloids can arise from various skin injuries including:
- Surgical incisions
- Acne scars
- Burns
- Chickenpox scars
- Ear piercings
- Tattoos
- Cuts and scrapes
While anyone can develop a keloid, some individuals are more genetically predisposed than others. They are particularly common among people with darker skin tones and can appear even after minor skin trauma.
Signs and Symptoms
Keloids usually begin forming weeks or even months after the initial injury. The most identifiable signs include:
- A raised, thickened area of skin at the injury site
- A scar that continues to grow beyond the original wound
- Itching or tenderness in the affected area
- Smooth, shiny surface that may differ in color from surrounding skin
Though they are benign and non-cancerous, keloids can cause physical discomfort and restrict movement if located near a joint. More commonly, however, their appearance causes psychological stress due to self-consciousness or embarrassment.
Treatment Options for Keloids
Managing keloids can be challenging because they are known to recur after removal. However, several treatment options are available, depending on the size, location, and age of the keloid. Here are some of the most commonly recommended methods:
1. Corticosteroid Injections
These are anti-inflammatory medications that reduce scar tissue buildup. When injected directly into the keloid, they can help flatten the scar and relieve symptoms like itching or pain.
2. Cryotherapy
This involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen. It’s most effective on smaller, newer keloids and may be combined with other treatments for better results.
3. Laser Therapy
Laser treatments can reduce the height and discoloration of keloids. While lasers may not completely remove the scar, they significantly improve its appearance.
4. Surgical Removal
Excision is an option for large keloids, but it must be approached with caution. Surgical removal often leads to recurrence unless followed by additional therapies like radiation or corticosteroid injections.
5. Silicone Sheets and Gels
These products help in hydrating the scar tissue and are believed to flatten and soften keloids over time. They are non-invasive and often used as part of a long-term management plan.
6. Radiation Therapy
Low-dose radiation may be used post-surgery to minimize the chance of regrowth. It’s generally considered only in cases where other treatments have failed.
For anyone dealing with this condition, exploring treatment options tailored to their specific needs is essential. You can learn more about effective therapies and management strategies for keloid by visiting reputable dermatological resources.
Prevention Tips
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent keloids entirely, certain measures can reduce the risk, particularly if you know you are prone to them:
- Avoid unnecessary piercings or tattoos
- Treat acne early to prevent scarring
- Use pressure earrings after ear piercing
- Apply silicone sheets over healing wounds
- Keep wounds clean and protected
Final Thoughts
Though keloids can be stubborn and emotionally distressing, they are manageable with the right combination of treatment and prevention. If you’re dealing with recurring or particularly large keloids, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist to explore the most suitable options for your skin type and condition. With proper care and guidance, you can significantly reduce the impact keloids have on your life and self-confidence.
