Most scars form as a natural part of healing, fading over time and blending into the surrounding skin. However, some scars grow larger, thicker, and extend beyond the original injury. These are known as keloid scars, and they can be both physically and emotionally challenging for those who develop them.
What Are Keloids?
A keloid is a raised scar caused by an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. Unlike normal scars, which stop forming once the wound closes, keloids continue to grow and may become significantly larger than the original wound site.
They are most commonly found on the chest, shoulders, back, earlobes, and jawline but can develop anywhere the skin experiences trauma.
How Do Keloids Develop?
Keloids occur when the skin’s repair system goes into overdrive. Collagen, the protein responsible for wound healing, is produced in excess, forming dense scar tissue that expands beyond the injury’s borders.
Common triggers include:
- Cuts, burns, or surgical incisions
- Ear or body piercings
- Acne scars
- Tattoos
- Insect bites
- Vaccination sites
Some people are more prone to keloids due to:
- Genetics – A family history of keloids increases risk.
- Skin tone – Darker skin types are more susceptible.
- Age – Most cases occur in people between 10 and 30 years old.
Signs and Symptoms
Keloids typically appear weeks or even months after the initial injury. They often have the following features:
- Firm, raised skin over the scar site
- Shiny, smooth surface
- Pink, red, brown, or darker coloration
- Growth that spreads beyond the wound’s original boundaries
- Possible itching, tenderness, or discomfort
Some remain small and stable, while others gradually enlarge over time.
Treatment Options for Keloids
Keloids are known for being stubborn and may return even after treatment. However, several methods can help reduce their size, smooth their texture, and relieve symptoms.
- Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid shots help flatten keloids and reduce redness. - Laser Therapy
Targets pigmentation and smooths the scar’s surface. - Cryotherapy
Freezes smaller keloids, making them softer and less prominent. - Surgical Removal
Cuts out the scar, often followed by other treatments to prevent recurrence. - Silicone Sheets or Gels
Applied daily to soften scar tissue and flatten the keloid. - Pressure Therapy
Uses compression garments to limit scar growth after surgery or injury.
Preventing Keloids
For individuals prone to keloids, prevention is often more effective than treatment. Key preventive measures include:
- Avoiding unnecessary piercings and tattoos.
- Treating acne promptly to prevent deep scarring.
- Using silicone sheets or gels after surgery or injury.
- Protecting healing skin from sun exposure.
- Alerting your doctor before surgery so preventive steps can be taken.
Emotional Impact
While keloids do not pose serious health risks, they can affect confidence, especially if located on visible areas like the face, neck, or hands. The psychological effects of keloids are often underestimated, as many people feel self-conscious about their appearance.
Seeking support from dermatologists and mental health professionals can make a big difference in managing the condition’s emotional toll.
The Future of Keloid Treatment
Medical research is constantly exploring new ways to treat and prevent keloids. Combination therapies—such as pairing laser treatments with steroid injections—have shown promising results. New techniques like microneedling and targeted drug delivery may also reduce recurrence rates in the future.
Final Thoughts
Keloids are the result of an overactive healing response in the skin. While they can be persistent, modern treatments and preventive strategies can help improve their appearance and reduce discomfort. Understanding your personal risk factors and seeking early medical advice is the best way to keep keloids under control and maintain healthier skin.
