1. Be Your Own Nurse
It is believed that one main reason for the development of keloids is underlying infection. The scar tissue is over-produced to keep the infection contained and away from healthy tissue. Therefore, while it is always an excellent idea to take good care of any infections, cuts or injuries and keep them clean and free of further infection, this is especially true if you already know that you have a tendency to get keloids.
Cleanse your wound and use a topical antibiotic like Bactroban (mupirocin) or Neosporin (neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates and bacitracin zinc ophthalmic ointment) to rid it of infection-causing bacteria. Bandage it and keep it clear of dirt and debris. Visit your doctor at the first sign of infection.
2. Don't Get Them
Some people are more prone to getting keloids than others, such as those with a darker skin tone, young women and those whose family members have had them. If you already know that you have the genetic disposition to develop keloids, you should avoid any situations in which you could get them. Since keloids can develop from something as simple as an ear piercing or tattoo, it is best to avoid any elective procedures that will require your body to heal skin tissue.
If you already have a keloid and are considering removing it through surgery or laser treatments, think twice before doing it since keloids are not dangerous and usually do not require medical removal. Treating them with surgery or lasers will often lead to a recurrence, which may be even larger.
3. Make a Plan for Surgical Care
If you must have surgery, talk with your doctor about your keloids or susceptibility for them. You and your doctor can then discuss possible prevention measures, such as taking extra care to avoid infection of the healing skin tissue or administering steroid injections immediately following the surgical procedure.
