Keloids are firm, fleshy areas of raised skin that develop when scar tissue spreads beyond the perimeters of a healed wound. Although keloids are ultimately harmless, they can cause itching, burning, pain and tenderness. Large and conspicuous keloids may also look unattractive, leading to social anxiety and poor self-image. If you have keloids, your health care provider may recommend any of several treatment options.
Causes
Several factors contribute to the formation of keloids. According to the University of South Carolina, keloids occur most commonly in people of Hispanic, African and Asian ancestry. Although young children and older adults sometimes get keloids, they are most likely to form between ages 10 and 30. A keloid generally forms after a deep skin wound, such as a burn, piercing or surgical incision. Acne and chickenpox may also lead to the development of keloid scars.
Prevention
If you are prone to keloids, avoid any factors that could contribute to their formation. The University of South Carolina advises patients to avoid skin trauma, piercings, tattoos and elective cosmetic surgery. If you have a cut or an abrasion on your skin, tend to it as quickly as possible to prevent it from scarring extensively. Keep your skin supple and scarless by using lotions, ointments and other moisturizers on shallow wounds.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Several nonsurgical options are available for the treatment of keloid scars. The University of South Carolina reports that corticosteroid injections can reduce the size and symptoms of keloid scars. Your health care provider will inject a small dose of hydrocortisone or prednisone into the keloid scar every three to four weeks for six months. Compression dressings, which use pressure to flatten the scar, are another nonsurgical option. These require up to 12 months of ongoing treatment. Rarely, a dermatologist may recommend radiation therapy to eliminate keloids, but this is generally a last resort because of the potential side effects.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments for keloid scars vary in their efficacy and invasiveness. The University of South Carolina notes that cryosurgery, a freezing technique more commonly used to treat warts, can successfully eliminate keloids. The University of Maryland Medical Center also references the use of laser surgery and traditionally surgery to excise and remove keloid scars.
Considerations
You may not need clinical treatment for keloid scars. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that keloids occasionally shrink without treatment. If your keloid scars are not significantly disfiguring and do not cause discomfort, it is not necessary to seek treatment. Keloids are not associated with cancerous growths or any other serious health problem.
