Under normal circumstances, when the skin sustains an injury, skin and connective tissue cells multiply to close the wound. With keloids the skin and connective tissue cells continue to multiply after the wound has closed --- resulting in raised, reddish mounds of scar tissue. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, keloids can form on any part of the body, but the upper chest, shoulders and upper back are especially prone. Keloids occur in approximately 10 percent of the population and, per Medline Plus, people with dark pigmentation are more susceptible. Several medical treatments can remove or reduce the appearance of keloids.
Step 1
Consider steroid injections. Per the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, long-acting cortisone shots are the best initial treatment for keloid scars. After three to six monthly shots, keloids become flatter and less noticeable. People with a family history of keloids, however, may be susceptible to recurrence after treatment.
Step 2
Discuss freezing, or cryosurgery, with your physician. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology considers cryosurgery, combined with cortisone injections, an excellent treatment for small keloids on light skin.
Step 3
Request alpha-interferon injections after cryosurgery. The American College of Dermatology reports promising results when alpha-interferon is injected immediately after surgical removal.
Step 4
Try laser treatments. Per Medline Plus, lasers improve skin texture and pigmentation but may not flatten out the keloid.
Step 5
Consult with your doctor about surgical removal and radiation. Per the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, surgical excision followed by x-ray treatments works in 85 percent of the most severe cases. Electron beam radiation is another option, which does not go as deep as X-ray radiation and will not affect the internal organs. Orthovoltage penetrates more and is slightly more effective.
Step 6
Use silicone pads and creams to reduce pain, itching and swelling. Silicone, however, will not remove the keloid and may take up to three months to work.
Tips and Warnings
- Per Medline Plus, keloid scars often to not need treatment except for cosmetic reasons.
Things You'll Need
- Silicone-based creams and pads
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