Keloids are raised, firm, and often reddish-purple scars that extend beyond the original wound boundaries due to excessive collagen production during the healing process. These scars can develop anywhere on the body but frequently appear on the chest, back, shoulders, ears, and jawline. They may cause itching, tenderness, or pain and are more common in individuals with darker skin tones and a genetic predisposition. Triggers include skin trauma such as cuts, surgery, piercings, burns, acne, or insect bites.
Silicone Gel/Sheets: Flatten and soften scars through continuous pressure and hydration.
Topical Corticosteroid Creams: Reduce inflammation and collagen buildup.
Intralesional Corticosteroid Injections: Directly shrink keloids (first-line therapy).
Surgical Excision: Remove the scar, though recurrence is common without adjuvant therapies.
Laser Therapy: Pulsed dye or CO₂ lasers to reduce redness and scar volume.
Radiotherapy: Low-dose radiation post-surgery to prevent recurrence (reserved for severe cases).
Cryotherapy: Freeze and shrink smaller keloids with liquid nitrogen.
Immunotherapy: Intralesional injections (e.g., 5-fluorouracil) to inhibit collagen synthesis.
Mesotherapy: Microinjections of vitamins, enzymes, or medications to improve texture.
Keloids require multimodal approaches to minimize recurrence.
Early intervention (e.g., silicone sheets post-injury) can prevent formation in high-risk individuals.
A dermatologist tailors treatment based on scar size, location, and patient history.