Keloid Scar

A keloid scar, as the name implies is a scar that develops at the site of the skin injury. It is a type of a raised scar that develops larger than the wound that caused it. Keloid scars can develop anywhere in the body but most commonly appear in the chest, back, abdomen, ear, jaw, and shoulders. These scars grow slowly and can take months and even years to develop after a skin injury. Keloid scar results when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. These scars can be round, oval or oblong shaped and appear darker than the natural skin colour.

Keloid scar results when the body produces excess collagen to heal an injury. After an injury, to heal the wound, the body produces collagen (a protein that gives the skin support & strength) that aids in rebuilding of skin. However, at times the body produces too much collagen that results in keloid. Anything that leads to changes in the skin may lead to keloid including acne, a cut, burn, piercing, tattoo, surgical incision, bug bite, chicken pox, etc. 

Keloid scar is characterised by a raised, thickened scar that extends beyond the actual injury site. The scar can appear darker than the surrounding skin colour and may be itchy, tender, or may cause discomfort. 

• Irregular-Shaped Scar: The primary sign of a keloid scar is its irregular shape. Unlike regular scars, keloid scars grow beyond the original injury site and are irregularly shaped.

• Colour: The scar may differ from the surrounding natural skin colour and may be pink, red, or darker than the nearby skin colour. 

• Itching or Tenderness: The scar may be itchy or tender and may cause irritation or discomfort.

• Pain: Keloid scar may sometimes also cause pain, particularly when touched or subject to pressure. Especially the scars which are bigger in size. 

• Limited Movement: In some cases where the scar is big in size and near the joint can lead to limited or restricted movement. 

• Raised & Rubbery Tissue: Tissue: Keloids can cause the skin to become raised, often irregular, with bumps on the surface. 

• Physical Examination: Physical examination is conducted by a doctor and involves inspection of the scar and noting its characteristics. The doctor might check for pain and itchiness. Additionally, the specialist might ask about the nature of the injury that caused the scar. 

• Skin Biopsy: If the doctor suspects anything or if the diagnosis is unclear a skin biopsy might be advised. A small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope.

• Age: Keloids are more common in individuals aged between 10 to 30 years. 

• Ethnicity & Skin Tone: Individuals of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent are more prone to develop keloids.

• Genetics: Keloids also run in families, having a first-degree relative may increase the risk. 

• Type of Injury: Certain types of skin injuries may increase the development of keloids including surgical scars, burns, acne scars, vaccinations, and more.

• Other factors include genetic conditions, pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations during puberty, skin conditions, and more. 

• Topical Treatment: Topic treatment of keloid involves using corticosteroid creams, gels and more to help reduce inflammation and flatten the scar. 

• Injections: Corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation, and itching, and flatten the tissue. 

• Cryotherapy: Procedure involving freezing the keloid using liquid nitrogen. Cryotherapy helps freeze & flatten the scar.

• Laser Therapy: Pulsed-dye laser treatment is used to reduce the scar size, and redness, and also help with itching.

• Surgical Removal: The procedure involves removing the scar surgically. It is also combined with treatments like radiation, injections, and more. 

• Wear safety gears & equipment when required. 
• Avoid getting piercings or tattoos. 
• Wear bug spray when necessary.
• Use a gel patch on the skin after an injury. 
• Keep the wound clean & moist, apply a wound dressing.