Ursulina Tarpley

Written by Ursulina Tarpley

Published: 27 Jan 2025

25-facts-about-keloid
Source: Torontodermatologycentre.com

What are keloids? Keloids are raised scars that grow larger than the original wound. They form when the skin heals after an injury, but the healing process goes into overdrive. Instead of stopping when the wound is covered, the body keeps producing collagen, creating a thick, lumpy scar. These scars can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks. Keloids can be itchy, painful, or cause discomfort, especially if they rub against clothing. While they aren't harmful, they can be a cosmetic concern for many. Understanding keloids helps in managing and preventing them effectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Keloids are raised scars that grow beyond the original wound and can be itchy, painful, and unsightly. They are more common in people with darker skin tones and can develop after surgeries, piercings, burns, or even minor injuries.
  • Genetics, hormonal changes, and certain types of skin injuries can increase the likelihood of keloid formation. Recognizing the symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Various treatments can help manage keloids, though they can be stubborn and recur.
Table of Contents

What are Keloids?

Keloids are raised scars that grow beyond the boundaries of an original wound. They can be itchy, painful, and sometimes unsightly. Here are some interesting facts about keloids.

  1. 01

    Keloids form due to an overproduction of collagen during the healing process.

  2. 02

    They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks.

  3. 03

    Keloids are more prevalent in people with darker skin tones.

  4. 04

    They can develop after surgeries, piercings, burns, or even minor injuries like insect bites.

  5. 05

    Keloids can continue to grow for weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury.

Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding what causes keloids and who is at risk can help in managing and preventing them.

  1. 06

    Genetics play a significant role; if a family member has keloids, you are more likely to develop them.

  2. 07

    Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty or pregnancy, can increase the likelihood of keloid formation.

  3. 08

    People aged 10 to 30 are more prone to developing keloids.

  4. 09

    Certain types of skin injuries, like acne scars or chickenpox scars, are more likely to turn into keloids.

  5. 10

    Tension on a wound, such as that from a joint or a high-movement area, can contribute to keloid formation.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing the symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

  1. 11

    Keloids are usually shiny, hairless, and can be pink, red, or dark brown.

  2. 12

    They can cause discomfort, including itching, tenderness, and even pain.

  3. 13

    A dermatologist can diagnose keloids through a physical examination and medical history.

  4. 14

    Sometimes, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions.

  5. 15

    Keloids can sometimes restrict movement if they form over a joint.

Treatment Options

Various treatments can help manage keloids, though they can be stubborn and recur.

  1. 16

    Corticosteroid injections are commonly used to reduce inflammation and flatten keloids.

  2. 17

    Surgical removal is an option, but keloids often return and can become larger.

  3. 18

    Laser therapy can help reduce the size and discoloration of keloids.

  4. 19

    Silicone gel sheets or silicone ointments can soften and flatten keloids over time.

  5. 20

    Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen, can be effective for smaller keloids.

Prevention Tips

Preventing keloids can be challenging, but some strategies can reduce the risk.

  1. 21

    Avoid unnecessary skin trauma, such as piercings or tattoos, especially if you are prone to keloids.

  2. 22

    Use pressure earrings or dressings after ear piercings to minimize keloid formation.

  3. 23

    Keep wounds clean and covered to prevent infection, which can lead to keloid formation.

  4. 24

    Apply sunscreen to scars to prevent them from becoming darker and more noticeable.

  5. 25

    Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice if you have a history of keloids.

Final Thoughts on Keloids

Keloids can be a real nuisance, but understanding them better helps manage and prevent them. These raised scars form due to an overgrowth of collagen during the healing process. They can appear anywhere on the body, often after surgery, piercings, or injuries. While they aren't harmful, they can be itchy or uncomfortable. Treatments range from steroid injections to laser therapy, though results vary. Prevention is key—keeping wounds clean and avoiding unnecessary skin trauma can help. If you’re prone to keloids, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice. Knowledge is power, and now you’re armed with facts to tackle keloids head-on. Stay informed, take care of your skin, and don’t let keloids hold you back.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a keloid?
A keloid is a type of raised scar that grows larger than the original wound. It's the result of an overly aggressive healing process, extending beyond the injury site. Unlike regular scars, keloids can continue to grow and don't subside over time.
How can someone tell if they have a keloid?
You'll know it's a keloid if the scar seems to grow and expand beyond the boundaries of the original wound, becoming raised, dark, and possibly itchy or painful. They're often more noticeable and can become quite large compared to a typical scar.
Are certain people more prone to getting keloids?
Yes, indeed. People with darker skin tones, like African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians, are more likely to develop keloids. Genetics also play a big role, so if your family members get them, chances are higher you might too.
Can keloids be prevented?
While completely preventing keloids can be tricky, minimizing skin injuries and treating wounds carefully can help. For those known to be prone to keloids, avoiding elective surgeries and piercings can reduce the risk. Prompt, gentle care of skin injuries and seeking advice from a dermatologist early can also make a difference.
What treatments are available for keloids?
Several options exist, ranging from steroid injections that help flatten the keloid to laser therapy for reducing redness and improving texture. Surgery can remove them, though there's a risk they'll grow back. Cryotherapy, which freezes the keloid, and pressure treatments are other methods used, especially for smaller keloids.
Can keloids turn into cancer?
It's extremely rare for a keloid to develop into cancer. They're mostly a cosmetic concern rather than a health threat. However, any changes in a scar, like rapid growth or pain, should be checked by a healthcare professional to rule out other issues.
How do keloids affect a person's life?
Beyond the physical appearance, keloids can impact a person's self-esteem and comfort. They can be itchy or painful, and their location might restrict movement or cause discomfort with clothing. However, with the right treatment and care, many people manage their keloids and live comfortably.
Is there any research being done on keloids?
Absolutely! Scientists are continuously studying keloids, looking for better understanding and treatments. Research focuses on genetic factors, improved surgical techniques, and new medications to prevent keloid formation or treat existing ones more effectively. Progress is ongoing, offering hope for those affected.

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