Keloids
When skin is injured, fibrous tissue called scar tissue forms over the wound to repair and protect the injury. In some cases, extra scar tissue grows, forming smooth, hard growths called keloids.
Keloids can be much larger than the original wound. They’re most commonly found on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks. However, keloids can affect any part of your body.
Although keloids are not harmful to your health, they may create cosmetic concerns.
Keloid Symptoms
Keloids come from the overgrowth of scar tissue. Keloid scars tend to be larger than the original wound. They may take weeks or months to fully develop.
The symptoms of a keloid can include:
- a localized area that is flesh-colored, pink, or red
- a lumpy or ridged area of skin that’s usually raised
- an area that continues to grow larger with scar tissue over time
- an itchy patch of skin
While keloid scars may be itchy, they’re usually not harmful to your health. You may experience discomfort, tenderness, or irritation from your clothing or other forms of friction.
Keloid scarring can form on large areas of your body, but this is generally rare. When it happens, the hardened, tight scar tissue may restrict your movement.
Keloids are often more of a cosmetic concern than a health concern. You may feel self-conscious if a keloid is very large or in a highly visible location, such as on your earlobe or your face.
Keloid Causes
Most types of skin injury can contribute to keloid scarring, including:
- acne scars
- burns
- chickenpox scars
- ear piercing
- scratches
- surgical incision sites
- vaccination sites
An estimated 10% of people experience keloid scarring. Men and women are equally likely to have keloid scars. People with darker skin tones are more prone to keloids.
Keloids are more common in the following populations:
- people of Asian descent
- people of Latin descent
- pregnant people
- people younger than age 30
Keloids tend to have a genetic component, which means you’re more likely to have keloids if one or both of your parents have them. If you have known risk factors for developing keloids, you may want to avoid getting body piercings, unnecessary surgeries, and tattoos.
Treatment
Topical Applications Symptomatic
Medical Management
PRP
Dermapen
Dermaroller
Lazer Treatment