A keloid is a type of raised scar that occurs when the body’s natural wound healing process goes beyond what is necessary.

It results in an overgrowth of collagen fibers at the site of a healed wound or injury.

Keloids can be larger than the original wound and are often characterized by their raised, thick, and shiny appearance.

They can be red, pink, or flesh-colored, and they may continue to grow over time.

Keloids can develop after various types of skin injuries, including surgical incisions, burns, acne scars, vaccinations, and even minor cuts. While the exact cause of keloids isn’t fully understood, they seem to be related to an imbalance in the body’s response to tissue injury, inflammation, and collagen production.

Some people are more prone to developing keloids due to genetic factors. Individuals with darker skin tones are more likely to develop keloids than those with lighter skin tones. Additionally, keloids can be more common in certain areas of the body, such as the chest, shoulders, and earlobes.

Treatment options for keloids include:

Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help flatten and shrink keloids. Multiple injections may be needed over time.

Silicone Sheets or Gels: These are placed over the keloid and can help flatten and soften the scar tissue.

Cryotherapy: Freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen can help reduce its size.

Laser Therapy: Laser treatment can help reduce redness and flatten the keloid.

Surgery: Surgical removal of the keloid is an option, but there’s a risk of the keloid returning and potentially being larger than before. To prevent this, other treatments are often used in conjunction with surgery.

Radiation Therapy: In some cases, radiation therapy is used after surgical removal to prevent the keloid from returning.

Pressure Dressings: These dressings apply pressure to the keloid, which can help flatten it over time.

Interferon Therapy: This involves injecting interferon into the keloid to help reduce its growth.

It’s important to note that keloids can be challenging to treat, and not all treatments work for everyone. Consulting a dermatologist or a medical professional with experience in treating keloids is recommended to determine the best course of action based on individual circumstances.