Keloid scars are more than just a cosmetic concern as they represent a complex skin condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Characterised by raised, thickened areas of scar tissue that grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound, keloids can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. They typically develop after skin injuries like cuts, burns, or even after minor abrasions and can be particularly challenging to treat due to their tendency to recur after removal.
At City Dermatology Clinic, we understand the distress that keloid scars can cause. Equipped with the latest advancements in dermatological treatment and a deep commitment to patient care, our clinic stands at the forefront of effective keloid management and removal.
Whether you’re struggling with keloids yourself or are looking to prevent them in the future, understanding these scars is the first step towards effective treatment. Join us as we delve into the essentials of keloid scars, arming you with the knowledge needed to take control of your skin health.
What Are Keloid Scars?
Keloid scars are a type of raised scar that are unique because they grow beyond the size of the original wound. Unlike hypertrophic scars, which are also raised but stay within the boundaries of the injury, keloids can expand in size and sometimes become quite large and noticeable. They are formed due to an overgrowth of dense fibrous tissue that develops after the skin heals from an injury.
Understanding the Skin’s Response to Injury
When the skin is injured, it undergoes a natural healing process that involves several stages. Initially, the body works to stop any bleeding and then a clot forms to protect the area. Following this, a proliferation of collagen, a protein that is fundamental to wound healing, occurs. In most cases, this wound healing process proceeds without any issues, and the scar that forms will gradually fade. However, in some individuals, the skin overreacts to the injury, producing an excessive amount of collagen which leads to the formation of a keloid scar.
Characteristics of Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are typically firm, rubbery lesions or shiny, fibrous nodules. Their color can vary from pink to the color of the person’s skin or red to dark brown. They are often itchy or painful, and in some cases, can affect mobility, especially if located over a joint or in large skin areas.
Keloids are most common in people with darker skin tones, particularly those of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent. They can occur in individuals of any age, but are most commonly seen in people between the ages of 10 and 30.
Differences Between Keloid Scars and Other Types of Scars
Understanding the differences between keloid scars and other types of scars is crucial for effective treatment. Unlike keloids, other scar types such as hypertrophic scars do not grow beyond the boundary of the original wound and often improve in appearance over time. Keloids, however, may continue to grow slowly for years and do not regress.
Causes of Keloid Scars
Keloid scars result from the skin’s overzealous production of collagen after an injury has healed. This abnormal response can be triggered by a variety of factors, and understanding these can help in both treating existing keloids and preventing their formation.
Genetic Predisposition
One of the primary factors in keloid formation is genetics. Individuals with a family history of keloids are at a higher risk of developing them. This genetic tendency means that keloids are often seen in multiple family members across generations, suggesting a hereditary component that influences how the body responds to skin injuries.
Common Injuries Leading to Keloid Formation
Virtually any skin injury can lead to a keloid in predisposed individuals. Common causes include:
- Surgical incisions
- Acne scars
- Piercings and tattoos
- Burns and skin abrasions
- Vaccination sites
This extensive list highlights that even minor skin traumas can result in keloids, underscoring the importance of careful wound management, especially in individuals known to be at risk.
Risk Factors That Increase Likelihood of Developing Keloids
Several other factors can increase the likelihood of keloid development, including:
- Younger individuals, particularly those between ages 10 and 30, are more likely to develop keloids.
- People with darker skin tones are more prone to developing keloids, as mentioned earlier.
- Deeper or more severe wounds are more likely to keloid, as are wounds in certain areas of the body such as the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and upper arms.
Understanding these risk factors can help in adopting preventive measures to minimize the chances of keloid formation following skin injuries. It also assists healthcare professionals in forecasting the likelihood of keloids in patients with fresh wounds or surgical scars.
Symptoms of Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are not only noticeable due to their raised, often lustrous appearance but also cause a range of physical symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and management.
Visual Characteristics
Keloids are easily identifiable by their thick, raised texture. They are typically larger than the original wound and can continue to grow progressively over time. The scar tissue is usually shiny and may have a rubbery feel. The coloration varies from pink to red or even dark brown, depending on the individual’s skin tone and the age of the keloid.
Physical Sensations
Beyond their appearance, keloid scars can be physically uncomfortable or even painful. Common sensations associated with keloids include:
- Many individuals with keloids report persistent itching in the scar area, which can be intense and distressing.
- The scarred area may feel tender to the touch, with varying degrees of pain or discomfort when pressure is applied.
- Keloids can sometimes be hypersensitive to changes in temperature or clothing friction.
These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life, especially when keloids form in areas of frequent movement or under clothing.
Impact on Mobility or Function
When keloids develop over joints or on large areas of skin, they can restrict movement and lead to functional limitations. This is particularly concerning in areas such as the shoulders, elbows, and knees where large keloids can limit range of motion and daily activities.
Diagnosis of Keloid Scars
Identifying keloid scars usually involves a visual examination by a dermatologist. The distinct appearance of keloids generally makes them recognisable without the need for invasive diagnostic tests. However, in uncertain cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. This involves removing a small piece of the scar tissue and examining it under a microscope to distinguish it from other types of scars or skin conditions.
Preventive Measures for Keloid Scars
Preventing the formation of keloid scars, particularly in individuals who are genetically predisposed or have previously developed keloids, is crucial. While completely preventing keloids can be challenging, several strategies can significantly reduce their likelihood.
Early Intervention in Wound Care
Proper wound care is the first and perhaps most effective line of defense against keloid formation:
- Clean and cover any skin injuries promptly to reduce the risk of infection and scarring.
- Applying pressure to a healing wound has been shown to help prevent keloid formation, especially in high-risk areas like the shoulders and chest.
- Using silicone sheets or gel on new scars can help flatten and soften the scar tissue, potentially preventing keloid development.
Medical Interventions
For those at high risk, immediate medical intervention may be advised:
- Early use of corticosteroid injections during the healing process can help reduce keloid formation in susceptible individuals.
- In some cases, laser treatment can be used on early scars to minimize the risk of keloid formation.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Lifestyle choices can also play a role in minimizing the risk of keloid scars:
- This includes postponing elective surgeries and avoiding piercings or tattoos, especially in keloid-prone areas.
- Taking precautions to prevent burns is important, as they can lead to severe scarring.
Treatment Options at City Dermatology Clinic
At City Dermatology Clinic, we offer a variety of treatments tailored to the specific needs of keloid scar removal, focusing on reducing scar size, alleviating discomfort, and improving cosmetic appearance.
Surgical Removal
For persistent keloids, surgical removal may be the best option. The procedure involves:
- Careful removal of the keloid tissue under local anesthesia.
- Application of corticosteroids or other treatments to prevent recurrence.
Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections are a common treatment for keloids:
- Steroids are injected directly into the scar tissue to help break down collagen fibers.
- Treatments are typically repeated every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the scar’s response.
Additional Treatments
Depending on the case, additional treatments such as cryotherapy or radiation may be considered to enhance outcomes, especially for difficult or recurring keloids.
Living with Keloid Scars
Living with keloid scars can be challenging, but understanding and managing the condition can greatly improve an individual’s quality of life:
- Counseling or support groups can help those feeling self-conscious or emotionally impacted by their scars.
- Regular check-ups with a dermatologist are important to monitor existing keloids and prevent new ones.
