Keloid Scars

What are Keloids or Kelod Scars?

Keloids, or keloid scars, are the buildup of collagen caused by an overgrowth of fibrous tissue resulting from damage to the skin. Damage to the skin can be from numerous things, accident or self inflicted, such as cuts, scrapes, burns, piercings, and surgeries. Keloids are usually pink or red and are raised above the normal skin. Keloids are different from other scars in that they have the ability to stretch beyond the original boundary of the wound. They can be very painful, itchy, and even affect muscle function.

Keloid scars vs hypertrophic scars

Keloid scars are often confused with hypertrophic scars, but they are very different. It is important to distinguish the different types of scars so that the best treatment possible can be put into place. Under normal circumstances after an injury a flat pale scar is left behind. Hypertrophic scars are often thick and red and take take more than a year to fade on their own. To help aid in the recovery process, steroid injections can be given to flatten the scar and reduce redness. Hypertrophic scars do not extend past the injury site. Keloid scars can form from a normal scar sometime after the injury has occurred. They can come about from an irritated pimple that has been scratched. Burns, piercings, and surgeries are also causes of keloid scars.

Keloid scars are very unattractive. They are often shiny, red or pink, and rubbery feeling. They may start out small but can spread way beyond the point of the original injury. Keloids are painful and itchy and usually appear on the back, shoulders, chest, or earlobes.

The Root of the Problem

It is not known why some people develop keloid scars more often and more easily than others. Some studies show that the damaged skin cell’s inability to perceive and correctly respond to their microenvironment is the main cause of keloids.

Keloid scars can be developed by anyone but they are much more common in those with darker colored skin. Because women tend to have more body piercings than men, they are also more prone to be affected by keloid scarring.

Prevention

The best keloid cure is to prevent one before it starts. Those who are prone to keloid scars should not undergo cosmetic surgery or get piercings because chances are another keloid will develop. There’s no guarantee that a keloid will not develop after an injury, but there are steps that can be taken to aid in the prevention.

At the initial period of injury firm pressure should immediately be placed on the wound. This will help to stop the bleeding so that your body can begin the healing process. The wound should be cleaned with cool running water and mild soap to rid the wound from any dirt or debris. Keep the wound covered with a bandage to keep out bacteria and other toxins. Silicone gels are very effective for this because they form a barrier on the skin locking in moisture while keeping out germs.