Keloid scars are an unwelcome side effect of a number of injuries and medical procedures.

They are caused when a person’s body replaces normal tissue with an excessive amount of fibrous scar tissue. This can lead to thick, raised scars that can be difficult to live with, both emotionally and physically. While more research is needed, it is possible to manage and even treat keloid scars. In this article, we will look at the causes, treatments, and coping strategies to keloid scars.

What Are Keloid Scars? 

Keloid scars are raised, thickened patches of skin caused by an overproduction of collagen at the site of a wound. They are most commonly found following ear piercings, injury, and surgery. Keloids form when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. The collagen can form a raised bump or bumps that are red or purple in color. These scars can be painful and itching, and even cause physical deformities, especially on the face, neck, and chest.

While most scars occur in an area where skin damage has occurred, keloid scars can exceed the original size of the wound. They grow in size as the body continues to produce collagen, and are most likely to appear in areas of the body that are constantly being stretched or moved, such as the earlobes, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. These scars may take months or even years to fully form and can be both unsightly and uncomfortable.

Causes of Keloid Scars

 The exact cause of keloid scars is unknown. However, they are thought to be caused by an overproduction of collagen at the injury site. This is a result of genetics, hormones, or even an imbalance in your immune system. There are certain factors that may increase the likelihood of developing a keloid, including:

•Darker skin types •Family history of keloids •Exposure to radiation •Age •Acne •Piercings

Treatments for Keloid Scarring Keloid scarring can be a difficult condition to treat. However, there are a few treatments that may help to reduce the size and symptoms of keloid scars, including:

•Steroid injections: Steroid injections reduce inflammation and can encourage the scar tissue to soften and shrink.

•Surgery: In some cases, a keloid scar can be surgically removed.

•Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy is a procedure where the keloid is frozen with liquid nitrogen to form a small scab. This encourages the body to form new tissue, which will eventually replace the old scar tissue.

•Laser therapy: Laser therapy uses focused light to target and remove the damaged cells of a keloid scar. •Pressure dressings: Pressure dressings, such as elastic bands, can help to flatten the keloid and reduce its size over time.

Coping With Keloid Scars Keloid scarring can be difficult to live with, both emotionally and physically. Here are some tips to help you cope with keloid scars.

•Take care of your skin: Keloids are more likely to form in irritated or damaged skin, so it’s important to protect your skin and take care of any wounds.

•Check your products: Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers that are free of irritating ingredients.

•Be patient: Scars take time to heal, so be patient with the process.

•Talk to a professional: Don’t be afraid to speak with a doctor or dermatologist if you are concerned about your scars.