At WellMedica we know how difficult it can be to develop a keloid scar. It can leave many self-conscious, and frustrated. A lot is still unknown about this skin condition, but here at WellMedica we offer a series of information on keloid scarring as well as treatment.
A keloid is a scar that will grow bigger and wider than initial injury when scar tissue grows excessively. They are usually firm, smooth, and hard growths due the spontaneous formation of scar formation. Places they are typically found on the body are the shoulder, breastbone, upper chest, and back, earlobes, and face. They are most common in the breastbone and shoulder area, but can occur anywhere on the body. Sun exposure can cause keloids to become darker; therefore avoiding sun for these areas is usually encouraged.
What causes them?
They arise soon after injury, or can even develop months later. Typical injuries this can occur after are surgical incision sites, acne scars, ear piercings, burns, vaccination sites, scratches, and chicken pox scars. The precise reason that wound healing sometimes leads to keloid formation is under investigation but is not yet clear.
Who is prone to getting a keloid scar?
Most people never develop this kind of scarring. However, others are more prone to them. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), an estimated 10 percent of people experience keloid scarring. Those who are prone to them can develop keloid scars after minor injuries such as acne spots or bug bites. Those with a darker complexion are more likely to develop a keloid scar. If you are pregnant, and under 30 the likelihood of you developing a keloid scar also increases. Those with a genetic component, meaning their parents or someone in their family experienced keloids, are more likely to develop them. Men and women are equally like to develop them.
Is a keloid scar dangerous?
Keloids are not dangerous. People tend to seek treatment for cosmetic reasons specifically. Some experience pain or irritation with these scars, but they do not change into skin cancer. The problem with developing a keloid scar is often times it grows back after treatment, demonstrating why this type of scarring is so frustrating for patients.
Keloid Scar Treatment
As mentioned before it is difficult to treat a keloid scar as often times they grow back, and sometimes come back even bigger than before treatment. This is because keloid scarring is the result of the body’s attempt to repair itself. That’s why we recommend going to a Board Certified Doctor who has treated keloids in the past, and has years of experience with this type of skin condition. At WellMedica our Doctor, Dima Ali treats keloid scars with a series of different treatments that she personalizes based on each individual’s condition. Dr. Dima uses corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, and laser treatments to reduce scar tissue. Throughout the years she has treated thousands of these type of scars, with amazing results!
