
Keloid Scars: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips

What Are Keloids?
Keloids are raised, thickened areas of scar tissue that extend beyond the original injury. Unlike normal scars, keloids continue to grow over time and may become itchy, painful, or cosmetically bothersome.
What Causes Them?
Keloids form when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process.
They can develop after:
- Cuts or surgical incisions
- Acne or chickenpox
- Piercings or tattoos
- Burns or bug bites
Who's at Risk?
- People with darker skin tones (especially those of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent)
- Individuals with a family history of keloids
- People between ages 10 and 30
Can You Prevent Keloids?
While not all keloids can be prevented, there are ways to reduce your risk:
- Avoid unnecessary piercings or tattoos if you’re prone to keloids
- Keep wounds clean and covered during healing
- Use pressure dressings or silicone sheets on healing wounds (if advised)
- Always follow post-op wound care instructions from your provider
Treatment Options for Keloids
- Corticosteroid Injections
These help reduce inflammation and flatten the scar over time. Multiple sessions may be needed.
- Laser Therapy
Certain lasers can improve texture, color, and size. Laser treatments are often combined with other therapies.
- Cryotherapy
Freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen can help reduce its size, especially for smaller scars.
- Surgical Removal
In some cases, the keloid can be surgically excised, but this carries a risk of recurrence, so it’s often paired with injections or radiation afterward.
- Silicone Gel or Sheets
These can help flatten and soften the scar when used consistently over time.
Why See a Dermatologist?
Keloid treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. A dermatologist can assess the scar and recommend a safe, customized approach based on size, location, and skin type.
Let’s Treat Your Keloid with Care
If you’re dealing with a keloid or concerned about a scar, we’re here to help. Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.
Call 718-491-5800 or click here to schedule a consultation with our board-certified dermatologists.
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