Keloid Scar – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

Understanding Keloid Scars

Keloid scars are thick, raised areas that develop following skin injuries. They commonly appear on earlobes, shoulders, chest, and cheeks. Some people may develop multiple keloids in different areas if they have a tendency toward this type of scarring.

Keloids don’t pose physical health risks, but they can cause significant emotional discomfort for those who have them. Prevention and early intervention are crucial approaches for managing these scars.

Treatment options exist for keloid scars. If you’re concerned about the appearance or feel of a keloid, healthcare providers can suggest methods to flatten or remove it.

Even with treatment, keloids may persist for many years, return after treatment, or require multiple approaches for management.

Signs of Keloid Scars

Keloid scars can develop several months or even years after an injury. These scars have specific features that set them apart from normal scars:

  • Thick, irregular scarring (commonly appears on earlobes, shoulders, cheeks, or chest)
  • Raised, lumpy skin with a shiny, hairless surface
  • Variable sizes, depending on the original injury and when growth stops
  • Texture ranging from soft to firm and rubbery
  • Color may be reddish, brown, or purple (varies with skin tone)
  • Itchiness in the affected area
  • Discomfort or tenderness

When Medical Help Is Needed

It’s important to seek medical attention soon after noticing a keloid forming. Early treatment can significantly limit its growth.

If you’ve had a keloid for a long time and want to address it now, consider making an appointment with a dermatologist (skin specialist). These doctors have special training to properly treat keloid scars and recommend the best options for your situation.

Causes

Scientists aren’t completely sure why keloid scars form. However, they believe it happens when something goes wrong during healing. Collagen, an important protein for healing wounds, can sometimes be produced in excess, leading to keloids.

Many skin injuries can trigger keloids, including:

  • Bug bites
  • Acne
  • Injections
  • Piercings
  • Burns
  • Hair removal
  • Minor scratches

Sometimes keloids appear without any clear cause. It’s important to know that keloids are neither contagious nor cancerous.

Keloids differ from hypertrophic scars. While keloids grow beyond the original wound area, hypertrophic scars stay within the wound’s boundaries and may fade without treatment over time.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your chance of developing keloids:

  • Skin Color: People with brown or Black skin develop keloids more commonly, though researchers aren’t yet sure why.

  • Genetics: If keloids run in your family or you’ve had one before, you face a higher risk of developing them again.

  • Age: Young adults between 20 and 30 years old have a greater likelihood of developing keloids than other age groups.

Potential Problems

Keloids that form over joint areas can create stiff, hardened tissue. This rigid tissue may limit how well you can move the affected joint. The restricted movement happens because the keloid tissue lacks the flexibility of normal skin.

Prevention

Taking steps to prevent keloids is essential for individuals prone to developing them, especially if you’ve had them before. Good wound care is the first line of defense.

Clean any cuts with mild soap and water. Then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly and reapply as needed throughout the day.

Doctors may recommend using pressure pads or silicone gel sheets on healing wounds. Adults should follow these steps for six months after injury, while children may need to continue for up to 18 months.

For ear piercings, pressure earrings can help prevent keloid formation.

Avoiding skin injuries altogether is also effective. Consider these preventive measures:

  • Skip body piercings and tattoos
  • Avoid elective surgeries when possible
  • Be careful with everyday activities to prevent minor injuries
  • Watch out for cuts, scratches, and even ingrown hairs

If surgery is necessary, talk with your doctor beforehand about your keloid tendency. They can use techniques that lower your risk.

Always follow post-surgery care instructions carefully.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.