Keloid scars are one of the most stubborn and challenging types of scarring to treat. More than just a cosmetic concern, these thick, raised scars can cause discomfort, itching, and even emotional distress. Whether they form after surgery, injury, acne, or piercings, keloids can continue to grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound and are often resistant to standard scar treatments. But there is hope—thanks to advances in scar management, today’s options are more effective than ever.
What Makes Keloids Different?
Unlike flat or atrophic scars, keloids result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. They often appear shiny, rubbery, and raised—sometimes red or darker than the surrounding skin. Keloids are more common in individuals with darker skin tones and often occur on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and jawline.
The real challenge with keloids is that they can continue to grow long after a wound has healed. Treating them requires a proactive, multifaceted approach aimed at both reducing their size and preventing recurrence.
1. Silicone-Based Products: Your First Line of Defense
Silicone gels and sheets remain a gold standard in keloid treatment. When used consistently, products like Scarfade Gel help flatten raised scars, reduce redness, and soften scar tissue over time. Silicone creates a protective barrier over the scar, hydrating the area and regulating collagen production. For best results, apply silicone gel to clean, dry skin twice daily for several months.
2. Pressure Therapy: A Proven Option for Ear and Body Keloids
Pressure therapy has long been used to prevent and reduce keloid formation, especially following ear piercings or surgery. Special pressure earrings, pads, or garments apply constant compression to the area, helping to restrict blood flow and reduce collagen buildup. When combined with silicone treatment, pressure therapy can significantly improve outcomes for keloid-prone individuals.
3. Corticosteroid Injections: Flattening from the Inside Out
For larger or particularly stubborn keloids, dermatologists often recommend corticosteroid injections. These anti-inflammatory treatments are injected directly into the scar, helping to shrink it and relieve itching or pain. In many cases, steroid injections are combined with silicone therapy to enhance results.
4. Laser and Cryotherapy: Targeted Treatments
Laser therapy, particularly pulsed dye lasers, can reduce redness and flatten keloids over multiple sessions. Cryotherapy—freezing the scar tissue with liquid nitrogen—can also be used, especially for smaller keloids. These methods are most effective when paired with silicone treatment and follow-up care.
5. Surgical Removal with Post-Op Care
In some cases, surgical removal is necessary. However, cutting out a keloid can sometimes trigger it to grow back even larger unless proper post-operative treatment is used. Surgeons typically recommend combining excision with radiation therapy, pressure garments, or immediate silicone application to reduce recurrence.
Say Goodbye to Keloids, Not Confidence
Keloid scars may be persistent, but with the right tools and strategies, they don’t have to be permanent. From advanced silicone gels like Scarfade to medical interventions, treating keloids is about consistency and customization. If you’re living with thick, raised scars, consult a dermatologist and commit to a tailored treatment plan—because clearer, smoother skin is within reach.