Keloids have been having a recent buzz as of lately. So lets break down what keloids are, warning signs, and how to treat them, if you ever have to deal with a stubborn keloid or keloids.
What are Keloids?
Some individuals have skin that is very sensitive to scarring that causes something known as a keloid. A keloid is an enlarged scar that is raised, and it could vary in color from skin colured, pink, red, or darker than the surrounding skin. Keloids are developed due to the cause of any trauma to the skin. That may be the of a piercing (in most cases), from a wound that healed into a raised scar, or even from acne spots.
Though keloids are not harmful to physical health, they can be unflattering for many and uncomfortable. A keloid is usually formed on the earlobe, shoulders, cheeks, or the middle of the chest, though this can vary. Keloids spread beyond the area of the skin causing damage to skin. Itching can begin to occur, or discomfort due to the stretching of the skin.
While experts do not necessarily know what causes a keloid scar, it is agreed upon that it is a dysfunction of the healing process of a wound. A protein found throughout the body known as collagen, aids in healing injuries to the skin, but when the body produces too much, a keloid can be formed.
Knowing the Difference Between Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars
Keloids can be mistaken as hypertrophic scars. Still, hypertrophic scars stay within the region of the original area of the wound. The wound usually fade over time without any inference or medical attention by a physician. Whereas for a keloids, it spreads and expands beyond the original wound area.
Signs or Symptoms of Keloids
A keloid scar may form within months to a year of the injury. The signs that a keloid may be occurring are:• Shiny, lumpy, raised skin • Discomfort • Itchiness • Thick, irregular scarring• Textured skin that varies from soft to firm, then rubbery • Purplish, reddish, or brown, depending on the complexion
Keloids usually pose a risk to individuals with dark complexions, but this does not mean a lighter complexion cannot get them either. If keloids run in the family, there is a tendency that they can be inherited. If you have had a keloid before; there is always a risk that it can reoccur and can also come up on other parts of the body if a wound is there.
Protective Measures for Keloids and Treatment Options
It is recommended that if an individual is known to be prone to keloids, practice good wound care to prevent the formation of a keloid. While this may prove difficult at times, it is necessary to protect the skin from any trauma or injury. This can help prevent getting a keloid.
Treatment for a keloid is possible. Early detection is critical to help minimise the growth of a keloid. If the concern arises that keloid is believed to be present, visit a dermatologist. This way treatment options that best serve and cater to patient comfort and preference are outlined.
