How to Get Rid of Keloids: Effective Treatments and Prevention

Keloids are raised scars that can grow much larger than the original wound. They occur when the skin’s healing process goes into overdrive, producing excessive collagen. While keloids are not medically dangerous, they can be itchy, painful, and cosmetically bothersome. Many people seek effective ways to get rid of these scars and prevent new ones from forming. This article explores the various treatment options available, from medical procedures to home care strategies, helping you understand how to manage and reduce keloids.

Understanding Keloids and Why They Form

Keloids are more than just typical scars. They extend beyond the original injury site and can continue to grow over time. They can develop after minor skin injuries, such as cuts, burns, acne, piercings, surgical incisions, or even insect bites. While anyone can develop keloids, they are more common in individuals with darker skin tones. Genetics also play a significant role, meaning if keloids run in your family, you are more likely to develop them.

Diagnosis of a keloid is usually straightforward. A doctor can typically identify a keloid simply by examining the skin. In some instances, a skin biopsy might be necessary to rule out other skin conditions, such as skin cancer.

Effective Treatment Options for Keloid Removal

While there’s no guaranteed way to completely eliminate keloids, various treatments can significantly reduce their size, improve their appearance, and alleviate symptoms like itching and pain. Often, a combination of treatments yields the best results. It’s important to note that keloids can be persistent, and even after successful treatment, they may recur.

Medical Treatments for Keloids

Corticosteroid Injections: For smaller keloids, injections of corticosteroids, such as cortisone, directly into the scar can be very effective. These injections help to flatten the keloid over time. Typically, monthly injections are required for up to six months to see noticeable improvement. Potential side effects include skin thinning, spider veins, and changes in skin color around the injection site.
Cryotherapy (Freezing): Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen. This method is more suitable for smaller keloids and may require repeated treatments. Side effects can include blistering, pain, and loss of skin color in the treated area.
Laser Therapy: Pulsed-dye laser treatments can be used to flatten larger keloids, reduce redness, and alleviate itching. Multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart, are usually necessary. Laser therapy can be combined with corticosteroid injections for enhanced results. People with darker skin tones are more prone to side effects like skin discoloration, blistering, and crusting.
Radiation Therapy: Low-dose X-ray radiation can be used to shrink keloids, particularly after surgical removal to prevent recurrence. Repeat treatments may be needed. However, radiation therapy carries potential long-term risks, including skin complications and a slightly increased risk of cancer.
Surgical Removal: Surgical excision of the keloid is an option, especially for keloids that haven’t responded to other treatments. However, surgery alone has a high recurrence rate, ranging from 45% to 100%. To improve outcomes, surgery is often combined with other methods like corticosteroid injections, radiation therapy, or compression therapy to minimize the chances of the keloid returning.
Compression Dressings: For new keloids or after surgical removal, compression dressings made of stretchy materials can be applied to the affected area. These dressings apply pressure to the wound as it heals, which can help prevent or reduce scar formation. To be effective, compression dressings need to be worn for 12 to 24 hours a day for several months, which can be uncomfortable for some individuals.
Topical Corticosteroid Creams: Prescription-strength corticosteroid creams can help reduce itching and inflammation associated with keloids.
Silicone Gel: Nonprescription silicone gel sheets or ointments can be applied to keloids to help soften and flatten them, and reduce itchiness.

Alternative and Emerging Treatments

While most alternative medicine approaches lack robust scientific backing for keloid removal, some studies suggest potential benefits from onion extract. Topical or oral onion extract may help improve the appearance of keloids and reduce discomfort.

Ongoing research is exploring promising future treatments for keloids. These include:

Experimental Topical Creams and Injectables: Researchers are developing new topical creams and injectable medications aimed at reducing and stopping keloid growth.
Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox): Studies are investigating the use of Botox injections to improve wound healing and potentially reduce keloid formation.
Genetic Markers: Identifying genetic markers in keloid tissue could lead to more targeted and personalized treatments.
Stem Cell Therapy: Stem cell therapy is being explored as a potential future treatment for various wound-healing issues, including keloids.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Keloid Management

In addition to medical treatments, several self-care measures can help manage keloids and prevent them from worsening:

Wound Care: Proper wound care is crucial, especially after any skin injury. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding wound cleaning and dressing to minimize the risk of keloid formation.
Corticosteroid Cream: Over-the-counter corticosteroid creams can help relieve itchiness.
Silicone Gel: Nonprescription silicone gel can also ease itching and may help improve the scar’s appearance.
Protect from Re-injury: Avoid irritating the keloid with friction or further injury. Choose loose-fitting clothing and protect the area from bumps and scrapes.
Sun Protection: Sun exposure can darken keloids, making them more noticeable and potentially causing permanent discoloration. Protect keloids from the sun by covering them with clothing or applying sunscreen with a high SPF whenever you are outdoors.

Preparing for a Doctor’s Appointment

If you are concerned about a new scar that might be a keloid, or if you want to seek treatment for an existing keloid, it’s important to consult your doctor. They may refer you to a dermatologist, a specialist in skin conditions.

Before your appointment, prepare a list of:

Symptoms: Describe any symptoms you are experiencing, such as itching, pain, or growth, and how long you’ve had them.
Medical History: Include information about past injuries, surgeries, and family history of keloids.
Questions: Write down questions you want to ask your doctor to make the most of your appointment.

Questions to ask your doctor might include:

Am I at risk of developing keloids?
How can I reduce the risk of keloid formation?
What are the treatment options for my keloid?
What are the potential side effects of each treatment?
How soon can I expect to see results from treatment?
What is the likelihood of the keloid returning after treatment?
What can I do at home to care for my keloid and prevent it from worsening?

Conclusion

Getting rid of keloids can be challenging, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, various effective treatments are available to help manage and reduce keloids. From injections and laser therapy to surgical removal and home care strategies, working closely with your doctor or dermatologist is key to developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns. While keloids can sometimes recur, proactive management and consistent care can significantly improve their appearance and alleviate associated symptoms, enhancing your quality of life and confidence.