How to Get Rid of Keloids: Treatment Options and Prevention Methods
If you have ever suffered from a keloid, you know how bothersome it can be. Keloids are an overgrowth of scar tissue that can be difficult to get rid of. But, don’t worry because the good news is that there are different treatments and prevention methods to help reduce their appearance or prevent them from forming in the first place.
Understanding Keloids
Keloids are a type of raised scar tissue that develops as a result of an injury or trauma. They can be differentiated from other types of scars in that they are much larger and may continue to grow over time. You can develop keloids on any area of your body, but the most commonly affected body parts are the chest, back, shoulders, earlobes, and jawline.
Keloids develop when excess collagen builds up in the tissue around the wound, causing the scar to continue to grow beyond the initial injury site. Certain people may be more prone to keloids than others, such as those with darker skin tones. This is because darker skin tones produce more melanin, which can interfere with the wound healing process and raises the chances of developing keloids.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are one of the most common treatment options for keloids. They are especially useful for small keloids or new ones. You can use silicone sheets and gels as they can help in flattening and reducing the appearance of keloids. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the product consistently to get the best result.
Topical corticosteroid creams are also a common treatment option for keloids. They reduce inflammation level and can help to flatten and eventually shrink keloids. When using these, it’s best to start as soon as the keloid forms. However, these creams may take several months to show improvement, so be patient and persistent. Vitamin E oil is also deemed to be effective to heal scars. Apply it topically to the keloid and massage it into the skin.
Other topical treatments that may be recommended are retinoid creams, which help increase cell turnover and promote collagen production. Occlusive dressings, cryotherapy, and pressure pads can also be used as a supplement to other treatments.
Injections
Corticosteroid injections are administered right into the keloid. They can be helpful for reducing the size and softening the tissue of keloids. To achieve optimal results, shots will be repeated every few weeks until the keloid shrinks. It’s important to note that corticosteroid injections are not suitable for everyone, particularly for those who have diabetes or took steroid medication before. The procedure may also lead to certain side effects, such as increased hair growth or skin atrophy.
Surgical Removal
In severe cases, surgical removal of the keloid may be an option. A surgical procedure can be performed to cut and remove the keloid, and the wound will then be stitched. This procedure is not risk-free as there is a risk of keloids growing back. The size of the keloid may also increase after removal. It’s important to consult with your dermatologist to determine if surgical removal is the best option for you.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is another treatment option to consider, particularly for stubborn keloids. This treatment involves using a laser to damage the tissue and encourage new collagen production, which will lead to a shrinking effect in the keloid. There are different types of laser therapy available, and it’s essential to speak with your dermatologist to determine the most appropriate type for your needs.
Natural Remedies
Using natural remedies is another way to help treat keloids. Tea tree oil helps to soothe the skin and reduce the size of the keloid. Aloe vera is also good to moisturise and can aid in reducing inflammation. However, these items are not scientifically proven to be effective and may not work for everyone.
Prevention
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help prevent keloids from forming in the first place:
- Avoid piercings or getting tattoos in areas of the body that are prone to keloids
- Use sunscreen to protect scars from sun damage
- Keep your skin hydrated and healthy
- Don’t aggravate any wounds or scars
Conclusion
Keloids can be challenging to get rid of, so it’s important to find a treatment that works for you. Depending on the size of the keloid, you may try topical treatments, injections, surgical removal, or laser therapy. It’s always best to consult with your dermatologist to determine which treatment option is appropriate for you. The good news is that keloids can also be prevented from forming by following the tips above. Remember that seeking medical advice is always recommended if you’re concerned about keloids.