Keloids

Are Keloids always genetic?

Although individuals with darker pigmented skin are 15 times more susceptible to form keloid scars, keloids can occur in people of all skin types and Men and women are equally affected. There also has been shown some degree of genetic predisposition in keloid scar formation; thus, the tendency for keloid development can be passed down from generation to generation.

Can a keloid be cancerous?

Keloids are not malignant, meaning that they are not life-threatening skin lesions. However, they are often cosmetically disfiguring, which can cause emotional or psychological distress and even affect self-esteem. Some keloids can cause restriction of motion if they occur over joints (e.g. shoulders). Keloids can also be uncomfortable as they can itch, and sometimes can even be painful.

Can you get a tattoo with keloid scarring?

If you have a history of keloid scarring in your family, you should avoid getting inked. Those suffering from this condition may have an inflamed reaction to tattoos. This can lead to keloid scarring – and in rare cases may cause permanent disfigurement.

Can keloid be treated?

There are a number of other treatment options that may be used, depending on the size and location of the keloid. Some of them include injection of corticosteroids intraleasonly, silicone sheets, mechanical compression, radiotherapy, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and topical creams. 
Surgical removal can be performed, but as surgery causes trauma to the skin, it can cause the keloid to recur, sometimes larger than the original keloid. For better treatment response visit the dermatologist clinic.

Do keloids ever go away on their own?

A keloid is a scar that grows too much beyond the site of injury. These can be tough to treat. Keloids don't tend to go away on their own, though sometimes they will fade over time.

How do you prevent a keloid?

To prevent keloid treat Injuries and Burns Immediately. As soon as the wound heals, begin using silicone sheets or gel. It can help prevent keloids from forming and reduce the size of existing scars. Moisturize the wound to prevent the scar from drying up and possibly reopening. If you smoke, stop.  Smoking decreases blood circulation in the skin, which contribute to inadequate wound healing and possibly scar formation. If you are prone to keloid scarring avoid Body Piercings and Tattoos. If you have higher grades of acne, don't pop pimples it can develop into keloid scars. So consult with a skilled dermatologist for proper skin care regime. Use a sunscreen that offers SPF 50,  broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance. 

What is keloid and what causes it?

Keloids are abnormal fibrous reactions to trauma, inflammation, surgery or burns in predisposed individuals, particularly in the Afro-Caribbean skin, and most occur between the ages of 10 and 30 years. They can be irregularly shaped with "claw-like" extensions into normal skin. They are disfiguring, painful or pruritic, especially when actively growing. 
Trauma, skin tension and hormones are aetiological factors. Most keloids commence within a year of trauma in areas of highest skin tension: on the upper back, shoulders, anterior chest and upper arms.

What is an earlobe keloid?

Earlobe keloid is benign, fibrous proliferation which develops in predisposed persons at sites of cutaneous injury or as the result of ear piercing, burns or surgical procedures. These usually appear as shiny, smooth, globular growths on one or both sides of the earlobe. A frequent complaint is a cosmetic embarrassment but sometime pruritus, pain, paraesthesias may occur.

What is a hypertrophic scar?

Hypertrophic scars occur soon after the trauma or inflammation. These are limited to the site of the wound and regress in months to years.
keloids appear from weeks to months after the initiating lesion, grow beyond the wound limits and then stabilize. Keloids seldom regress spontaneously but may soften in the elderly.

Is tea tree oil good for keloid?

Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, more commonly known as the Australian tea tree. There's no evidence to support the effectiveness of tea tree oil on existing scars, whether they're acne scars, keloids, or hypertrophic scars. It may be able to reduce your risk of developing another one from a future injury. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help to fight bacterial infection which can increase the chances of scarring.

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