In our lives, skin issues such as acne and scars often trouble us, and the appearance of keloids can confuse and cause anxiety for many. Today, we will explore this specific type of scar and the available treatment options.
Keloids, simply put, are a form of hypertrophic scar, which is an extreme type of proliferative scar. Typically, this condition appears after a wound has healed and is noticeable due to its raised structure, resembling a crab’s claw. It not only affects appearance but can also lead to discomfort, including pain, tightness, and itching in some patients. The formation of keloids is related to individual constitution, meaning not everyone who is injured will develop keloids or hypertrophic scars.
At home, self-care to combat keloids is essential. Applying moderate pressure can effectively alleviate this type of scar. For example, burn victims often wear pressure garments; if the wound is smaller, silicone sheets or tape can be used to maintain a pressure environment around the wound. It is generally recommended to start applying pressure one to two weeks after the wound has healed, maintaining at least 12 hours of pressure daily, which can help reduce scar proliferation.
Next, the most common method is intralesional steroid injections. Although the dosage of steroids is relatively low, the pain experienced during the injection process often makes patients uncomfortable. This treatment is time-consuming and requires patience, usually necessitating multiple injections to see effects. Additionally, cryotherapy is also an option, as it can help reduce the vascular supply to the scar tissue. While each session is brief, it requires repeated treatments.
Finally, laser therapy is one of the most popular options today. The most commonly used carbon dioxide laser can effectively penetrate the deep layers of the scar, promoting collagen regeneration and improving the scar’s appearance. Moreover, if a patient continues to experience issues with discoloration, pulsed dye lasers can help address redness. Importantly, if the scar is excessively thick, surgical excision may also need to be considered to achieve the best results.
In summary, the treatment options for keloids are diverse and should be tailored to each patient’s situation. The effectiveness of treatment can also vary due to individual differences. Therefore, when faced with this type of scarring, it is advisable to consult a doctor early on to seek the most suitable treatment methods, thereby achieving better results under professional guidance.