What should you know about keloid burns?

During healing, the skin makes collagen to close and strengthen the injury. With a keloid, scar tissue keeps building after the wound has closed and grows past the burn's edges. It can look shiny, firm, darker or lighter than nearby skin, and may restrict movement when it crosses a joint. A raised lump can also have other causes, so an examination helps distinguish a keloid from an active infection or another scar type.

Arrange a dermatology assessment if the scar is growing, itchy, painful or affecting movement. Treatment may involve steroid injections into the scar, pressure or silicone-based care, laser treatment, freezing, or surgery; the choice depends on its size, site, thickness and skin response. Do not cut, scratch or repeatedly irritate the area. Protect healed skin from sun exposure, and follow wound-care instructions if the burn is still open.

Seek prompt medical care for spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, fever, worsening swelling or pain, or a wound that is reopening. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial or neck swelling, or a burn that is extensive or deep. A scar that changes quickly, bleeds without being rubbed, or develops an ulcer also needs assessment.

Ask whether the raised area is a keloid or another scar, whether movement could become limited, which treatment fits the burn location, and how recurrence risk will be reduced after treatment.