What should you know about keloid care?

A keloid is an overgrown scar that rises above the skin and extends outside the original wound. It can be firm, smooth, itchy, tender or sensitive to clothing and touch. Some scars remain stable while others enlarge gradually. The location matters: a scar over a joint can interfere with movement, while one near an eye, mouth or ear may cause local functional problems. A clinician can check whether the appearance fits a keloid.

Keep the area moisturised once the skin is fully closed, protect it from sun, and avoid picking, piercing or unnecessary friction. Note changes in size, colour, itch and pain so you can describe them accurately. Options may include intralesional steroid injections, pressure or silicone products, laser treatment, cryotherapy or excision. Keloids can return after treatment, so planned follow-up and preventive care are part of the decision.

Book an appointment if a scar is enlarging, repeatedly itchy, painful, cracking or restricting movement. Seek prompt care when there is warmth, spreading redness, drainage, fever or sudden swelling, since these features can signal infection or another problem. A non-healing area, unexpected bleeding or a rapid change deserves examination rather than home treatment.

Ask what the scar needs now, how long a treatment plan may involve follow-up, what side effects to watch for, and which daily measures could reduce irritation or recurrence.