Keloid permanent treatment: what to know

Keloids are overgrown scars that extend beyond the original injury. They may feel firm, tender, itchy, or tight, and their colour can differ from nearby skin. Treatment may soften or flatten the scar and reduce symptoms, but the skin can still have a tendency to make excess scar tissue. The right plan depends on whether the keloid is new, established, changing, or previously treated.

A clinician should confirm the diagnosis before treatment, particularly when a lump is growing, painful, or has no clear history of injury. Other scars, cysts, and infections can look similar.

A dermatologist may discuss steroid injections into the scar, cryotherapy, laser procedures, or surgical removal. More than one method may be used, and reviews help identify early regrowth. The treatment area may need protection from friction, picking, and unnecessary trauma. Follow wound-care instructions closely after any procedure, and do not apply unprescribed acids or attempt to shave the lump off.

Tell the clinician about prior keloids, family history, previous procedures, medicines, and any planned piercing or surgery. This information can change prevention and follow-up advice.

Book an assessment for a scar that is expanding past a wound, becoming increasingly itchy or painful, or interfering with sleep, movement, jewellery, or clothing. Seek prompt care for pus, fever, spreading redness, warmth, sudden bleeding, or a fast change in size or colour.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, what improvement is realistic, whether combined treatment is appropriate, how often reviews are needed, and what signs suggest regrowth or infection. Ask how to protect the area during healing and whether future skin procedures should be avoided or modified.