Microneedling for keloid scars: what to know

A keloid is raised scar tissue that grows beyond the original wound. Microneedling deliberately injures the skin, so the healing response may add inflammation or encourage further thickening in someone who forms keloids. It is different from treating a flat, indented, or mildly uneven scar. A dermatologist may first confirm that the bump is a keloid rather than a hypertrophic scar, active infection, or another skin growth.

If treatment is considered, the goal may be texture or appearance rather than removal. Existing keloids can itch, feel tender, or continue enlarging, and those features influence the plan.

Arrange an in-person assessment before using a home roller or booking a procedure. Tell the clinician about previous raised scars, recent wounds, skin conditions, medicines, and any earlier injections or surgery. A specialist may recommend scar-directed care first, such as silicone-based care, injections, pressure therapy, or another approach suited to the scar.

Do not needle an active rash, infected area, open wound, or a keloid that is rapidly changing. If a clinician does treat nearby skin, follow the aftercare plan, protect the area from sun, and avoid picking during healing. The technology used may be a pen; learn more about the [Microneedling Pen](/technology/microneedling-pen/) and the [Microneedling](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/microneedling/) procedure.

Seek medical advice for a scar that grows beyond the wound, becomes increasingly painful or itchy, bleeds, ulcerates, or develops spreading redness, warmth, drainage, or fever. Those changes need assessment rather than cosmetic needling. After any procedure, contact the treating clinic promptly if swelling, pain, redness, or discharge is worsening instead of settling.

Ask whether the scar is a keloid or another scar type, whether microneedling could stimulate growth, which treatment should come first, and how recurrence would be monitored. You can also ask how a proposed treatment compares with [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/) or [RF Microneedling](/treatments/laser-and-energy/rf-microneedling/).