What should you know about silicone keloid gel?

A keloid is scar tissue that extends beyond the original injury and may remain raised, firm, itchy, tender, or darker than nearby skin. Silicone gel forms a thin layer over closed skin, which can reduce rubbing and help keep the surface conditioned. It does not remove the excess tissue, confirm that a lump is a keloid, or prevent every recurrence.

A lump after acne, piercing, vaccination, surgery, or another injury can have different causes. [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) should be assessed when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Clean and dry the area, apply a thin layer as directed, and allow it to dry before covering it with clothing. Use only on intact skin and stop if the product causes a worsening rash, cracking, or burning. Do not pick, pierce, or cut the lump. A dermatologist may combine silicone care with [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/), laser treatment, freezing, or surgery depending on its size, location, symptoms, and behaviour.

Arrange an assessment if the lump is enlarging, painful, repeatedly itchy, restricting movement, or extending beyond an old wound. Seek prompt care if it bleeds, ulcerates, becomes hot, or releases pus. A rapidly changing or unexplained lump should not be treated as a keloid without examination.

Ask whether the growth is a keloid or another lesion, whether silicone is suitable for its surface, and how recurrence risk affects the treatment plan.