What are the risk factors for keloid scars?

A keloid can develop after surgery, piercing, burns, cuts, injections, or inflamed skin conditions such as acne. The scar grows beyond the original wound and may feel firm, smooth, itchy, tender, or tight. People who have formed a keloid before have a stronger personal risk, and a close family pattern can also matter. Keloids are more often seen on areas such as the chest, shoulders, upper back, jawline, and earlobes, although they can occur elsewhere.

Tell the clinician performing a piercing, procedure, or surgery if you or a relative has made keloids. Keep wounds clean, covered as advised, and protected from unnecessary tension or picking. Do not pierce through an existing keloid or start home treatment on a growing scar without advice. Early review can open options such as silicone-based care, injections, pressure, or other treatments; removing a keloid alone can allow it to return, so prevention planning matters.

Arrange an assessment if a scar keeps enlarging beyond the wound, becomes painful or itchy, restricts movement, or catches on clothing or jewellery. Seek prompt care for warmth, pus, spreading redness, fever, or a wound that is opening. A clinician can distinguish a keloid from a hypertrophic scar, active acne, infection, or another growth and discuss treatment suited to its site.

Ask whether your scar is a keloid or another type of scar, which procedures carry added risk for you, how to protect a healing wound, and whether treatment should combine scar reduction with recurrence prevention.