What to expect from pulsed dye laser treatment for keloid scars

Pulsed dye laser delivers targeted light to blood vessels that contribute to the scar’s red or purple appearance. It may soften colour and sometimes improve the texture or discomfort of a keloid, but it does not remove the raised scar in one visit. A clinician may combine laser with other keloid treatments, depending on the scar’s thickness, location, age, and tendency to return.

During treatment, protective eyewear is used. Cooling may be applied, and the pulses can feel like quick snaps or stings. The treated area may look darker, redder, or swollen immediately afterwards.

Tell the clinician about previous keloids, medicines that increase bruising, active skin infection, recent tanning, and any tendency toward changes in skin colour after injury. Follow the clinic’s instructions about shaving, creams, and sun exposure before the appointment.

Afterward, use only the recommended cleanser and dressing, avoid picking crusts, and protect the area from sunlight. Cool compresses can ease warmth or swelling if your clinician approves. Keep follow-up visits because improvement is assessed across the healing period and further sessions may be considered.

Contact the treating clinic promptly if pain, heat, swelling, or redness is worsening rather than settling, or if blisters, drainage, fever, or spreading redness develops. Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, facial swelling, or a rapidly expanding reaction. New growth, persistent bleeding, or a wound that is not healing also needs review.

Ask whether the laser is intended to change colour, thickness, itch, or tenderness; whether another keloid treatment will be paired with it; how your skin tone affects settings; what aftercare products to use; and how recurrence will be watched.