How Do Keloids Form?

Keloids are raised, irregularly shaped scars that form when the body produces too much collagen in response to an injury or wound. They can appear anywhere on the body and typically grow larger than the original wound. Keloid formation is most common among people with darker skin and can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. While they are usually harmless, they can be uncomfortable and unsightly. For these reasons, many people seek treatment to reduce the appearance of keloids. 

What Are Keloids?

Keloids are raised scars that form when too much collagen is produced in response to a wound or injury. They occur most often on the chest, back, shoulders, and earlobes. They don’t pose any health risks, but they can be painful and itchy. Keloid scars tend to be larger than the original wound, are usually purple or pink in color, and have a rubbery feel.

Symptoms Of Keloids:

A keloid scar can develop in the months to years following a wound. Common signs and symptoms of this condition include:

• Raised, irregularly shaped scar
• Red, brown, purple, or pink in colour
• Hard and rubbery texture
• Itchiness or discomfort
• Tenderness to the touch 

What Are The Causes of Keloids?

Keloid formation is the result of an overactive wound-healing process in which too much collagen is produced. This can be due to genetics, but certain environmental factors can increase your chances of forming a keloid scar. These include: 

• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun
• Acne 
• Surgery
• Vaccinations 
• Piercing 

At times, Keloids form without any specific reason. They are not cancerous or contagious.

Are you wondering what is inside keloids? Well, keloids are made up of various components, including excess collagen and other proteins, fibroblasts (the cells that make the structural tissue in the skin), inflammatory cells, and sometimes even fat. All these components come together to form a mass or growth over the skin.

How quickly do keloids form?

Keloids can form very quickly after the skin is injured. On average, it takes about 4-6 weeks for a keloid to become noticeable. However, it may take up to several months or even years for a large keloid to grow and reach its full size.

Most people with keloids have this doubt- are keloids cancerous? Keloids are not cancerous and cannot spread. They are benign growths that may appear disfiguring but are not dangerous in any way.

Do keloids grow with stress?

No, stress does not cause keloids to grow. While it is true that the body's hormones can affect the growth and development of a keloid, it is not directly related to stress or emotional upset.

Can keloids be prevented?

In some cases, simple preventive measures such as avoiding certain activities that could cause skin injury or using protective clothing when engaging in activities that could result in an injury can help reduce the risk of developing a keloid. However, due to the unpredictability of the body's response to skin trauma, it is not always possible to prevent keloids from forming.

Are keloids genetic?

The tendency to form keloids is more common among certain ethnic groups and can be passed down from parent to child. An individual may have inherited a genetic predisposition for developing keloids, but this does not always mean that they will develop one.

Does diet affect the development of keloids?

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that diet has any effect on the development of keloids. However, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle may help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

Is it possible for the keloid to reoccur?

Keloids can reoccur after successful treatment, especially if the area is exposed to further trauma or irritation. To reduce the risk of recurrence, it is important to take extra care to protect the treated area from injury or irritation. In some cases, additional treatments may be required to prevent a keloid from growing back.  

How are keloids diagnosed?

Keloid scars are usually easy to diagnose. Your doctor will examine the scar and may take a biopsy for further testing. 

Tips for managing keloids

Keloids can be unsightly and uncomfortable, but there are some things you can do to minimize their appearance. These include: 

• Avoiding any activities that may cause skin injury or irritation 
• Regularly applying moisturizers to the area 
• Wearing sunscreen when outdoors to protect from UV rays  
• Consulting your doctor about any treatments 

Keloids are a common skin condition that can be treated and managed. With the right combination of keloid treatments, you can reduce the size and appearance of keloid scars. Talk to your doctor or dermatologist for more information on available treatment options.