How Does Keloid Treatment Work on Scars?

 Keloids are raised, thickened scars that develop as an overreaction to skin injury. Unlike regular scars, which remain within the boundary of the original wound, keloids grow beyond it and can become larger over time. If you're seeking Keloid Treatment in Dubai, you're likely aware of how common skin conditions like keloids can be in warm, humid climates. Whether you have developed a keloid from a surgical scar, acne, or even a minor injury, knowing how treatment works can help you take the right steps toward smoother, healthier skin.

What Is a Keloid?

A keloid is a type of scar that occurs when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. This excess collagen causes the scar tissue to grow aggressively, resulting in a firm, raised, and often shiny mass on the skin. Keloids can vary in size and color and often appear pink, red, or darker than the surrounding skin.

They can form anywhere on the body, but are most common on:

Chest

Shoulders

Upper back

Earlobes

Jawline

How Keloid Treatment Works

Several treatment options are available for managing keloid scars. The goal is to flatten the scar, relieve symptoms, and improve appearance. No single method works for everyone, and treatments are often combined for better results.

Corticosteroid Injections

Mechanism: Corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone acetonide, are injected directly into the keloid to reduce inflammation and suppress collagen production. This treatment helps shrink the scar over time.

Effectiveness:

Often used as a first-line treatment.

Multiple sessions are usually required, spaced a few weeks apart.

May soften and flatten the keloid but may not eliminate it entirely.

Silicone Gel Sheets or Silicone Gel

Mechanism: Silicone helps to hydrate the scar tissue and reduces collagen production. Silicone gel sheets or topical silicone gel are applied directly to the keloid for several hours daily.

Effectiveness:

Best used on newly formed scars.

Can help flatten and soften keloids over time.

Safe for long-term use.

Benefits:

Non-invasive

Painless

Suitable for children and adults

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

Mechanism: This treatment involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen, which causes the scar tissue to die and gradually shrink.

Effectiveness:

More effective on smaller, newer keloids.

Often used in combination with corticosteroid injections.

Drawbacks:

May cause skin discoloration (especially in darker skin tones)

Multiple sessions may be needed

Laser Therapy

Mechanism: Laser treatment works by targeting the blood vessels within the keloid and stimulating collagen remodeling.

Effectiveness:

Helps reduce redness and size.

May be combined with steroid injections or other therapies.

Popular Types of Lasers Used:

Pulsed-dye laser (PDL)

CO₂ laser

Nd:YAG laser

Pros:

Non-invasive

Precise targeting

Cons:

Expensive

Requires multiple treatments

Surgical Excision

Mechanism: Surgical removal involves cutting out the keloid tissue. However, because surgery itself causes skin trauma, there is a high risk that the keloid will return—sometimes larger than before.

Best Practice:

Surgery is often followed by other treatments like steroid injections, radiation, or silicone gel to prevent recurrence.

Precautions:

Not ideal as a standalone treatment

Post-operative care is crucial

Do Keloid Treatments Work Permanently?

Keloid treatment is often a long-term process. While many treatments can significantly reduce the size and appearance of the scar, complete elimination is not always possible. Furthermore, keloids have a high rate of recurrence, especially when not managed with a combination of therapies.

To improve your chances of long-term results:

Follow your provider’s aftercare instructions

Avoid trauma to the affected area

Consider early intervention when a keloid starts forming

Preventing Keloids

While not all keloids can be prevented, especially for those genetically prone, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

Avoid unnecessary skin trauma like piercings or tattoos

Treat acne early to prevent scarring

Use silicone sheets on healing wounds if you’re prone to keloids

Inform your doctor before surgeries so preventive measures can be taken

Final Thoughts

Keloids are a unique type of scar that requires tailored treatment strategies. From corticosteroid injections and silicone sheets to advanced laser therapy and radiation, there are multiple ways to manage and reduce keloid scars. While no treatment can guarantee complete and permanent removal, most can greatly improve the appearance and comfort of the scar.