Keloid scars can be a struggle for many people. These types of scars are often known for their ability to resist treatments making them difficult to get rid of. Since they are so prominent, many people look for ways to get rid of them. Here are six treatments that are often used to lessen the appearance of a keloid scar:
Moisturizing Oils and Creams
A topical treatment option is moisturizing oils and creams. There are several varieties available on the market, and they can be effective at keeping the tissue affected by the scar soft and supple. This softness can lessen the irritation the scar may cause, but the oils and creams will not remove it entirely.
Gel Pads
Using a silicone gel pad and pressure is an effective way of getting rid of hypertrophic scars, but this method does not have much effect on a keloid scar. While they do look similar, a keloid will continue to grow outside the original injury site. A hypertrophic scar only grows in the location of the original injury.
Keloid Injections
An effective form of treatment, keloid injections aim to reduce the inflammation and reduce the collagen production at the scar site. The proteins and collagen are what form the fibrous tissue, and the keloid injections can make it become much flatter and softer. These keloid injections are corticosteroids.
Cryotherapy
The cryotherapy method involves the freezing of the keloid scar tissue in order to kill the cells. It is also an effective means of treatment. However, some people find this method too painful.
Surgery
This is a more invasive method, but it can also be quite effective. The surgical removal of the tissue can be done all at once. The surgery is generally an outpatient procedure that can be performed in an office or surgery suite. There have been cases where the keloid tissue grows back after several years.
Superficial Radiation Treatment
Another effective method, radiation treatment has been shown to remove keloid scars in a large percentage of patients permanently. The therapy is done by a machine that delivers a calibrated dose of radiation in a very precise manner.
If you have keloid scars, let DSC Laser and Skin Care Center help you find a treatment plan that is right for you. Our doctors are well trained in the various methods, such as keloid injections, and they can advise you on the most effective path for your skin’s needs.
