Keloid Removal and Scar Treatments: What Works Best?

Scars are a natural part of the healing process, but for some people, scar tissue grows abnormally, forming raised, thickened, and sometimes painful growths called keloids. Keloids are not just cosmetic concerns—they can be itchy, uncomfortable, and even emotionally distressing, affecting self-confidence and quality of life.

In Nigeria and across Africa, keloids are more common in people with darker skin tones due to increased melanin activity. Unfortunately, many myths and ineffective treatments exist, leading people to spend money on remedies that do not work.

The good news is that several medical treatments can effectively reduce or remove keloids, but choosing the right method requires understanding what keloids are, why they form, and the best treatment options available.

This article explores the causes of keloids, the best medical treatments, and how to prevent them from forming.

WHAT ARE KELOIDS?

A keloid is an overgrowth of scar tissue that develops beyond the original wound site. Unlike normal scars, keloids continue to grow even after the wound has healed.

✔ Common Causes of Keloids:

• Surgical incisions
• Acne scars
• Burns
• Piercings (earlobes and nose)
• Vaccination sites
• Cuts and injuries

✔ Symptoms of Keloids:

• Thick, raised scars that extend beyond the original injury
• Dark red, purple, or brown discoloration
• Itching, burning, or tenderness
• Hard, rubbery texture

While keloids do not turn cancerous, they can be disfiguring, uncomfortable, and psychologically distressing.

WHO IS AT RISK OF DEVELOPING KELOIDS?

✔ People with Darker Skin Tones – Individuals of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent are more likely to develop keloids due to increased melanin production and collagen overgrowth.

✔ Genetic Predisposition – If keloids run in your family, you have a higher chance of developing them.

✔ Young Adults – Keloids often form between ages 10 and 30, especially during puberty or pregnancy.

✔ People with Chronic Acne or Skin Injuries – Those who frequently suffer from acne, surgical wounds, or body piercings are more prone to keloid formation.

WHAT ARE THE BEST TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR KELOIDS?

There is no single treatment that works for everyone, but a combination of therapies can effectively reduce or remove keloids.

1. Steroid Injections (Corticosteroid Therapy)

✔ How it Works:

• Corticosteroids (like triamcinolone) are injected directly into the keloid.
• They reduce inflammation, flatten the scar, and relieve itching or pain.

✔ Effectiveness:

• Works best on small to medium-sized keloids.
• Multiple injections (spaced 4–6 weeks apart) are usually required.

✔ Possible Side Effects:

• Temporary skin thinning or lightening of the treated area.

2. Laser Therapy (Fractional CO2 Laser & Pulsed-Dye Laser)

✔ How it Works:

• Lasers target and break down excess scar tissue.
• Stimulates collagen remodeling, improving skin texture.

✔ Effectiveness:

• Best for flattening keloids and improving skin tone.
• Works well in combination with steroid injections or silicone sheets.

✔ Possible Side Effects:

• Temporary redness or swelling after treatment.
• Multiple sessions are needed for optimal results.

3. Surgical Removal (Excision or Keloidectomy)

✔ How it Works:

• The keloid is surgically removed using precise techniques.
• Follow-up treatments (steroid injections or radiation therapy) are required to prevent recurrence.

✔ Effectiveness:

• Ideal for large, thick keloids that do not respond to other treatments.
• Works best when combined with post-surgical steroid injections or radiation therapy.

✔ Possible Risks:

• High recurrence rate (50–80%) if post-surgery treatment is not done.
• A new keloid may form over the surgical scar if proper care is not taken.

4. Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)

✔ How it Works:

• Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze and shrink the keloid.
• Works by killing excess scar tissue and reducing the size of the keloid.

✔ Effectiveness:

• Best for small keloids and works well in combination with steroid injections.

✔ Possible Side Effects:

• May cause temporary darkening or lightening of the treated skin.

5. Radiation Therapy (Superficial Radiation Therapy – SRT)

✔ How it Works:

• Low-dose radiation is applied to the scar area after surgical removal to prevent regrowth.
• Inhibits collagen overproduction, reducing keloid recurrence.

✔ Effectiveness:

• Best used after surgery to prevent recurrence.
• Can reduce the size of stubborn keloids.

✔ Possible Risks:

• Minimal risk of long-term skin damage if used in low doses.

6. Silicone Gel Sheets & Pressure Therapy

✔ How it Works:

• Silicone sheets or gels are placed over the keloid, applying pressure to flatten and soften the scar.
• Helps reduce redness and itching.

✔ Effectiveness:

• Works best on new or small keloids.
• Requires consistent use for several months to show visible improvement.

✔ Possible Side Effects:
• None. This is a safe, non-invasive treatment.

KELOID PREVENTION: HOW TO AVOID GETTING KELOIDS

If you are prone to keloids, preventing them is easier than treating them. Here’s how:

✔ Avoid Unnecessary Skin Trauma – Be cautious with ear piercings, tattoos, and elective surgeries.

✔ Use Silicone Gel or Pressure Therapy After Surgery – If you need surgery, ask your doctor about post-surgical scar prevention treatments.

✔ Treat Acne & Insect Bites Promptly – Reduce skin inflammation to prevent keloid formation.

✔ Apply Sunscreen on Scars – Protect healing skin from hyperpigmentation and excess collagen buildup.

✔ Seek Medical Advice Early – If you notice a thickening scar, early steroid injections can prevent keloid growth.

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT KELOID REMOVAL

1. “Keloids Can Be Removed Permanently with One Treatment.”

✅ Reality: Keloids have a high recurrence rate, so combination treatments work best.

2. “Home Remedies Like Lemon, Honey, and Shea Butter Can Remove Keloids.”

✅ Reality: While natural remedies moisturize the skin, they do not shrink or remove keloids.

3. “All Scars Will Turn into Keloids.”

✅ Reality: Not all scars become keloids—only those with genetic susceptibility or repeated skin trauma.

CONCLUSION: FINDING THE BEST KELOID TREATMENT FOR YOU

Keloids can be frustrating and difficult to manage, but safe and effective treatments are available. The key to successful removal is choosing the right approach based on your skin type, keloid size, and medical history.

If you struggle with keloids, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist to explore the best treatment options for your condition.

Dr. Aranmolate Rasheed Ayobami is a board-certified plastic surgeon and the founder of Grandville Medical & Laser. For consultations, visit www.gml.com.ng or visit any of our branches:

• Lekki: Plot 106 Taju Okoya Close, Eleganza Garden Estate, Opposite VGC, Lekki, Lagos. Tel: 0817 153 0599.
• Surulere: 76 Femi Ayantuga Street, Surulere, Lagos. Tel: 0816 454 8279, 0812 020 8868.
• Abuja: 5b Lephalala Close, Off Ganges, Maitama. Tel: 0817 323 3025.