Certain medical treatments, including creams and injections, may help reduce the appearance of keloid scars. Some home remedies may also help.
Keloids are raised buildups of scar tissue on the skin. They usually form and grow after a wound, puncture, burn, or blemish has healed.
For some people, this scar tissue is more pronounced and darker than the rest of their skin tone.
There are some medical treatments that can help reduce the appearance of keloids, though it’s best to run them by your doctor before trying.
Retinoid cream
Retinoid cream is a derivative of vitamin A or retinol. Much like natural remedies, such as garlic or onion, a
Make sure to follow the directions on the retinoid cream product you purchase.
Silicone
Silicone gel or sheets may be a go-to recommendation from a doctor. A
Steroid injections
Injections of steroidal anti-inflammatories have been known to help with keloids. However, these have been shown to be more effective following major treatments for keloids. Treatments include surgical scar removal, laser treatment, and more, as noted in a 2022 review.
A combination of different injected steroids has also been shown to be more successful in a
There are ways you can prevent keloids from forming. If you’ve already developed keloids, certain measures can be taken to prevent more from developing.
Avoid cosmetic surgery
While some surgery is necessary, avoid procedures such as cosmetic surgery if possible. Surgical changes to the skin can cause keloids to form.
If you’ve had keloids from surgery or think you might get them, consider deciding against having elective surgery. Elective surgeries may include surgeries that aren’t intended to save your life or needed to improve your health.
Avoid (more) tattoos or piercings
Tattoos and piercings may commonly cause keloids. In a way, they can be considered elective surgery. If you’re prone to keloids, think thoroughly about whether you want keloids or not if you invest in tattoos or piercings.
Avoid skin picking and pimple popping
Try to prevent yourself from picking or popping acne on your skin. The inflammation caused by these habits can lead to keloids.
Keloids result from an exaggerated form of natural processes of scarring in the body.
Home remedies can help quite a bit with keloids: they can reduce size and pigmentation, making them less noticeable. Home remedies are especially effective right after getting a wound, puncture, or burn.
If keloids don’t improve with the help of home remedies, talk with a doctor about other treatments. They may recommend OTC or prescribed creams and gels.
Surgical and laser removal are also successful treatment options if other methods don’t work. Keep in mind that whatever method is used to treat keloids, once they occur, they have a very high chance of returning.