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Understanding Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are raised scars that develop when the body produces excessive collagen during the wound healing process. Unlike normal scars, keloids grow beyond the boundaries of the original injury and may continue to enlarge over time. While they are not harmful, they can cause discomfort, itching, tenderness and cosmetic concerns. Early assessment is important to determine the most appropriate management plan.
What are Keloid Scars?
A keloid scar is an abnormal overgrowth of scar tissue that develops following skin injury. Unlike a normal scar, which gradually flattens and fades over time, a keloid continues to grow beyond the edges of the original wound due to excessive collagen production during healing.
Keloids can develop following:
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Surgery
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Piercings
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Acne
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Burns
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Cuts
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Vaccinations
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Minor skin trauma
They most commonly occur on the ears, chest, shoulders, upper back and jawline.
Keloid Scar vs Hypertrophic Scar
Although they may appear similar, keloid scars and hypertrophic scars are different conditions.
Keloid Scar
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Extends beyond the original wound.
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May continue to grow over time.
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Higher risk of recurrence after treatment.
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More common in genetically predisposed individuals.
Hypertrophic Scar
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Remains within the original wound.
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Often improves naturally over time.
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Usually responds more predictably to treatment.
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Lower risk of recurrence.
A clinical assessment is important to determine which type of scar is present before treatment is recommended.
Signs & Symptoms
Keloid scars may present as:
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Raised, firm scar tissue
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Smooth, shiny appearance
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Red, pink or darker coloured scars
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Itching
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Tenderness
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Discomfort
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Continued enlargement over time
What Causes Keloid Scars?
Keloids develop due to an overactive healing response, resulting in excessive collagen production.
Risk factors include:
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Family history
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Darker skin types
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Previous keloid formation
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Surgery
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Piercings
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Acne
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Burns
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Skin trauma
Some people are genetically more likely to develop keloids than others.
How are Keloid Scars Diagnosed?
Keloid scars are usually diagnosed through a clinical examination.
During your consultation, our doctor-led team will assess the scar's size, location, symptoms and previous treatments before recommending the most appropriate management plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the size, location and age of the scar and may include:
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Steroid injections
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Silicone scar therapy
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Pressure therapy where appropriate
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Scar management advice
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Minor surgical excision in selected cases
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Combination treatment plans
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Referral where clinically indicated
Why Early Treatment is Important
Keloid scars often continue to enlarge if left untreated. Early intervention may help reduce symptoms, improve comfort and prevent further progression.
Because keloids have a tendency to recur, treatment often focuses on long-term management rather than complete removal.
Not Every Raised Scar is a Keloid
Raised scars can have several different causes, and not all require the same treatment. Some scars are hypertrophic, while others may represent different skin conditions altogether.
Before recommending treatment, our doctor-led team will perform a thorough assessment to determine the type of scar and ensure the most appropriate management plan is selected.
Where there is uncertainty regarding the diagnosis, further medical assessment or biopsy may be recommended.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Arrange an assessment if:
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A scar continues to grow.
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Your scar is painful or itchy.
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A scar becomes increasingly raised.
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You are considering cosmetic treatment.
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You have previously developed keloid scars.
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Your scar affects your confidence or quality of life.
Related Treatments
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Steroid Injections (if available at CUC)
Related Conditions
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Skin Tags & Other Skin Lesions
Book a Consultation
Following a comprehensive assessment, our doctor-led team will determine whether your scar is a keloid or another type of scar and recommend a personalised treatment plan based on your symptoms, medical