Keloid Treatment in Washington, DC

What Is a Keloid?

A keloid is a type of raised scar that develops when the body produces excess scar tissue during the healing process.

Keloids may become larger than the original wound and can develop after relatively minor skin injuries, including acne, ear or body piercings, surgical incisions, burns, or other trauma to the skin.

Keloids may be firm, raised, smooth, or lumpy and can vary in color from the surrounding skin.

What's the Difference Between a Keloid and a Hypertrophic Scar?

Keloids and hypertrophic scars are both raised scars, but they do not behave exactly the same way.

• Keloids can grow beyond the boundaries of the original injury.
• Hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the original wound and may become less prominent over time.

Because raised scars can look similar, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine what type of scar you may have and which treatment options may be appropriate.

What Causes Keloids?

Keloids develop as part of an abnormal or excessive scar-healing response. They may occur after:

• Acne or other inflammatory skin conditions
• Ear or body piercings
• Surgery
• Cuts or other injuries
• Burns
• Insect bites
• Vaccinations or other injections
• Other forms of skin trauma

Some people are more prone to developing keloids than others.

Keloids and Skin of Color

Keloids can occur in people of all skin tones, but they are more common in individuals with darker skin.

Keloids may develop after relatively minor injuries, including acne and piercings, and can become a persistent cosmetic or physical concern.

Dr. Holmes considers skin tone, scar characteristics, location, symptoms, and the patient's individual history when evaluating and treating keloids.

Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

What Do Keloids Look and Feel Like?

Keloids may appear as raised, firm, or thickened areas of scar tissue. They can vary in size, shape, and color.

Some keloids are primarily a cosmetic concern, while others may cause:

• Itching
• Tenderness
• Pain
• Tightness
• Sensitivity

Keloids can also continue to enlarge after the original injury has healed.

When Should You See a Dermatologist for a Keloid?

Consider scheduling a dermatology evaluation if you notice:

• A raised scar that continues to grow
• A scar extending beyond the original wound
• Itching, tenderness, or pain
• A new raised scar after acne, piercing, surgery, or injury
• A scar that is affecting your comfort or confidence
• A keloid that has returned after previous treatment

Early evaluation can help determine whether the growth is a keloid or another type of scar and whether treatment may be appropriate.

Keloid Treatment Options

Treatment for keloids depends on their size, location, symptoms, history, and whether the keloid has been treated previously.

Depending on the individual case, treatment may include injections, topical or pressure-based approaches, procedures, or a combination of treatments.

Dr. Holmes will evaluate the keloid and discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for your individual situation.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections may be used to help reduce the size and symptoms of certain keloids.

Other Treatment Approaches

Depending on the characteristics of the keloid and the patient's history, other approaches may be considered as part of an individualized treatment plan.

View Keloid Repair Before & After →

Can Keloids Return After Treatment?

Keloids can recur after treatment. The possibility of recurrence depends on factors such as the characteristics of the keloid and the treatment approach.

For this reason, treatment planning may include strategies intended to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Dr. Holmes can discuss the potential benefits, limitations, and expectations of treatment during your consultation.

Can Keloids Be Prevented?

Not every keloid can be prevented, particularly in people who are prone to developing them.

If you have previously developed a keloid, it may be helpful to discuss your tendency to form raised scars with a dermatologist before undergoing elective procedures, piercings, or other skin trauma.

Your dermatologist can help you understand your options and whether preventive measures may be appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keloids

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Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Keloid Treatment

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.

Her approach to keloid treatment begins with evaluating the individual characteristics of the scar, including its location, size, symptoms, and history.

With a focus on skin of color, Dr. Holmes considers each patient's skin characteristics and individual needs when developing a treatment plan.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes →