Keloids: How do they form and how to treat them?

Each scar is different and the last phase of wound healing – the remodelling phase – can be responsible for these differences. In this stage, there’s a decrease in the number of fibroblasts, the occlusion of blood vessels and the production and degradation of collagen is balanced. If this balance is lost, abnormal scars, such as keloids, can form.

Keloids can be described as dermal benign fibro-proliferative growths. They extend beyond the limits of the original wound and appear irregular and mildly tender. Keloids usually have a darker colour compared to the skin and present hyperpigmentation. It is not yet fully known how these scars are formed, but an abnormal proliferation of fibroblasts is considered the main reason for their occurrence. Fibroblasts from keloid scars proliferate extensively and apoptosis is also inhibited. The imbalance of collagen production and degradation is also present in this scenario. Even though keloids are benign, they seem to behave similarly to malignant cells in terms of invasion and hyper-proliferation. Keloid’s most common locations are ear lobes, shoulders and pre-sternal skin and they have an incidence of 10% in the African-American population.

Unfortunately, keloids can bring discomfort, itchiness and even pain. However, if you have one, do not worry: there are many approaches available for keloid scars, although this scientific area still needs further improvement. A more invasive option may be the surgical removal of the keloid; however, the rate of recurrence is bigger than 50%. Injections of corticosteroids and other medications are also used to help shrink the keloid, even in association with the surgical option.
The use of silicone gel is also recommended to manage keloid scars appearance and KELO.CELL Biogel may be of great help to target your goals.

KELO.CELL Biogel will help soften and flatten your keloid and also helps to soothe the itching, redness and discolouration on your scar.  
 

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