A keloid, or keloid scar, is a type of scar resulting from an overgrowth of the dermis at the site of a healed wound. It appears as firm, rubbery lesions or shiny, fibrous nodules, and its color ranges from pink to flesh-colored (for light skin) or from red to dark brown (for dark skin). A keloid scar is benign, non-contagious, and generally accompanied by intense itching, even sharp pain; its texture evolves over time. In the most severe cases, it can affect the movement of the skin.
The causes of keloids are related to an abnormal reaction of the healing process.
Normally, after an injury, the skin produces collagen to repair the tissues.
In some people, this production becomes excessive and uncontrolled, forming a thick fibrous mass: the keloid.
Main causes
Cuts, burns, surgical wounds
Insect bites, acne pimples, chickenpox
Vaccinations, piercings, tattoos
People with a family history of keloids are at higher risk.
More common in dark skin (Africans, Asians, Hispanics).
- Excessive collagen production:
The body produces too much collagen during skin repair.
This makes the scar thick and hard.
Persistent inflammation at the wound site stimulates the growth of scar tissue.
- Excessive tension on the wound:
If the skin is stretched too much during healing (e.g., shoulders, chest), the scar can thicken.
Keloids appear more often during puberty or pregnancy, periods of hormonal changes.
An infected wound during healing increases the risk of keloid.
The symptoms of keloids vary depending on the size, location, and age of the scar, but they exhibit characteristic signs.
Mains symptôms
1. Appearance of a bump on a scar
The keloid often starts as a small, firm bump on a healed wound, then gradually grows larger.
It can far exceed the limits of the initial wound.
2.Texture and particular appearance
Thick, hard, shiny, or smooth skin to the touch.
Pink, red, dark brown, or purplish color, depending on the skin tone.
3.Pain or discomfort
Feeling of tension, pulling, or tingling.
Sometimes slight pain upon contact.
4. Itching (pruritus)
Frequent, especially during the formation of the keloid.
5. Slow but continuous growth
The keloid can continue to grow for several months, or even years.
6. Esthetic or functional discomfort
Psychological discomfort when it is visible (face, neck, ears).
Mechanical discomfort when it is located on a mobile area (joints, thorax).