subject: Keloid Scars: Questions Answered [print this page] We know what scars are, but does anyone really think of the types of scars that can develop? If you suffer from a keloid, you probably have realized the severity of this certain type. Keloid scars are one of the most severe and unsightly types of scars that people often look to treat and remove. Let's ask and answer some common questions, learn about why keloids are unique, and discuss some treatment and removal possibilities.
What is a Keloid?
Keloids are unique in their ability to progressively grow outside the bounds of the original wound. They rise above the surface of the skin, are often odd shaped and tend to continue growing after the wound is healed. They are usually pink or purple, dome shaped, and appear smooth and shiny. Unlike other scars, they do not subside, making them a prime candidate for removal.
What Causes a Keloid?
Doctors are not entirely sure what causes a keloid scar, however they believe that is has to do with cellular signals that control growth. Biologically, a keloid is a fibrotic tumor made up of atypical fibroblasts that produce excessive elements, especially collagen, fibronectin, elastin, and proteoglycans. What causes this atypical fibroblast growth and the excessive component production remains a case to be studied.
Can Keloids be Prevented?
Keloid prevention is tricky, and it goes without saying that the best way to prevent a keloid is not to get one in the first place. If you have family members who have keloids or if you of are a darker skin, the two groups who have higher incidences of keloids, you should consider your predisposition to keloid scars. Those who feel they might have more of a tendency to develop keloids should not undergo elective surgeries or procedures such as piercings.
What are the Options for Keloid Treatment?
The following options are available for keloid removal and treatment:
-Cortisone Injections: These injections are given once a month at the site of the keloid until the patient is happy with the results. This option can help in reducing the elevation of the scar, but also tend to leave it a redder color by stimulating blood vessel formation.
-Surgery: This option is one of the most risky because in cutting a keloid you're putting yourself at risk of forming another equal or larger keloid scar.
-Laser Therapy: These procedures use pulse-dye lasers that can be effective in flattening keloids and making them look less red. However, these treatments are costly, often requiring various trips to the doctor, and are usually not covered by health insurance.
-Crytherapy: This procedure consists of freezing away the keloid with liquid nitrogen. This may flatten the keloid, but also leaves the site a darker color after treatment.
Are there any Natural Treatment Options?
Of course there are natural options; the trick is to find the right one! Many natural products can carry false claims, however one ingredient really makes a difference. Those products with Helix Aspersa Muller can actually regulate the skin healing and scar formation process giving you an organic and effective keloid scars treatment. These organic Helix Aspersa Muller scar removal creams can leave you with beautiful skin as they work to change cell communications and renew healthy skin structures.
