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Are You at Risk for Keloids? 5 Surprising Factors That Increase Your Chances
Published: Mar 06, 2024
Keloids don't affect everyone equally. Certain factors can significantly increase your chances of developing these troublesome scars. Understanding your risk can help you take proactive steps to prevent keloid formation.
1. Genetics and Ethnicity
Your genes play a big role in keloid risk. If your parents or siblings have keloids, you're more likely to develop them too. Ethnicity also matters – keloids are much more common in people with darker skin tones, especially those of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent. In fact, keloids affect up to 16% of Black individuals compared to only 1-2% of White individuals.
2. Age and Hormones
Keloids most often develop between ages 10 and 30. This suggests that hormonal changes during puberty and young adulthood may influence keloid formation. Interestingly, some women notice their keloids grow or become more pronounced during pregnancy, hinting at a possible link with estrogen levels.
3. Body Location
Certain areas of the body are more prone to keloid formation. The chest, shoulders, upper back, and earlobes are particularly susceptible. This may be due to higher skin tension in these areas. Keloids rarely form on areas with less skin movement, like the palms of hands or soles of feet.
4. Type of Skin Injury
While any skin injury can potentially lead to a keloid, some types of damage carry a higher risk. Burns, especially those that take a long time to heal, are more likely to result in keloids. Certain types of piercings, particularly those in the cartilage of the ear, also have a higher keloid risk. Severe acne can sometimes trigger keloid formation, especially on the chest and back.
Frequently Asked Questions
While possible, it's much less common after age 30.
No, but the risk is higher compared to lighter skin tones.
Rarely, but most keloids develop after skin damage.
Sun doesn't cause keloids, but can darken existing scars.
Studies show slightly higher rates in women.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding your keloid risk factors empowers you to take preventive action and seek early treatment if needed.
References
- Davis SA, Feldman SR, McMichael AJ. Management of keloids in the United States, 1990-2009: an analysis of the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Dermatol Surg 2013; 39:988.
- Ogawa R, Okai K, Tokumura F, et al. The relationship between skin stretching/contraction and pathologic scarring: the important role of mechanical forces in keloid generation. Wound Repair Regen 2012; 20:149.
- Glass DA 2nd. Current Understanding of the Genetic Causes of Keloid Formation. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc 2017; 18:S50.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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