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What Are Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars? Understanding These Unusual Skin Growths
Published: May 26, 2024
Keloids and hypertrophic scars are abnormal skin growths that can form after an injury. While they may look similar, there are key differences between the two.
What Causes These Scars?
Both keloids and hypertrophic scars develop when the body produces too much scar tissue after skin damage. This can happen after surgery, burns, acne, or even minor scrapes. In people prone to these scars, the healing process goes into overdrive. Instead of forming a normal flat scar, excess collagen builds up, creating a raised, often red or purple growth.
Keloids vs. Hypertrophic Scars: What's the Difference?
The main difference is in how they grow. Hypertrophic scars stay within the original wound boundaries. Keloids, on the other hand, spread beyond the injury site into surrounding healthy skin. Keloids also tend to keep growing over time, while hypertrophic scars usually stabilize after a few months. Both can be itchy or painful, but keloids often cause more discomfort.
Who's at Risk?
Anyone can develop abnormal scars, but some people are more susceptible. Keloids are more common in people with darker skin tones, especially those of African or Asian descent. Age also plays a role - these scars most often develop between ages 10 and 30. Family history increases your risk, suggesting genetics are involved.
Prevention and Treatment Options
Preventing abnormal scars starts with proper wound care. Keep injuries clean and moisturized to promote faster healing. If you're prone to keloids, avoid piercings and elective surgeries when possible. For existing scars, treatments may include steroid injections, pressure therapy, laser treatments, or surgery combined with radiation for severe cases. A dermatologist can help determine the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but they can be uncomfortable and affect self-esteem.
Unfortunately, keloids rarely disappear without treatment.
They affect about 10% of people, varying by ethnicity.
Special dressings and early treatment may help reduce risk.
They're most common on the chest, shoulders, and earlobes.
The Bottom Line
While keloids and hypertrophic scars can be challenging, understanding your risk and seeking early treatment can make a big difference.
References
- Ogawa R. Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars Are the Result of Chronic Inflammation in the Reticular Dermis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18.
- Berman B, Maderal A, Raphael B. Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars: Pathophysiology, Classification, and Treatment. Dermatol Surg 2017; 43 Suppl 1:S3.
- Huang C, Akaishi S, Hyakusoku H, Ogawa R. Are keloid and hypertrophic scar different forms of the same disorder? A fibroproliferative skin disorder hypothesis based on keloid findings. Int Wound J 2014; 11:517.
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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