What to apply to a keloid scar. Laser treatment of keloid scars. How to hide a keloid scar - tattoo, permanent makeup

Keloid scars at the site of injury can form over many years, gradually changing. Conventionally, keloid scars are usually divided into fresh and old.

Fresh keloid scar- This is a scar that has existed for less than five years. It differs from old keloid scars in its bright color, glossy surface and active growth. Old scar- pale, wrinkled, soft.

This classification is very important, since the choice of treatment depends on the type of scar. And of course, Keloid treatment should be started as early as possible. The best time is before the scar appears.

And this is not sarcasm. Most often, the tendency to form a keloid scar can be noticed even before it appears. In order to determine whether you have it, look carefully at how small wounds heal: after shaving in men, after piercing the ears in women.

If a thin, light-colored scar forms that does not rise above the skin, you are probably safe. But you still need to monitor the healing of any wound very, very carefully, since there are cases when keloids begin to form, as they say, without warning.

Expert comment:

In order to make the scar as invisible and thin as possible, many preparations have been created, among which gels, ointments and silicone-based patches occupy a special place.

Laser resurfacing of post-acne scars.

What is silicone gel against keloid sutures

Silicone ointments, creams and gels, such as Zeraderm or Dermatix, containing 100% medical grade silicone, play a big role in the treatment of scars, including keloids.

A silicone-based gel or cream does not allow connective tissue to grow, and at the same time protects scars from external influences, as it creates a thin film on the surface of the scars. In addition, silicone ointment for keloids smoothes and softens the scar, which relieves itching and pain.

In addition to silicone preparations, Hydrocortisone is used to combat keloid scars. Hydrocortisone ointment for hypertrophic and keloid scars suppresses the activity of fibroblasts and collagen formation, which means it does not allow scars to grow.

There are also many combination drugs, such as Contratubeks, Kenalog, Elokom and others. In addition to silicone, they may include other active ingredients: zinc, vitamin E and others necessary to fight scars and quickly heal elements.

Expert opinion

Scar patches

Recently, so-called silicone patches, or plates, are increasingly being used to combat keloid scars. They are glued to the surface of the scar, and at the same time provide its protection from mechanical damage and exposure to silicone, which affects the resorption of keloid scars.

As a rule, people who are prone to the appearance of keloid formations need to start applying the patches immediately after the wound has healed and a Dense crust has formed. This is an excellent prevention against the proliferation of connective tissue and the appearance of ugly, rough scars.

However, modern silicone-based preparations can be used not only in case of danger of keloid disease, but also in the healing of any wounds and sutures, so that scarring is easier and the scar is thinner and less noticeable.

Video

How to determine whether a keloid scar is or not

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From this article you will learn:

keloid scar and hypertrophic scar - what is the difference,
laser resurfacing of scars: before and after photos, video,
what is the best ointment for scars?

A keloid scar is the result of excessive growth of scar tissue. It looks like a hard, smooth, tough, nodular growth, often in various shades of red. Many people mistakenly refer to it as “colloidal scar,” which is a grammatically incorrect name.

Keloid scars (keloids) can begin to form immediately after injury or several months later. They can be significantly larger than the original wound itself. Unlike other types of scars, this type of scars/scars never lighten or become invisible over time.

They occur on any part of the body where there has been damage to the skin, but the following parts of the body are most susceptible to the formation of keloids: chest, shoulders, neck, knees, ankles, earlobes.

Keloid scar and hypertrophic scar - what is the difference?

Usually, after an injury, the body starts the healing process, as a result of which a regular flat scar forms on the surface of the skin (at the site of the former wound). For reasons still unknown to science, the scar may suddenly begin to thicken, i.e. hypertrophy of scar tissue occurs. Hypertrophy can be of two types, and depending on its type, either a hypertrophic scar or a keloid scar occurs.

Keloid scar (Fig. 1-6) –
if the hypertrophy of scar tissue extends beyond the area of skin damage, capturing healthy, undamaged tissue, such a scar is called a keloid. This type of scar develops over several years after injury, but can sometimes occur completely spontaneously even without previous injury, such as on the chest.
A keloid scar can grow for many years and never regresses like a hypertrophic scar. Moreover, keloid scars often grow again if they were previously removed surgically.

Other symptoms of keloid scars are:

Keloid scars can be either flesh-colored or red, pink, or darker colors. They can be smooth, nodular or spherical, or simply protrude above the skin in lumps. If the keloid is exposed to sunlight during the first year of formation, the scar may permanently become darker than the surrounding skin. Sometimes a keloid scar will cause itching, irritation, or pain (and these symptoms may be worsened by rubbing clothing).

Keloid scars: causes of occurrence

During the wound healing process, fibroblasts begin to actively synthesize collagen. Sometimes, for some reason, fibroblasts begin to produce more collagen than is necessary for the normal wound healing process. In this case, the scar begins to grow, forming a keloid. According to studies, collagen synthesis in keloid scars is 20 times higher than in normal scars.

Keloids can develop from a variety of skin injuries, including –
→ surgical incisions,
→ wounds on the skin after injuries,
→ vaccination injections,
→ for acne (blackheads and pimples), chickenpox,
→ when piercing various parts of the body (including earlobe piercings).

Surgical removal of scars and scars –

It is much easier to prevent the appearance of keloid scars by using special ointments or silicone patches than to treat scars that have already appeared. Surgical treatment consists of excision of the keloid scar using a scalpel or surgical laser. Surgical removal of scars with a laser should not be confused with the procedure of laser resurfacing of scars. The latter is a conservative non-surgical procedure.

However, for keloid scars, surgical treatment methods are quite risky, because the operation may cause the formation of a similar or even larger keloid in the place of the previous one. Therefore, if excision is nevertheless used, then immediately after the operation all possible preventive measures are used to avoid relapse -

→ special ointments for scars,
→ corticosteroid drugs,
→ prolonged wearing of a pressure bandage or compression garments after surgery.

Excision of a keloid using a surgical laser: video

Non-surgical methods for treating keloids -

In addition to surgical treatment, there are other treatment options that can significantly reduce the size of the keloid and also make it lighter.

1. Laser scar resurfacing –

This is one of the common methods of dealing with scars, not only keloids, but also hypertrophic ones. Typically used for this purpose are argon laser, neodymium laser (YAG), CO2 lasers (carbon dioxide), and pulsed dye lasers. Laser scar resurfacing helps make scars appear flatter and less red. The treatment is safe and not too painful, but several sessions are usually required.

The first video shows laser scar resurfacing: before and after photos
The second stage included laser resurfacing of keloid scars, combined with steroid injections.

2. Corticosteroid injections –

Corticosteroids reduce excessive scarring through the following effects:
→ they reduce the proliferation and activity of fibroblasts,
→ reduce collagen synthesis,
→ reduce the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans,
→ reduce the synthesis of inflammatory mediators.

The most commonly used corticosteroid is triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) in a concentration of 10 to 40 mg. For best effectiveness, corticosteroids are used in combination with other scar removal methods (especially cryotherapy), which reduces the risk of recurrence by 50-100%.

3. Cryotherapy –

Liquid nitrogen causes cell damage. Typically, to achieve the desired effect, 1, 2 or 3 freeze-thaw cycles are carried out, each lasting 10-30 seconds. Repeat treatments may be required every 20-30 days. Studies have shown that the effectiveness of this method is 51-74% without relapse within 30 months of follow-up.

Possible side effects –
→ pain,
→ permanent depigmentation of the skin at the site of exposure.

Cryotherapy combined with steroid injections: video

4. Pressotherapy (pressure bandages) –

It has long been known that pressure has a thinning effect on the skin. A reduction in the number of collagen fibers in hypertrophic and keloid scars under pressure dressings has been demonstrated using electron microscopy data.

Compression treatments include point (button) compression, pressure bandages, elastic bandages, special silicone-based patches... Studies have shown that if you use silicone patches (Mepiform, Spenco) from the very beginning, it improves the condition of scars in 60% patients. However, such patches must be worn 24 hours for several months, which is difficult to maintain.

5. Scar ointment or scar cream –

Almost any modern ointment for resolving scars contains silicone, which (according to recent research) creates an airtight film, which perfectly moisturizes scars, gives them elasticity and softness. And this, in turn, is a good factor for normal healing and the formation of an unnoticeable flat scar.

Example of external remedies for scars –

You should start using ointment for scars after surgery only after the suture has healed, that is, the crusts have completely fallen off. Until this time, the crusts can be lubricated with Panthenol, D-Panthenol, Dexpanthenol or other similar products. Keep in mind that under no circumstances should you pick out the crusts yourself; they should fall off on their own!

showed conflicting results. The analysis showed that the tendency to form scars depends entirely on the body itself and its predisposition to keloids at the cellular level.

We came across reviews where people smeared their scars with all possible expensive and not very expensive ointments and creams for scars, and they still developed keloids. On the contrary, some reviews noted that they did nothing at all with their scars and over time they turned into barely noticeable white threads of scars. It definitely won’t be worse if you use some ointment to resolve scars and scars, and in any case, using these products still reduces the risk of the formation of rough scars and keloids.

6. Interferon –

Recent studies have shown that the use of interferons may help reduce the size of a keloid, although there is no definitive data on the longevity of the effect of such therapy. Currently, doctors often recommend this method as an auxiliary treatment method. Treatment is carried out by using creams containing “imiquimod 5%” (drugs “Aldara”, “Zyclara”).

7. Radiation therapy –

They try to use it only in exceptional cases, due to the risk of cancer.

8. Promising methods –

Research is currently underway into other treatments for keloid scars. Direction of research:
→ use of onion extract,
→ use of the drug “fluorouracil” (5-FU),
→ internal cryotherapy (freezing scar tissue from inside the keloid itself).

9. Collagen gel Collost for scars: reviews

Recently, other products have appeared on the market that promise to improve the condition of the skin and scars. For example, collagen gel Collost for scars - there are no reviews on the effectiveness of the drug for treating scars as such, but we analyzed the composition and mechanism of action of the drug to determine the very possibility of treatment with this drug.

The drug consists of hyaluronic acid or collagen of animal origin, and is made in the form of 7 and 15% gels, which are injected. According to the composition and instructions itself, the drug, on the contrary, helps the skin produce its own collagen. Therefore, the drug can only be indicated for the treatment of atrophic scars, but not keloid or hypertrophic scars, in which collagen is produced 20-30 times more than needed.

We hope that our article was useful to you!

Many have heard about keloid scars and seen photos of them on the Internet, but few know what a colloid scar is and why it appears. Below we will talk about this phenomenon, you will see photos of scars and learn the causes and types of colloidal scars, as well as how to treat such formations on the body.

2 Classification of colloid scars
3 Why do colloid scars appear?
4 Symptoms of keloid scars
5 Possible consequences of this phenomenon
6 Diagnosis and clinical treatment
6.1 Physical measures

7 Traditional medicine against colloid scars

8 Preventive measures

Classification

Colloidal scars are divided into two main groups: true and secondary or false.

The first ones are formed without any mechanical impact on the skin. In most cases, for unknown reasons, they are located on the back, in the chest area, on the earlobes and neck. Scars rise 5-7 mm above the surface of the epidermis.

They are benign, smooth, painless and insensitive. During laboratory studies of true keloids, specialists find many collagen fibers in the collected material.

Secondary scars are formed as a result of injuries and thermal or chemical burns of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. In some cases, a keloid forms at the site of a boil, trophic ulcer or stoma.

Keloids are also classified by age. There are recently formed and old scars. Young scars have a bright color and a smooth glossy surface. Old keloids are distinguished by an abundance of connective tissue nodes, roughness and pale color. 5-6 years after the appearance of scars, they stop increasing in size.

Attention! It is necessary to distinguish a keloid from other skin neoplasms. If the emerging growth is soft, quickly increases and is accompanied by swelling of nearby tissues, then there is reason to suspect the development of tumor processes.

Description of colloidal scars and scars according to ICD-10 code

A colloidal scar (scar) is a visible formation on the skin resulting from uneven fusion of the edges of damaged tissue. The scar worsens the appearance, but does not pose a danger to human health. The likelihood of the tumor developing into a malignant one is quite low.

Scars can be caused by injuries or infectious pathologies.

The primary form of colloidal scar forms suddenly without damage to the skin. The process of forming secondary education takes place in three stages:

Epithelization. It takes about ten days and is characterized by the appearance of a primary thin layer of epithelial cells.
Swelling. Scar tissue forms. The process takes about a month depending on the size of the lesion.
Seal. The density of the scar increases due to the formation of connective tissue. Capillaries disappear from the surface.

Scar formation occurs in several stages.

Primary and secondary scars have different origins and causes. Signs of their formation are determined by the following phenomena:

skin itching;
painful sensations on palpation;
absence of hair and sweat glands in the location area;
acquiring a red or bluish tint.

In case scars form in the neck, ears and back for no apparent reason, you should consult a doctor as they may require intensive care.

Reasons for appearance

To date, it has not been possible to identify the exact causes that cause the appearance of colloidal scars. It was possible to establish that when the normal regeneration process is disrupted, pathological fusion of damaged tissue begins.

Healing of wound surfaces is a long and complex process in which, in addition to the skin, the immune, circulatory and lymphatic systems are involved, so it is very important to choose an ointment that will help quickly heal wounds.

In a healthy person, recovery from a minor injury takes about 7 days; a major burn or laceration can take about a year to heal. During regeneration, a flat scar forms on the skin, which subsequently disappears. If at any stage the process of tissue restoration is disrupted, then the damaged surface begins to be covered not by a new layer of epidermis, but by connective tissue with a high collagen content. A colloidal scar is formed. It may continue to grow beyond the wound, even months or years after the wound has healed.

A characteristic feature of a keloid is the minimal relationship between the size of the scar and the severity of the initial injury. Often, scars form at the site of minor scratches or abrasions, injections, acne, or insect bites. In a small percentage of people, keloids form on healthy skin for unknown reasons.

In this case, scars most often form on inactive areas of the body:

In the navel area;
On the chest and in the collarbone area;
Behind the ears and on the earlobes;
At the base of the neck;
On the shoulders and in the area of the shoulder blades.

What not to do if a colloid scar appears

Treatment of a keloid scar must begin immediately after its occurrence. As soon as the first symptoms of this type of formation appear, you must immediately contact a surgeon who will prescribe adequate treatment.

If you delay, the situation will only get worse. What not to do if you have a keloid??

Self-medicate. This can have the opposite effect and accelerate the growth of the scar and increase the pain. You need to be especially careful with folk remedies;
Do peelings in the scar area;
Apply a tattoo to a scar, even for the purpose of camouflage;
If there is a keloid on the earlobe, it is prohibited to pierce it. This will cause rapid growth of connective tissue;
Carry out scar removal yourself or in a dubious clinic.

Symptoms and diagnosis

A keloid is a rough growth on the skin. Its dimensions can vary from a few millimeters to 30-40 centimeters or more. Due to the abundance of blood vessels, the scar differs in color from the surrounding epidermis. It is easy to diagnose keloid due to a number of characteristic symptoms:

Red or brown color of the scar. The skin around it may be hyperemic due to the abundance of capillaries;
Unlike a regular scar, a keloid does not lose sensitivity; pressing on it may be accompanied by pain;
Itching and throbbing in the area of large scars.

Symptoms accompanied by physical discomfort in most cases bother the patient during the first 11-15 months from the onset of the keloid.

After this period ends, the scar, as a rule, enters an inactive stage. It gradually stops increasing in size, turns pale and loses pain. 1-2 years after formation, the keloid takes on the appearance of a rough, irregularly shaped scar.

Symptoms of keloid scars

Many people cannot distinguish between the symptoms of hypertrophic and keloid scars, but they differ both in appearance and in their localization. The following are characteristic of keloid formations:

they increase slowly;
pulsation is felt;
there is itching;
the formation hurts when pressed;
the skin may turn blue or red;
there are no sweat glands or hair follicles on the scar;
Such scars form on the décolleté, ears, neck, shoulder blades or chest.

Who is at risk?

There are a number of factors that are prerequisites for the development of colloidal scars:

Disorders of the reproductive and endocrine systems, hormonal imbalances in the body;
Adolescence or old age;
Suppression of the immune system: condition after organ or tissue transplantation, previous diseases, presence of the immunodeficiency virus;
Pregnancy and lactation;
Hereditary predisposition;
Inflammatory processes, wound suppuration;
Impaired blood supply and innervation of the tissues of the injured area, including as a result of ulcerative processes or burns.

Attention! Often colloidal scars form on the lip, earlobe, navel or wings of the nose as a result of punctures. Keloid in this area due to infection in the wound and subsequent inflammatory processes. If you decide to get a piercing, be sure to follow the rules of caring for it: treat it with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory ointment (zinc or boron), develop a puncture, wear items made of silver or medical steel.

Preventive measures

To avoid the occurrence of colloidal scars, the following recommendations must be followed::

Avoid causing wounds. Especially if there is a hereditary predisposition to the formation of massive scars;
Follow the doctor's recommendations in the postoperative period;
Wear a bandage after surgery;
Avoid visiting baths and saunas, and also do not heat the scar;
Do not massage or damage the scar;
Use ointments and medications prescribed by the doctor. Do not self-medicate;
Protect the postoperative wound from contamination;
If a wound becomes infected, immediately contact a surgeon for advice;
Lead a healthy lifestyle (giving up bad habits, proper nutrition, healthy sleep).

Treatment

Since the reasons for the development of colloidal scars have not been established, there is no universal therapy. The specialist selects the treatment method individually depending on the manifestation of the pathology. Treatment includes conservative, that is, medication, therapy and surgical interventions.

Pharmacological treatment is used to eliminate keloids that formed less than 12 months ago. The following methods are used:

Freezing raised scars and growths with liquid nitrogen – cryotherapy(CryoPharma, Wartner Cryo). Nitrogen affects the fluid in the tissues, which is found in large quantities in keloid formations. The disadvantage of this method is that cryotherapy can only remove the external manifestations of the scar. This method should be used as part of complex therapy;
Corticosteroid injections into the affected area(“Prednisolone”, “Lorinden”). This hormone leads to a local reduction in collagen production and reduces the inflammatory process;
Immunomodulators(“Interferon”, “Likopid”) are also injected intradermally, directly into the scar tissue. Injections are carried out once every two weeks for three months;
Medicines to prevent tissue proliferation(“Ronidaza”, “Longidaza”, “Lidaza”). These are agents that are injected into the area next to the scar and prevent the keloid from affecting nearby tissue;
Ointments against tissue scarring. Used as a preventive or auxiliary agent: “Kontraktubeks”, “Dermatix”, “Solcoseryl”.

Treatment of colloid scars also includes the use of physiotherapeutic procedures:

Microwave electromagnetic effect on the affected area. Used to destabilize the water contained in the keloid tissue. It is recommended to use this method in conjunction with cryotherapy;
Electrophoresis- administration of corticosteroids using electrical impulses;
Magnetic wave therapy. Used exclusively as a preventative measure to stimulate rapid wound healing. It is used to treat patients with a hereditary predisposition to the formation of colloidal scars, weakened immunity and large wounds.

5-6 months after the formation of a keloid, cosmetic procedures can be carried out aimed at eliminating the effects of skin scarring:

Laser therapy to remove small connective tissue nodes;
Peels and scrubs to smooth the skin;
Darsonvalization.

How to remove colloidal scar?

You can get rid of the scar using cryotherapy or surgery. In the first case, the drug is applied to the growth for a long time, after which the keloid is removed layer by layer. To completely eliminate it, 5 to 15 procedures are required.

Surgery involves complete excision of the overgrown connective tissue. Stitches are placed on the wound. If the scar was large, then skin grafting is recommended to prevent re-formation of the keloid.

Attention! After surgical removal of a keloid, there is a high risk of scar recurrence. Therefore, after surgery it is necessary to carry out physiotherapeutic and drug treatment.

It is worth considering that patients with true keloids are contraindicated for any surgical or injection treatment methods, as they can lead to the formation of new scars.

Surgeon E.I. Karpova talks about the dangers of aggressive therapeutic methods for people with primary colloid scars.

Treatment with traditional methods

Along with cosmetic procedures, medications and physiotherapy, traditional medicine recipes can be used to get rid of keloids.

Lemon juice is used to treat various skin pathologies, including colloid scars. They should be gently applied to the affected area and left for 30 minutes. Afterwards, rinse off the juice with warm water. The procedure should be carried out every day for 1-2 months.

Another effective remedy for improving blood and lymph circulation in the keloid area is a collection of chamomile, yarrow and nettle.

Herbs have an anti-inflammatory and restorative effect.

You need to mix a tablespoon of each plant and pour 0.5 liters of boiling water. After 1-2 hours, dip a clean gauze bandage into the infusion, apply it to the keloid and leave for 1.5-2 hours. Treatment should be carried out within 60 days.

To moisturize the skin and improve blood microcirculation in the capillaries of the scar, you can apply honey to the affected area daily and massage for 10-15 minutes.

Attention! The use of traditional methods of combating keloids should be carried out in combination with the use of traditional medicine methods.

Physical methods

In some cases, it is necessary to resort to physical methods of influence - this is the most effective, but is already considered surgical intervention:

They have been trying to fight the problem of unaesthetic defects (scars) for a long time. Therefore, quite a lot of options for treating colloidal scars with folk remedies have also accumulated, and doctors prescribe them in certain situations, to enhance the effect of the main treatment or to prevent relapses.

But self-medication is strictly prohibited!

Stages of scar formation

Scar formation can last from several weeks to 1-1.5 years. It occurs in three main stages:

Epithelialization- initial stage. Over the course of about two weeks, the area of skin thickens, becomes pinkish and slightly swollen, and acquires a pale pink color;
Increase– the keloid begins to rise above the surface of the endometrium and acquires a brownish or bluish tint. This period lasts about a month;
Seal– the keloid becomes rough to the touch, dense nodes of connective tissue may form in it.

As the scar grows, each new affected area of skin goes through these phases of keloid formation.

Traditional medicine against colloid scars

Of course, folk recipes can serve as a good addition to treatment keloid formations on the body. They will help disguise the scar, soften it and have a resolving effect. Traditional methods are also good as prophylaxis after physiotherapy or taking special medications. Here are just a few of them:

against keloid formations, applications, lotions and compresses based on chamomile, woodlice, geranium, St. John's wort, fennel, mint, yarrow, and Japanese sophora are used. For example, for a compress based on wood lice, you need to take its leaves, compact them into a jar and fill them with sunflower oil. Then the jar is placed in a dark place for about a couple of weeks. Then they open it, filter the resulting infusion and apply it to the scar under a cotton pad for half an hour;
sea buckthorn oil, as well as a mixture of olive oil and honey Great for improving blood microcirculation for keloid scars;
scar tissue can be wiped with essential oils based on tea or rosewood, incense, rosemary or mint;
take equal parts melon seeds and eggshells, chop everything and mix. Add vegetable oil, mix again and apply the resulting slurry regularly to the scar for 2 months;
dilute the pea flour with milk to a dough-like consistency and place on the tripe, covering with film for an hour. It is recommended to carry out such procedures for about 2 months;
cabbage can have a regenerating effect on such formations. To do this, you need to chop several leaves and combine them with a spoon of honey. Apply to the affected area as a mask for an hour;
to get rid of small formations, take equal amounts of yarrow, knotweed, chamomile, nettle and St. John's wort, combine them and pour a glass of boiling water. Leave for 2 hours and apply to the affected area using a linen napkin;
Grind the marshmallow root, pour a glass of water into a spoon and leave for 9 hours. Then use it as a lotion, this infusion has a resolving effect and helps against swelling;
camphor oil helps treat relapses and can be used to prevent the disease. Soak a bandage or napkin with oil and apply it as a compress on the keloid scar for several hours;
Wash the larkspur root well, chop it and add a mixture of alcohol and water in equal proportions. Let it sit for about a week or a little more, then you can make applications or simply lubricate the affected area.

Why is a keloid dangerous?

A colloidal scar is not dangerous to human life and health, but it can cause a lot of discomfort and significantly reduce the quality of life. In severe cases, the keloid grows quickly, occupying large areas of the body, and often recurs. When it is damaged, bleeding develops, since there are many blood vessels in the scar. In people with weakened immune systems, an infection that gets into the keloid tissue can cause an inflammatory process.

Particular discomfort is caused by keloids formed in women as a result of cuts and tears in the perineum during childbirth. This growth causes quite severe pain and leads to disruption of sexual life. Therefore, if a woman is prone to the appearance of scars during pregnancy, she should regularly massage the perineum, and then resort to magnetic wave therapy procedures to prevent keloids.

Causes of keloids

Keloids are formed under the influence of external and internal factors on the skin. The causes of colloid scars are varied.:

Burns (chemical and thermal);
Hormonal disorders. Pregnancy can also cause this type of scar. This is due to changes in hormonal levels;
Wounds and abrasions;
Decrease in the body's defenses due to chronic pathology. Often true keloids occur in people with tuberculosis;
Incorrect suturing of the wound;

Removal of moles, papillomas;
Hereditary predisposition to the occurrence of massive connective tissue formations;
Furunculosis and severe acne;
Disruption of the processes of formation (strengthening) of connective tissue and collagen fibers.

Prevention

Preventive measures to avoid the appearance of a colloid scar:

Do not scratch or injure the scar formed at the wound site;
Use special postoperative bandages made of compression knitwear;
Treat injured skin with anti-scarring agents: “Sledotsit”, “Kontraktubeks”, “Rescuer”.
If you have previously developed keloids, then avoid piercings, tattoos and injection cosmetic procedures.

Diagnosis

There is no problem in diagnosing the occurrence of this problem. Any specialist in the field of dermatology or surgery, with a standard initial examination, will be able to do this with the naked eye, based on the external history and comments of the patient.

After this, an effective course of therapy is selected, and if this does not bring any results, then one of the methods of disposal is often recommended.

Creams, ointments, gels

Among the external preparations for the treatment of scars are those well known to many TV viewers: “Kontraktubeks” (ointment), “Lioton” (gel). There is also Kelofibrase (cream), hydrocortisone ointment (1%), Spenco (silicone gel pads), Mepitel (adhesive absorbent coatings with silicone), Zeraderm Ultra (cream that forms a protective film on the skin), Scarguard (liquid that protects skin from irritation and at the same time creating pressure on it).

The essence of using pressure bandages, pads, creams and liquids that form a pressure film on the skin is to slow down the growth and development of scar cells using compression. To achieve a positive result, these funds must be used for a long time (several months). What result can be achieved this way? The scar will become flat, paler, and the pain and itching in its area will disappear.

Causes of primary (spontaneous) scars

Spontaneous colloids form for no apparent reason. Old injuries may not be completely cured, although the skin in their place is no different from healthy ones. In this case, the formation of scars can be caused by disturbances in the functioning of the organs and systems of the body, as well as various infectious diseases. Doctors associate the appearance of colloids with a person’s predisposition to seborrhea. This is due to the fact that scars usually appear in places characteristic of seborrhea: the neck, shoulder blades, chin, ears and décolleté. Multiple scars can occur as a result of a genetic predisposition.

Photos before and after the procedure

Types of scars, difference from hypertrophic ones

The scar may be shaped like a star, a fan, or linear. Scars rarely grow on the face. Most often, raised scars can be seen on the chest, neck and shoulders. There are cases of complications in the form of keloids after ear piercing.

There are also old and young colloid scars. Keloids under five years of age are considered young. They are usually smooth and shiny. Old keloid scars are usually bluish, wrinkled and uneven.

Hypertrophic scars are similar in appearance to colloid scars, but do not extend beyond the wound, become comparable to the surface of the skin without treatment in about a year, and do not hurt or itch.

Physical impact

The patient may be prescribed one of the following treatment methods:

Surgical excision of pathological tissues. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the open wound does not get infected.
Radiation therapy is used very rarely due to the risk of developing cancer in the future. This method is used after surgery, the procedure is carried out four times over two weeks.
Freezing with liquid nitrogen. The doctor conducts three therapy sessions. This method of treatment gives good results.
Laser therapy has the advantage that healthy tissue is not injured. But often such treatment leads to the development of relapse of the pathology, since the laser affects only the superficial layer of the scar.
Electrophoresis is used at the initial stage of pathology development.

Secondary keloids

Secondary keloids are formed as a result of injuries, as well as various thermal or chemical burns of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. In certain cases, a pathological formation is formed at the site of a former boil, stoma or trophic ulcer.

In addition, the colloidal scar (pictured) can be classified by age. A distinction is made between old scars and recently formed ones. Young keloids have a pronounced bright color and a glossy smooth surface. Old scars are distinguished by a large number of connective tissue nodes, pale color and roughness. A few years after formation, scars stop growing in size.

Colloid scars should be distinguished from other skin neoplasms. In cases where the emerging growth has a soft consistency, quickly increases in size and is accompanied by swelling of nearby tissues, then there are certain reasons to suspect the development of a malignant tumor process.

Let's sum it up

Colloid scars and keloid scars are different names for the same disease.
The keloid scar grows in different directions, is convex, hurts and itches.
A hypertrophied scar is similar to a colloid scar, but it does not extend beyond the skin damage, can go away on its own and usually does not hurt.
Science has not established the exact cause of the appearance of a keloid scar.
Treatment of colloid scar requires a long time.
It is impossible to completely remove a scar.
Any damage to the skin can trigger the formation of a colloidal scar.
Keloid scars are treated with external agents (creams, ointments, gels, compresses, silicone pads), interferon injections, steroid injections, surgery and radiation.
A colloidal scar is not an oncological disease, but a benign tumor, a skin defect that causes physical discomfort and forms psychological complexes.
The formation of a pathological scar is easier to prevent than to treat.

The causative factors for the formation of primary keloid scars are:

completed injuries that are not visible on the surface of the skin;
hormonal imbalance;
pregnancy;
infectious diseases in chronic form (tuberculosis, etc.);
hereditary cause.

The causative factors for the formation of secondary keloid scars are:

injuries of varying intensity.
poor-quality removal of warts and moles.
comedones.

Consequences

Many people are wondering whether colloidal scars are dangerous for the body? No, they are completely safe, and they get rid of this defect for purely aesthetic reasons. Discomfort may occur if the formation appears on joint bends and in places subject to constant friction.

In some situations colloid scars tighten fabrics and skin, so they have to be hidden with clothing.

But malignant tumors can develop from these formations if radiation therapy is not promptly applied.

Disease prevention

In order for the colloid scar to heal successfully, it is necessary to apply a number of measures.

The use of bandages is mandatory to ensure that there is constant pressure on the damaged area.
Under no circumstances should you self-medicate using aggressive agents such as vinegar and the like.
If small-sized pustules appear on the neoplasm, under no circumstances should they be squeezed out, but it is better to immediately seek help from a specialist.
Self-massaging of the tumor is excluded.
There is no need to abuse high temperatures: solariums, saunas and anywhere where the scar can overheat.
Do not immediately use products containing heparin, such as Contractubex, immediately after healing.
Avoid infection, wounds and tension around the tumor.

Feature

The main characteristic feature of colloidal scars is the minimal relationship between the size of the scar and the severity of the initial skin injury. In most cases, scars form at the site of minor abrasions and scratches, acne, injections, and insect bites. In some people, for also unknown reasons, keloids form in areas of completely healthy skin. In this case, scars most often form on inactive areas of the body, for example:

In the navel area, on the stomach.
Behind the ears and on the lobes.
On the shoulders and shoulder blades.
On the chest, neck and collarbone area.
At the base of the neck.

Briefly about further skin care

It is important to wash and moisturize the defect site in a timely manner.. Thanks to this, the renewal of koi cells will occur faster and regeneration will accelerate. Every time you shower, you should thoroughly moisturize your skin; it is better if you use organic products: olive, coconut, sea buckthorn oils.

In the modern world, a keloid scar is far from a stigma that a person, having received once, is obliged to bear throughout his life. A large number of clinics and private specialists are ready to help with a specific method and get rid of an unpleasant defect. The main thing is not to delay the healing process of the keloid for a long time and contact a specialist in time.

Scars are formations of connective tissue that occur at the site of damage to body tissue. Scars are a physiological phenomenon, the result of healing of damaged tissue. With a normal healing process, scars on the skin after some time become almost invisible and do not cause any inconvenience to the person.

What are hypertrophic and keloid scars?

With some individual characteristics of the body, there is an excessive growth of connective tissue during the healing process. As a result, hypertrophic or keloid scars occur. A keloid is a dense growth of connective tissue that resembles a tumor.

The main differences between keloid scars and hypertrophic ones:

A keloid scar extends beyond the wound, while a hypertrophic scar only rises above its surface.
A hypertrophic scar does not manifest itself in any way, except for its appearance, while with a keloid, patients often complain of pain, itching in the scar, a feeling of skin tightening and paresthesia (impaired sensitivity) in the wound area.
Hypertrophic scars regress over time - they become flattened, become pale, but a keloid scar practically does not change - its color remains purple or bluish, as blood vessels grow into the keloid tissue.
Differences at the microscopic level - in a keloid scar there is 7-8 times more collagen than in a hypertrophic one.

So, you can suspect a keloid scar based on the following signs: a rough, unsightly scar with a color ranging from pale pink to purple-bluish forms at the site of the wound. This scar can pulsate and cause unpleasant sensations - pain, itching, decreased sensitivity of the skin. A keloid in its shape resembles a tumor and extends to the sides beyond the boundaries of the wound, while greatly rising above its surface.

Causes of keloid scars

These scars can form even with the most minor damage to the skin - abrasions and scratches.

The reasons may be:

incorrect alignment of wound edges;
infection in the wound followed by suppuration;
excessive skin tension when suturing;
hormonal imbalance;
immunodeficiency;
hereditary predisposition.

Who is most likely to develop keloid scars?

A tendency to keloid scars is observed in people aged 10-40 years. Old people and children are much less likely to develop keloids. This is explained by the maximum regenerative ability of the skin in adulthood. In children, the skin is more elastic and heals normally, while in older people, atrophic scars most often form.

Scientists have noted the dependence of the localization of keloid scars depending on race. For example, white-skinned people tend to develop keloid scars on the face, upper limbs and chest, while Asians rarely develop keloids on the chest. In black people, keloids form at a higher rate on the legs. These facts suggest a genetic predisposition to the formation of keloid scars.

Treatment of keloid scars

The main rule to follow when treating keloids is to prevent their occurrence.

Patients prone to keloid scars should avoid any cosmetic surgery. During operations performed for life-saving reasons, the patient should inform the surgeon about his predisposition to keloid. In this case, the doctor will avoid excessive skin tension when closing postoperative wounds. It is advisable not to make incisions along the sternum and joint surfaces - in these places the likelihood of a keloid appearing is much higher.

There are several methods for treating keloid scars, grouped into the following groups::

medicinal methods(use of corticosteroids and immunomodulators - drugs that affect the formation of collagen in the rumen);
surgical methods aimed at excision of excess tissue (excision with a scalpel, laser and cryosurgery);
occlusal techniques– use of pressure bandages;
physiotherapeutic methods– electrophoresis, magnetic therapy;
radiation therapy;
correction of keloids using cosmetics.

Let's take a closer look at each of the methods.

Medicines in the treatment of keloid scars

The use of corticosteroids - intraruminal administration of hormonal drugs leads to a decrease in collagen synthesis and reduces the concentration of inflammatory substances. The most commonly used injection is triamcinolone acetate - two or three injections with an interval of 1-2 months. Another option is the use of hormonal ointments. These methods may be accompanied by complications such as scar atrophy, the appearance of telangiectasia (spider veins) and changes in pigmentation.

The use of immunomodulators is the latest treatment method. Interferon injected into the suture line can prevent the recurrence of a keloid scar after its excision.

Enzyme preparations help reduce the keloid by destroying its structural components - hyaluronic acid and collagen. Similar drugs include: Lidaza and Ronidaza. A more modern drug is Longidase, which is a combination of hyaluronidase with polyoxidonium (immunomodulator). The most effective method of administering enzyme preparations is phonophoresis or ultraphonophoresis.

Another drug with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, which has been used for many years to treat post-burn hypertrophic and keloid scars: “Kontratubeks”.

The resorption of collagen in the scar is facilitated by the drug "Fermenkol".

The effect of using medications is observed 3-4 weeks after the start of their use. The optimal effect develops after 2-3 courses of phonophoresis or after 10-15 application sessions.

Surgical techniques for removing keloid scars

Surgical removal of keloid scars is the least effective way to treat them - relapses are observed in 50-100% of cases. The best option is a combination of excision with the application of occlusive (pressure) dressings. A tight bandage is applied for several days after surgery.

Cryosurgery is the short-term freezing of the scar with liquid nitrogen. In some cases, 2-3 freezing cycles of 20-30 seconds are enough to achieve the desired effect.

Laser therapy - the effect of pulsed laser radiation on scar tissue causes reduction due to collagen contraction. Another effect of the laser is the cauterization of the scar.

Surgical techniques are most effective when combined with postoperative corticosteroids - in this case, the relapse rate is minimal.

Physical methods

Applying tight silicone bandages to the scar leads to its reduction in approximately 20-25% of cases. However, prolonged round-the-clock wearing of these bandages is required - for 6-8 months, which causes severe discomfort.

Radiation therapy

Exposure of the surface of a keloid scar to ionizing radiation (Bucca rays) causes the destruction of collagen fibers, which leads to a decrease in the volume of scar tissue. Up to 6 radiation sessions are prescribed with an interval of 1.5-2 months. This method of treatment is contraindicated for kidney disease, unhealed wounds and skin diseases.

Cosmetic procedures

Note:dermabrasion, peelings are effective only in the treatment of hypertrophic scars - when exposed to such aggressive techniques on a keloid scar, there is a high risk of relapse and even greater growth of the keloid.

You should know that hypertrophic scars should be resurfaced only after they have completely stabilized. Signs of complete stabilization of such scars are their acquisition of normal color (skin color or slightly paler) and a slight decrease in volume.

Chemical peels for hypertrophic scars are carried out in two stages. At the first stage, a silicone cream is used to protect the skin from drying out and help stabilize the scar. At the second stage, the peeling itself is carried out.

What is the most effective method of treating keloid scars?

Undoubtedly, the most effective method is the use of hormonal injections. Small to medium scars can be almost completely removed with corticosteroid ointments. For large scars, it is recommended to use a combination of several methods - excision of the scar followed by the use of occlusive dressings and the introduction of corticosteroids with immunomodulators.

Any damage to the skin initially causes pain, and then, when it heals, it reminds of itself as a scar. There are several varieties, but keloids are considered the most problematic. They are unpleasant because they grow far beyond the wound and have a multi-layered, ugly surface.

This scar can appear for a number of reasons. Medicine offers various methods for removing such scars, but the exact causes of their occurrence have not yet been established, so there is no way to prevent their formation, as well as completely cure the body of them.

What is the procedure

This is a scar that occurs as a result of severe damage to the skin. This includes cutting and squeezing pimples. They can significantly disrupt the integrity of the skin, after which smooth tissue without hair, blood vessels and sweat glands will appear on its surface. This place becomes very sensitive to ultraviolet radiation and various environmental influences.

Keloid scars have a convex surface and come in different shapes: from a regular dot to an intricate pattern. Thin skin is especially prone to them, so it is not recommended to squeeze out pimples on it yourself; it is better to consult a specialist.

If after some cosmetic procedures a predisposition to the formation of keloid scars has been identified, then mechanical facial cleansing should be abandoned and replaced with more gentle procedures. Facial cleansing can be done with soft peeling with fruit acids, which do not injure the skin. Laser hair removal on the face can also lead to the formation of such scars, so it is worth replacing it with depilation or simply lightening the hair.

The video talks about the treatment of keloid scars:

Why do they appear

There are many possible reasons for their formation:

hereditary factor;
as a result of endocrine diseases;
immune system failure;
age-related changes;
insect or animal bite;
disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system;
removal of moles or other types of scars.

In the photo - a keloid scar

But they don't always occur. Typically, normotrophic scars are formed at the site of cuts or burns, which have a more aesthetic appearance and are easier to eliminate than keloid counterparts. The latter also occur after mechanical damage, but “decorate” the skin with a rough blue scar. They often form in young people under 30 years of age.

Application of medical methods

They can be eliminated by surgical, hardware and therapeutic methods. In the latter case, the hypertrophic form of the scar is converted into a more invisible normotrophic one. The surgical and hardware method involves excision of scars. It can be complete or partial.

The method of getting rid of such scars is prescribed by the doctor based on the location of the scar, its shape, size and age of the tumor. They are divided into young, which range in age from 3 months to five years, and mature.

The nature of the appearance of these scars has not yet been fully revealed; over time, their appearance and condition worsen and it is quite possible that one method may not be able to remove them, so it is advisable to use several methods at once.

The following methods exist:

drug therapy;
physical and physiotherapeutic methods;
cosmetic scar removal procedures;
X-ray therapy;
use of medicines;
radiation intervention.

Drug therapy

This is done in one of the following ways:

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapeutic methods include the following procedures:

Squeezing. It is carried out with special bandages or patches containing silicone. It should be used immediately after the scar has healed, then it may go away in 3 months. In more severe cases, treatment may last a year.
Microcurrents. They act as a result of electrophoresis, phonophoresis or other procedures that can affect the structure of the scar by introducing local agents into it: Skarguard, Lyoton, Contractubex, Dermatix and others. Contraindications for using microcurrents on the face are described.

In the photo - keloid scars:

Laser removal

Laser removal of keloid scars is performed by gluing together small capillaries that nourish the scar tissue. Two types of lasers are used: argon or carbon. To avoid side effects, this treatment is carried out in conjunction with hormone therapy. After ten sessions of laser therapy, not a trace remains of the scar.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery affects the keloid scar with liquid nitrogen. It is used in short sessions for 15 seconds, this is enough to cause damage to the connective tissue. It is advisable to perform surgical intervention only in case of large scars, otherwise the risk of such an operation will be unjustified. It is used in conjunction with other types of treatment.

Video shows removal of keloid scars:

X-ray therapy

X-ray therapy involves the destruction of fibroblasts and old cells. They disappear as a result of radiation, but its dose is so small that it affects only the outer layers of the scar, without penetrating inside. Therefore, injury to healthy tissue is excluded. But this therapy, like its radiation counterpart, has many contraindications. In particular, it cannot be performed on people who have problems with the heart, kidneys, or problems in the circulatory system.

Cosmetic procedures and hormonal therapy

The use of cosmetic procedures is carried out with the aim of visually correcting small scars that formed no more than six months ago.

With this treatment, the effect on the tissue must be carried out in a gentle manner, so the following procedures are chosen:

peeling using fruit acids;
mesotherapy;
deep dermabrasion.

They are carried out superficially, without disturbing the deep layers of the skin, this prevents further enlargement of the keloid scar.

With hormonal therapy, steroids (such as Diprospan) are injected into the scar tissue. Injections are given once a month, but after stopping them, even if noticeable results are visible, a relapse may occur.

Drug therapy

Drug therapy involves the use of ointments and creams that act locally. This method is considered ineffective, but with regular use of these drugs on new scars, they can resolve within two months. They can be used by pregnant women and children, so many people choose this method of getting rid of scars.

Cream is often used for these purposes.

After getting rid of the keloid, it is necessary to take preventive measures, which consist of repeating light therapy and using products with high ultraviolet protection.

At home

Post-acne that has recently formed can be removed on your own at home using a cosmetic clay mask, which is selected depending on your skin type. Creams used to eliminate acne and their consequences are also suitable for these purposes. These products include: “Zinerit” and “Skinoren”. An effective method is a bodyagi mask; it is great for oily skin. After using it, you should not go outside for the next 2 days, so the procedure should be carried out on Friday evening.

The video explains how to remove keloid scars at home:

The mask is prepared in several stages:

it is applied to a previously cleansed face or area where there is a keloid scar.
Its preparation consists of mixing half a packet of bodyaga with baby powder, which is taken in the same quantity. In a separate container, add one tsp. 3% hydrogen peroxide, calendula tincture and face lotion. The contents of the two containers are mixed.
Then the mass is applied to the face. Allow time to dry. Afterwards, do not wash your face, but shake off all excess mask with a napkin. There is also no need to apply cream. It can be used only after 12 hours after using the product.

A vegetable mask can be used to remove scars. It is prepared from one medium cucumber and tomato. Only their pulp is used. It is crushed in a blender and then applied to a cosmetic disc. Then rubbed into the scar. The acids contained in these vegetables can restore damaged skin and reduce scars. After its disappearance, the procedure should be carried out once a month for prevention.

Rice scrub will not only eliminate the keloid scar, but also rejuvenate the skin. To prepare it, you need to grind two tbsp in a meat grinder or blender. spoons of rice. Then add one teaspoon to this mixture. olive oil, kefir and lemon juice. The mixture should be applied only to the scar, avoiding contact with other areas. The mass is rubbed into the affected area using massaging movements for ten minutes. The procedure should be repeated three times a week.

The concept of genetic polymorphisms of cytokines in keloid scars

This is a new direction in the study of genetic predisposition in medicine. It is a molecular study of human genes for predisposition to various diseases. After such examinations, it immediately becomes clear: genetics is to blame for the formation of scars or it is an acquired feature of the body. Treatment depends on this.

When such scars are removed, old tissues are destroyed, and new ones intertwine more tightly, filling the former scar. The introduction of cytokines promotes rapid healing of wounds, they quickly restore connective tissue.

When treating keloid scars, not only their appearance improves, but also the affected area is restored, relapse is prevented and local symptoms are eliminated. If no side effects appear within two years after treatment, it means it was successful.