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There are a variety of different scar types that can range from minor blemishes to severe and constricting tissue. The type of treatment they require depends on the type and extent of the scar formation. One of the most difficult types of scars to treat are keloids.

Keloids - What are They?

Keloids aren't actually considered scars. As a matter of fact, they are benign fibrotic tumors that contain atypical fibroblasts. They are also characterized by an excessive amount of components that make up the skin, namely: collagen, elastin and proteogylcans.

Generally, keloids contain relatively acellular centers and thick, abundant collagen bundles that form nodules in the deep dermal portion of the lesion. They can cause pain, severe itching, and disfigurement. One of the main problems facing keloid scar treatment are that this scar grows continually and has a high rate of recurrence.

Keloid scar tissue can be small or quite extensive. Not only does size determine the severity of this scar tissue, but also its location. If a keloid scar appears over a joint, it can cause problems with mobility as well as pain.

Treating Keloids

There are several way of treating keloids. They include compression dressings, steroid injections, cryosurgery, silicone sheeting, surgery, and radiation and laser therapy. Undergoing both cryosurgery and the application of steroid injections is very successful for treating small keloids. However, if you're trying to treat larger keloids then you'll probably have to undergo surgery.

Nevertheless, keloid treatment isn't just about keloid removal. Successful keloid scar treatment should always include procedures that are implemented before, during, and after surgery. Here's a quick overview of keloid scar removal.

Before and during surgery, a specialist will inject steroids into the scar tissue to help dissolve the scar. Studies have shown that this minimizes the rate of recurrence. Once the keloid is removed, the area must be cared for carefully.

Another treatment used after keloid scar removal surgery, is the use of compression therapy or silicone sheets to help keep the keloid from recurring. In some people compression may need last as long as twelve months.

Laser and radiation therapy are also treatment methods that help deal with keloids. Laser therapy uses a laser to produce a superficial peel. There is a higher success rate when laser therapy is used in conjunction with silicone sheeting or steroid injections.

Another type of treatment that is most effective when used soon after surgery is radiation. When used while the wound is healing it becomes even more effective.

Gels and creams can also be used for scar treatment. Products that are 100% silicone are also very effective. Products containing onion extract have also been known to be very effective in treating all kinds of post traumatic wounds.

No matter which product or treatment you decide to use you have to remember one thing, you must be persistent. This is the only way for the treatment to be successful.