Keloids are a type of raised scar that forms when the skin heals after an injury but produces too much collagen. Unlike normal scars, keloids grow beyond the original wound and may continue to enlarge over time. They often appear firm, thick, shiny, and can be pink, red, or darker than the surrounding skin. Keloids are more common on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks, and they tend to occur more often in people with darker skin tones or a family history of keloid formation.

While keloids are not harmful to overall health, they can cause itching, tenderness, pain, or discomfort. Many people also seek treatment because of cosmetic concerns, especially when keloids appear on visible areas like the face or ears.

Treatment options include corticosteroid injections to shrink and soften the keloid, laser therapy to reduce redness and thickness, silicone sheets or gels to flatten scars, and cryotherapy (freezing) for small keloids. In some cases, surgical removal is considered, but keloids often recur after surgery unless combined with other treatments such as radiation or steroid injections. Because of the high recurrence rate, doctors usually recommend a combination approach rather than surgery alone.

The best point to know about keloids is that while they are stubborn and prone to returning, proper treatment tailored to the scar type and location can greatly improve appearance, relieve symptoms, and prevent regrowth.