Causative factors and remedies for keloids predominant in darker skin tones
In the realm of skin conditions, keloids stand out as a common concern, particularly for individuals with darker skin types. These raised, smooth, and often itchy or painful scars are the result of an overactive healing response that causes excess collagen production, leading to scar tissue growth beyond the original injury boundaries [1][3][5].
Keloids can be triggered by various types of skin trauma, such as acne, burns, cuts, infections, surgery, piercings, tattoos, and even minor scratches or punctures [1][5]. For instance, acne can initiate inflammation and scarring that leads to keloids, particularly on the face, shoulders, and chest. Piercings, especially earlobe piercings, are a frequent cause of keloids on the ear area.
People with a family history of keloids, experiencing hormonal upsurges, having systemic conditions, between the ages of 10 and 30 years, and those with rare conditions such as Goeminne syndrome are at a higher risk of developing keloids [1][3][5]. Darker skin tones are more likely to develop keloids, indicating a strong genetic component.
Common causes of keloids in individuals with darker skin types include genetic susceptibility (family history), skin injuries from acne, burns, cuts, infections, surgery, piercings, tattoos, and inflammatory skin conditions at the injury site [1][3][5].
Fortunately, several treatment options are available to manage keloids. Corticosteroid injections can shrink a keloid, with 50-80% shrinkage, but keloids may return within 5 years [1]. Laser treatment reduces the height of a keloid and fades its color, while cryotherapy decreases the size of a keloid by freezing it [1].
Surgical removal of a keloid is not a permanent solution, as almost 100% of keloids reoccur after surgery. However, the combination of surgery then a pressure dressing, earring, or garment is 90-100% effective in preventing a keloid from returning, although these devices are not always comfortable and must be worn for extended periods [1].
The combination of surgery then corticosteroids or cryotherapy may help reduce the risk of recurrence. In some cases, the use of radiation can also be effective in reducing the risk of a keloid returning [1].
Prevention is key, and people can reduce their risk of developing keloids by paying close attention after ear piercings, testing the skin before tattoos, body piercings, or cosmetic surgery, informing surgeons before surgery, and practicing proper wound care after any skin injuries [1].
It's essential to note that keloids are more of a cosmetic issue than a health problem and do not turn into cancer. In approximately one-third of cases, keloids may flatten naturally, and the keloids that disappear spontaneously do so early [1].
For those seeking advice on treatment plans and prevention strategies, consulting a dermatologist is highly recommended [1].
References: [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470312/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3671919/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5986089/
- Health-and-wellness conscious individuals might want to be aware that chronic-diseases like keloids, which are characterized by raised, smooth scars, are more prevalent in individuals with darker skin types due to a genetic predisposition.
- Medical-conditions such as keloids, which are often triggered by skin trauma such as acne or piercings, are a concern in the field of skin-care, particularly for those with darker skin tones.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, it's crucial to understand that keloids, although a cosmetic issue, can be prevented by practicing proper wound care after skin injuries, especially when it comes to piercings or tattoos.
