What should I do if a keloid is itchy?

Written by Cao Jin Jun
Aesthetic Medicine
Updated on September 25, 2024
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Keloids can be very itchy when at home. You can use some cryotherapy such as applying ice for treatment. However, if the results are unsatisfactory, it might be necessary to visit a hospital for a comprehensive treatment, including medication. Treatment based on the condition can control these symptoms. The itching occurs because the skin's metabolic system is damaged, causing metabolic products to accumulate in the scar.

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Can hypertrophic scars be effectively treated?

Hypertrophic scars are related to constitutional issues, generally directly associated with congenital genetic factors. Thus, while it is possible to improve the condition of hypertrophic scars, it is impossible to completely remove them, as altering such constitutional issues entirely is very challenging. When dealing with hypertrophic scars, one can choose various methods to alleviate the condition, such as improving local tissue vitality through massage, which can promote skin regeneration and thus mitigate the effects of hypertrophic scars. Additionally, treatments for hypertrophic scars can include laser surgery or the use of medications that invigorate blood circulation and disperse blood stasis. Importantly, preventing wounds and thus avoiding scar formation is crucial for optimal prevention. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor, and do not self-medicate).

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What does "scar constitution" mean?

Scar constitution is a type of special genetic constitution, typically leading to larger scars from minor injuries, especially in areas such as the chest and back where skin and muscles are tense. People with scar constitution should avoid injuries or bumps, particularly avoiding scratching or squeezing folliculitis on the chest, as scars formed are difficult to completely remove. Common anti-scar medications often do not work well. If scar proliferation is significant, treatment with medical injections in a standardized hospital's dermatology department may be required. Regular exercise, boosting the immune system, avoiding spicy or irritating food, and avoiding staying up late can help reduce the frequency of this condition.

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How to repair hypertrophic scars?

In cases of trauma or injury, it is very easy to develop hypertrophic scars. Generally, the size and depth of the wound are related factors. Scars often present with symptoms like redness, itching, and raised hard areas. There are mainly two approaches to treat this type of scar. The first method involves improvement through medications, using topical drugs or local injections to help eliminate hypertrophic scars. The second method involves surgical approaches, such as laser surgery, which is a common method of repair. Generally, local burning from the procedure can achieve certain effects. Of course, after using laser surgery, a specific recovery period is required. During this period, it is necessary to avoid infections to aid in the repair of hypertrophic scars.

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What should I do about auricular keloids?

Auricular keloids are a relatively common clinical condition, which may be related to an individual's scar constitution. Firstly, it is necessary to examine the size of the keloid. If the keloid is small, without obvious enlarging, redness, pain, infection, or inflammation, this situation generally can be considered for observation followed by regular ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist follow-ups to check for any rapid growth. However, if the keloid is large and progressively growing, surgical removal should be considered. After the surgery, local superficial radiation therapy can be considered to help prevent postoperative recurrence.

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The difference between hypertrophic scars and keloids

In a strict sense, hypertrophic scars and keloids are similar in their pathogenesis. For hypertrophic scars, the typical presentation is localized overgrowth at the scar site, which means that there is an overgrowth during the wound healing process, resulting in a relatively large and numerous scar. Keloids represent a more severe condition where there is a localized raised scar on the wound, which can be significantly large, sometimes resembling a bug on the surface of the scar. They are more likely to occur in areas like the neck, behind the ears, and under the earlobes. For the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids, if the patient has a predisposition to scarring, considerations include early intervention during wound suturing and healing, such as injection of medications or radiation therapy.