From the Guidelines
A raised scar is called a keloid or hypertrophic scar. These types of scars are characterized by excessive collagen production during the healing process, leading to abnormal scar growth. According to a study published in Pediatrics in 2017 1, teenagers with a personal or family history of keloids should be cautious about the risk associated with scarification and other body modification processes, as they are more prone to developing keloids.
Key Characteristics of Raised Scars
- Keloids are abnormal scars that grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound
- Hypertrophic scars are raised but remain within the boundaries of the initial injury
- Both types of scars result from excessive collagen production during the healing process
- Keloids tend to be more pronounced, often appearing red or darker than surrounding skin, and may continue to grow over time
- They commonly occur on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks
Treatment Options
- Silicone sheets or gel
- Corticosteroid injections
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Laser therapy
- Surgical removal combined with other treatments to prevent recurrence It's essential to note that the formation of keloids can be influenced by genetic factors, age, and skin type, with darker skin tones being more susceptible to keloid formation, as mentioned in the context of scarification and body modification processes 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
When the strength and dosage form of the drug lend the preparation to the treatment of the condition, those products labeled for intralesional administration are indicated for: Keloids The term for a raised scar is a keloid 2.
From the Research
Raised Scar Types
- Hypertrophic scars: These are raised scars that can occur after injury, surgery, or burns 3, 4, 5.
- Keloid scars: These are also raised scars, but they can grow larger than the original wound and can be itchy or painful 3, 4, 5.
Characteristics of Raised Scars
- Hypertrophic scars are typically red, raised, and can be itchy or painful 4, 5.
- Keloid scars are also red, raised, and can be itchy or painful, but they can also grow larger than the original wound 3, 4, 5.
Treatment Options for Raised Scars
- Silicone-based products, such as sheets and gels, are recommended as a first-line treatment for hypertrophic and keloid scars 3, 4.
- Intralesional corticosteroids and 5-fluorouracil can also be used to treat raised scars 3, 4.
- Laser therapy, including pulse dye lasers and ablative fractional lasers, can be used to treat raised scars 4, 6, 7.
- Surgical excision and compression therapy can also be used to treat raised scars 3, 5.