A keloid is a greatly enlarged scar that projects above the skin surface. The skin heals by formation of scar tissue, which at first is often red and somewhat prominent. As the months pass, a scar usually becomes flat. Unfortunately, sometimes scars enlarge to form firm, smooth, hard growths called keloids.

• We don't know why keloids form.
• While most people never form keloids, others develop them after minor injuries and even insect bites or pimples.
• Keloids may form on any part of the body, although the upper chest and upper back are especially prone to keloid formation.
• Keloids are a cosmetic nuisance and never become malignant.
• Keloids occur more frequently in dark-skinned people.

There is no satisfactory treatment for keloids.

Some doctors have had success injecting keloids with bleomycin an anticancer drug.

The best treatment is to inject a long-acting cortisone into the keloid once a month. After several injections with cortisone, the keloid usually becomes less noticeable and flattens in three to six months time.

A new treatment for keloids is to apply a silicone gel preparation over the keloid scar for 12-24 hours each day. This treatment is started three to four weeks after the wound or injury. The gel preparation should be covered with an ace bandage, cloth wrap, or tape and changed every 7-10 days based upon need. Silicone gel is available from your doctor. The gel can be washed and used over each day. With daily use, the keloid will become flatter and smoother within two to twelve months.