Scars and Keloids

Scars are caused by cuts, scrapes, surgeries, acne, or any other injury to the skin. When the skin is traumatized, the result is a scar. There is no way to cut the skin and not get one, however scars don’t have to be ugly or obvious. Often times, they go unnoticed because they are minimally different in color and texture than the surrounding skin. It can even be a long scar and not look bad, as long as the texture and color blends in well. The way scars heal depends on where it’s located on the skin, how it was repaired, and how the original injury occurred.

The exact reason some people develop keloids is not fully understood, but several factors increase the risk:

• Family history
• Previous keloids
• Darker skin tones
• Younger age
• Skin injuries or surgery
• Piercings and tattoos

Even minor skin injuries can occasionally lead to keloid formation in susceptible individuals.

No. Every scar is permanent, but many can be made significantly less noticeable with appropriate treatment.

A scar forms when the skin produces collagen to repair an injury. The appearance of a scar depends on many factors, including:

• The depth and size of the wound
• Your age
• Genetics
• Skin type and skin tone
• The location on the body
• How the wound healed

Many scars become flatter and lighter over time, but others remain thick, depressed, or noticeably discolored.

Scars can appear in several different forms.

Flat Scars: Most scars gradually flatten and lighten with time. Although they remain permanent, they often become much less noticeable.

Hypertrophic Scars: These scars are raised but remain within the original wound boundaries. They may improve gradually over several years.

Keloids: Keloids extend beyond the original injury and can continue growing for months or even years. They may itch, become tender, or feel firm.

Atrophic Scars: These sunken scars develop when tissue is lost during healing. Acne scars and chickenpox scars commonly fall into this category.

Contracture Scars: Often seen after burns, contracture scars tighten the surrounding skin and may limit movement depending on their location.

Unfortunately, yes. Keloids have a relatively high recurrence rate after treatment, particularly if removed surgically without additional therapy. For this reason, dermatologists often combine treatments — such as surgery with corticosteroid injections or other therapies — to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

People who have developed keloids previously should tell their dermatologist before elective surgery or piercings. Early preventive treatment after skin injury may reduce the risk of recurrence.

Treatment depends on the type of acne scar. Microneedling, laser treatments, chemical peels, and combination therapies are often effective for improving skin texture.

Schedule an evaluation if you have:

• A scar that continues growing
• A raised scar that is painful or itchy
• A scar that limits movement
• Acne scars that affect your confidence
• A scar that changes in appearance
• Concerns about healing after surgery

Early treatment often produces better cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Insurance may cover treatment for scars or keloids that cause pain, itching, bleeding, or functional problems. Cosmetic scar treatments are often not covered. Our team can discuss your options during your consultation.