Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal

Different Removal Methods, Approaches and Products

Hypertrophic Keloid Scar

Hypertrophic and keloid scars are the results of an abnormal mass of dense tissue formation at the healing site when the skin fights off inflammation. It will look raised and usually has a pink or purple color.

Hypertrophic scars are more common and are less severe than keloid scars.

Hypertrophic scars do not ‘grow’ or ‘spread’ and usually fade away with time. With keloid scars, there is a tendency or possibility that it will ‘grow’ and spread’ and generally, they are more difficult to remove.

Exactly who gets keloid scars depends very much on genetics and family history, although African Americans and Latin Americans are more susceptible to this type of raised scarring.

For hypertrophic scars, which are more common, anyone from any ethnic background can get them.

However, everyone heals in a different way no matter what ethnic background. The same injury or scar could fade quickly without trace on some people, whilst others will develop visible scars that is very obvious.

Products for Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal

There are products on the market such as ScarGuard MD 1oz/30ml or Kelo-cote for scars which will help flatten and smooth out keloid scars. These products are typically for surgery scars but can also be applied to acne keloid scars. Results do not happen overnight though and you will need to use it for 45 days+ to see significant results, so be patient.

A product that is also recommended is Mederma¿ Cream with SPF 30, 1.76-Ounce Tubes It has a sun protection factor of 30+ which protects the skin from uv rays that could darken existing scar tissues. This is a good option for those with discolorations on or around their scars.

Another product that is good for raised keloid scars is the ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Scar Treatment Sheets – Full Dr. Recommended 12 Week Supply,  this is in sheet form much like a bandage and is great for large and small scars. The pressure from the sheet will also help reduce swelling and speed up the healing process.

If the above treatments are not sufficient, you may want to consider interferon or corticosteriod injections.

Interferon or Corticosteriod Injections for Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal:

These injections usually come in a course of 4-6 or more depending on what your dermatologist suggests. Cortisone is injected into the scar tissue, usually once a month, and the results will be closely monitored.

Normally, results can be seen after 3-4 injections where the raised tissue will be flatter and less obvious.

If the scar is small and your skin fair, liquid nitrogen or cryotherapy could be used to freeze it off.

IPL Laser Treatment for hypertrophic keloid scar removal

More and more dermatologists are also using intense pulsed light (IPL) laser treatment for raised hypertrophic keloid scar removal. It will smooth out the scars, reduce redness and lessen uncomfortable itching.

What works best depends on the individual, the severity of the scars, how an individual responds to treatment and whether a combination of two (interferon injections and cryotheraphy together have reported good results) or even three treatments (a combination of two of the above treatments with surgery for example) may be the answer.

As always, discuss the options with your dermatologist or plastic surgeon for the best hypertrophic keloid scar removal treatment; but don’t leave it too long – the sooner you deal with it, the better the chances of successful scar removal.

Video : Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal

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