How to Get Rid of Keloids

Summary: Have you ever gotten a cut or a piercing, and the scar just kept growing? That’s called a keloid. Keloids are raised scars that happen when your body goes overboard while healing a wound. They are linked to your genetics, often affect people with darker skin tones, and can be very itchy or painful. Because they can make people feel self-conscious and even cause anxiety, preventing them is the best strategy.

If you are prone to keloids, doctors recommend avoiding tattoos, piercings, and unnecessary cosmetic surgeries. If you do get a cut, keep it moist, use over-the-counter silicone gel sheets, and never dry it out with hydrogen peroxide. If a keloid does form, home remedies like honey, crushed aspirin paste, or garlic ointment might help reduce the swelling. However, you will likely need a doctor's help to really get rid of it. Dermatologists can use stronger medical treatments like freezing the scar (cryotherapy), laser therapy, steroid shots, or even surgery to shrink the scar down.

For more details, see verywellhealth at verywellhealth.com/how-to-get-rid-of-keloids-7368224 (opens in new tab)