A keloid is an overgrowth of scar tissue that develops after skin injury such as cuts, burns, acne, surgery, or even minor skin trauma like piercing. It forms when the body produces excess collagen during the healing process, causing a raised, thick, and often shiny scar that extends beyond the original wound area.
Keloids can appear pink, red, brown, or darker than surrounding skin and may continue to grow slowly over time. They are most common on the chest, shoulders, ears, upper back, and jawline. Some keloids may cause itching, tenderness, or discomfort, although they are not harmful or cancerous.
Treatment options include steroid injections, silicone gel sheets, laser therapy, cryotherapy (freezing), and surgical removal in selected cases. However, keloids can sometimes recur after treatment, so long-term management is often needed.