A hypertrophic scar and a keloid scar are both forms of abnormal scarring that can occur after skin injury. Although they share some similarities, there are also differences between the two.
Hypertrophic scar:
- A hypertrophic scar is a raised and thickened scar that remains within the boundaries of the original wound area.
- It occurs as a result of excessive collagen production during the healing process.
- Hypertrophic scars may be red, thick and raised, and may cause itching or pain.
- They often occur in places where there is a lot of tension on the scar tissue, such as on the chest, shoulders, ears or joints.
Keloid scar:
- A keloid scar extends beyond the boundaries of the original wound area and extends into surrounding healthy tissue.
- It is characterized by abnormal growth of collagen fibers.
- Keloid scars are thickened, raised, shiny and may itch or hurt.
- They can occur on any part of the body, but are more common on the chest, shoulders, back of the head and earlobes.
Treatment of hypertrophic and keloid scars includes several options, such as:
- Conservative treatment:
- The use of pressure bandages, silicone bandages or gel can help reduce scarring.
- Massage therapy can help improve blood flow and soften scar tissue.
- Avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen can help reduce scar discoloration.
- Corticosteroid injections:
- Corticosteroids are injected into the scar tissue to reduce inflammation and flatten the scar.
- This treatment can help reduce itching, pain and thickening of the scar.
- Surgical treatment:
- Surgery may be considered for keloid scars that do not respond well to other treatments.
- The surgeon can remove the keloid scar and close the wound using techniques such as skin grafting or skin flap.
- Other treatments:
- Other options, such as laser therapy, cryotherapy (cold temperature treatment), pressure therapy with silicone patches and radiation therapy, may be considered depending on the individual situation.
- Laser therapy:
- Different types of lasers, such as the pulsed-dye laser and the fractional laser, can be used to treat hypertrophic and keloid scars.
- Laser therapy focuses on reducing blood flow to the scar tissue, which can reduce thickening and redness.
- Cryotherapy:
- Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy scar tissue.
- The freezing can cause the scar tissue to die, resulting in smoother skin.
- Pressure therapy with silicone plasters:
- Wearing silicone patches on the scar can help reduce scarring.
- The constant pressure and hydration of the patch can soften and flatten the scar tissue.
- Radiation therapy:
- Radiation therapy may be considered in cases where hypertrophic or keloid scars continue to grow despite other treatments.
- The goal of radiation therapy is to reduce the production of collagen in the scar tissue.
It is important to note that treatment for hypertrophic and keloid scars can be complex, and the most effective treatment may vary depending on the individual situation. A qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon can make the correct diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment options based on the specific characteristics of the scar.
