When you suffer a wound—whether from an injury, burn, or surgery—the body goes through a healing process, which results in the formation of a scar. In some cases, the scar may be raised, leading to hypertrophic scars or keloids. Although these scars may appear similar, they are distinct conditions. Let’s explore the key differences.

Difference Between Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars

After a wound heals, it’s common for scars to form, some of which may become raised. These protruding scars are known as hypertrophic scars or keloids. Both are caused by an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, but the key difference lies in their growth: hypertrophic scars stay within the wound area, while keloids extend beyond it.

Here’s how they differ:

Keloids

Keloids are thick, raised scars that can develop anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the chest, shoulders, cheeks, or earlobes. Those with a predisposition to keloids may experience them in multiple areas.

Keloids can form as a result of various injuries, both minor and major, including:

• Acne
• Burns
• Chickenpox scars
• Ear piercings
• Surgical wounds
• Vaccination scars

Signs and characteristics of keloids include:

• Flesh-colored or reddish-purple scars
• Growth that begins a few months or even years after the injury
• Soft lumps that can become more prominent over time
• Expansion beyond the original wound site
• No impact on joint movement
• Potential risk of developing into cancer (though rare)
• Will not resolve on their own
• More challenging to treat

Hypertrophic scars

While hypertrophic scars resemble keloids at first glance, they differ in that the raised tissue does not extend beyond the original wound area. Key characteristics that set hypertrophic scars apart from keloids include:

• They begin forming within 1-2 months after the injury and may continue to grow over the next few months.
• Over time, they may shrink after about a year.
• Typically pink in color.
• Can restrict joint movement due to scar tissue tightening around healthy tissue.
• More common and can affect anyone.
• Can form anywhere on the body, often where the wound was infected.
• No associated cancer risk.
• May shrink on their own without needing medical treatment.

How To Remove Hypertrophic Scars and Keloid

Though hypertrophic scars and keloid are not dangerous, they can affect appearance and cause self-consciousness. If keloids are causing distress, there are various treatments that may help:

• Applying creams, lotions, gels, or oils to the scar site
• Using silicone sheets over the scar for several months

For more severe cases of keloids or hypertrophic scars, doctors may recommend:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Surgical removal
• Cryotherapy
• Laser therapy
• X-ray treatments

While hypertrophic scars and keloids can seem similar, they have important differences. If you're concerned about scars on your skin, it’s best to consult a doctor for advice. You can also take advantage of the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available on both the App Store and Play Store.

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