Q: Why is keloid itchy?
A: Keloids are abnormal scarring due to overgrowth of dense fibrous tissue. The excessive stretching of the skin can cause itching, and because of their larger size, keloids are prone to rubbing on clothing, causing irritation.
Sensations of itch is common in keloids and was found in 86% of patients with keloid. Applying ointments to keep the skin moist can reduce the itchiness.
Keloids can be itchy, painful or both while they are growing. Keloids on the chest are often tender. Once a keloid stops growing, symptoms usually stop but it tends to become darker than the person’s skin. The border is usually darker than the center.
Keloids are most likely to develop on the following areas of the body:
-Ears
-Neck
-Shoulders
-Chest
-Back
Treatment options for keloids are silicon gel or sheets, steroid injections, laser treatment and surgical scar removal.
