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- What are keloids?
- Why are keloids so difficult to treat?
- Commercial treatments that may work
- Home remedies that may work
- More about iodine and how it can help
- How the home remedies help keloids… by treating the infection underneath
List of selected comments and questions/answers
- When a keloid might not be a keloid
- Keloids that spread / recurring infections
- Surgery-related scarring and internal keloids
- Can tattoos lead to keloids?
- Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can lead to irritation
- Special precautions when using garlic
- Keloid formation is linked to iodine deficiency in diet
- Iodine — applying it topically on keloids and ingesting it
- Why are most home remedies not sold commercially by pharmaceutical companies?
- Itching and pain associated with keloids
- How to remove remaining scar tissue after successful keloid treatment
Other keloid remedies and assorted advice/observations
– Cutting off blood circulation to the keloid by tying it off with a string or rubber band
– Contractubex gel
– Healthier diet (more fruits and vegetables)
– Foods that affect keloids
– Silicea
– Kenalog injections and silicone gel sheets
– Castor oil
– Tea tree oil
– Silver nitrate
– Tips for preventing keloids in the first place
– Tip for those considering surgery to remove their keloidsPoll (closed) — which keloid treatment method has worked best for you?
What are keloids?
Keloid formation is a topic that desperately requires more medical research and attention. Keloids are scars that have continued to grow past the size of the original wound. Some keloids occur on parts of the body that restrict movement. Some cause pain and itching.
They can afflict people of all races, but tend to occur most frequently across races with darker skin tones like Asians, Hispanics, Italians, and Blacks. The Japanese tend to not have keloid scarring, probably as keloids are linked to iodine deficiency and the traditional Japanese diet is rich in iodine (seaweed). Keloids may also be hereditary.
Why are keloids so difficult to treat?
Often, keloids grow larger with further injury. Treatments like surgical excisions and lasers can cause keloids to grow even larger.
Keloid treatment is also tricky because results tend to vary across treatments. Treatments like corticosteroid injections have worked well for some people, but made some cases worse, and others to work initially, then rebound.
Some traditional chinese medicine (TCM) have also worked well for some, but not all.
Newly-formed keloids also respond better to treatments than old ones.
Because of these, I can’t recommend anything as being the “definitive treatment”. Instead, I have compiled a list of treatments that have been known to produce results for some. Thus, a combination of treatments may be the best answer.
If you have had success in treating your keloid, please help others with this quick poll on which method worked best for you.
Commercial treatments that may work
- Silicone dressing
- Steroid injections
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Hei Ba Gao paste (TCM/traditional Chinese medicine)
- Tea tree oil
A lot has already been written online about the above commercial treatments, so I won’t go into further detail here.
Home remedies that may work
- Make a paste by mixing one part baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and one part 3% hydrogen peroxide. Apply directly on keloid, and reapply as necessary.
- Apply apple cider vinegar (ACV) on the keloid and let dry. Re-apply every half hour and do this for at least several hours. If ACV is too irritating, you can safely dilute it with water. (Rebecca kindly shared her method of applying ACV here and described her progress here. Her keloid is 2 years old and on her chest. )
- Make a thick paste by crushing aspirin and mixing it with water. Apply directly on keloid, and reapply as necessary. (Sarah shared her method here, “First crush about 3 aspirin tablets into a powder. Then add only a few drops of water, until the mixture becomes a paste.Apply it on the keloid with a Q-tip and let the mixture dry (about 15-20 minutes) and then wash it off rubbing gently with water. This can be repeated once everyday until the keloid goes away. I only did this twice along with the tea tree oil and it worked. Also, for anyone who just got a piercing, I would highly recommend H2Ocean antiseptic.”
- Garlic oil or crushed garlic (use with utmost caution and wash off should you feel too much burning!)
- Potassium Iodide/Iodine is another simple remedy that may work well on keloids. Apply it over the keloid several times a day until you see some flattening. Look for SSKI (Saturated Solution Potassium Iodide) at health food stores and pharmacies. If you cannot obtain SSKI or have difficulty doing so, a weaker substitute can be found in Lugol’s Solution. Lugol’s Solution is a simple mixture of potassium iodide, iodine, and water and can be bought at most aquarium/pet fish stores.
More about iodine
Painting iodine over keloids & iodine supplementation to prevent keloids
There are also claims that topical iodine application (usually used as an antiseptic on cuts and wounds) can minimize scar formation. Iodine has the ability to trigger natural cell death (or apoptosis). Thus, repeat applications of iodine on a lesion causes it to be replaced by new skin.
For more about this, I recommend reading Dr. David Derry’s article. In it, he says, “From my own clinical experience, repeated application of iodine to the skin appears to cause regeneration of the skin from the bottom up (stem cell) — eventually sloughing the old version of the skin off like a snake molting. If there was a pre-cancerous lesion on the old skin, it is replaced with new skin minus the lesion. There does not seem to be any skin lesions which are not helped or cured by this procedure.”
Here is a case study of a housewife (opens a pdf) who was treated with Iodex (an iodine salve). She had an 8cm-long scar which restricted the movement of her toe. After 6 months of using Iodex, she regained a normal range of motion.
As keloid formation is linked to iodine deficiency, ingesting an iodine supplement (e.g. Iodoral) may also help reduce keloid scars from the inside out or prevent them from occuring in the first place. However, if you want to supplement with iodine, I give you this friendly warning: prepare yourself sufficiently first by reading about iodine supplementation and bromism. This is because iodine supplements such as Iodoral will cause some very undesirable detox symptoms including acne and body aches.
Iodine supplementation displaces poisons from your cells such as bromide and heavy metals, leading to a heavy load on your kidneys and liver. Therefore, tread lightly and read up for your own health before starting. Here is an excellent place to start: Iodine and Orthoiodosupplementation
How home remedies help keloids: by treating the infection underneath
The home remedies above are based on the belief that keloids form because there was an infection (viral, bacterial or fungal) left behind when the wound was first created.
Because the infection remained, the body creates excess scar tissue in response to the irritant. This effectively “encases” the problem infection by blocking it off from the rest of the body.
With the thickened scar tissue in place, blood circulation in the keloid becomes much more hindered. This makes it even harder for the body to slowly dissolve the scar on its own – so the keloid remains indefinitely.
And since the root of the infection remains buried underneath, the keloid remains volatile and will continue to produce more tissue should it encounter further damage or injury along the way.
Thus, treating the infection is the crux of the matter when it comes to the home remedy methods.
To jumpstart the breaking down of your keloids, consider fasting. Fasting has numerous health benefits, and can help reduce keloids because without food, your body will scavenge for dead and diseased cells, burning them up for energy. These includes excess collagen and abnormal cells in keloids and hypertrophic scars. Larisa kindly shared about how fasting helped reduce one of her newer keloid scars here (thanks Larisa!).
______________
List of Selected Comments and Questions/Answers
Over time, this page has gotten a long list of comments. Some of these comments had valuable information in them, but I feared that they might be overlooked by most visitors. So I decided to create this list of more significant comments by topic.
- I update this list periodically as more comments come in.
- This section includes extracts of the selected comments for easy reading.
- Thank You to all the commenters for sharing!
1. When a keloid might not be a keloid
- Piercing-related bump
Many people have reported that they developed bumps shortly after getting piercings. Most of the time, these are not keloids but are simply infected bumps. If the bump resembles a blister, is soft to the touch and appear to contain some liquid, then it’s probably not a keloid. These piercing-related bumps can still be treated with the remedies though, and several have reported good results using ACV and sea salt soaks.
Chris said, “I just got a double eye brow piercing 2 months ago, within the last 2 days i noticed something that might be a keloid. He also said it “seems to be fairly soft to the touch, it has a bit of give when pressed lightly, it seems possible that it does contain fluids.”
Karen said, “It has been about a month that I’ve have a keloid on my tragus from a piercing I believe I did not clean well. Another keloid started to grow on the other side of the original keloid, so it was in my ear. Two days ago, the inside keloid “popped” blood…”.
Within a week Karen reported back to say that her bump had shrunk after her sea salt soaks, “My bump shrunk to half its size with the soaking! However, the bump on the inside of my ear is slowly growing back.”
Paulina commented with, “I just got my tongue re-pierced about 5 days ago and i have a small bump next to my piercing. i went back to the place where i got it done and they said it could be a keloid”
Mel said, “I’ve had my ear pierced for over 8 years now. I have a keloid on my right ear which is quite large. I am going to see a plastic surgeon next month to have it removed. That keloid developed soon after I first got the piercing. I have not worn an earing in either ear in close to 7 years. However I’ve noticed yesterday that the other ear, which has been fine all these years, has a small bump that is a bit painful. I am terrified that a keliod might be forming there as well.” She later reported that ACV successfully removed the growing bump on her other ear.
sam said, “i had piercing 4 yrs. ago, then my ear got infected because the piercing created a wound when i was about to put my earrings in, then after that i didn’t wore my earrings anymore but after a few weeks a bump in the back of my ear started to grow then after a few months it became larger and larger and and up to this time its about 6x the size of what wasst back then, is the bump in the back of my ear a keloid or something else”
Kirsty said, “I had my nose pierced approx 5 weeks ago and it has healed pretty well up until the last week or so where now it has raised skin up around half of the edge of the stud and bleeds a little now and then when I clean it. Its seems soft to the touch and similarly resembles that of a blood blister.” She later gave an update to say that it was an infected bump and not a keloid and that she successfully treated it with Betadine (Betadine is an over-the-counter iodine-based antiseptic). She said, “Every night since then I have applied it and it scabbed bit by bit and the lump has completely healed up apart from some slight redness which I put down to it being a fairly new piercing still. I now believe it was a small infection and Betadine is developed to heal that type of thing.”
- Hypertrophic/raised scars
Faye said “I have a scar that formed on my nostril after a scratch and the scar itself wont heal. It’s not a scab that forms, but it seems like overgrowth of flesh colored skin that can be picked off like a scab. On the occasions that it is picked off, there’s a small area that looks like an unhealed cut. The skin under the “scab” forms a small bump and it’s the same color as the rest of the skin.”
2. Keloids that spread / recurring infections
Marie first shared about her keloids that would get better then “return with a vengence”. Her steroid injections were not helpful and antibiotics didn’t work. Marie later kindly commented again to report that her recurring infections has stopped after using ACV twice a day. The keloid remains but there has been a “slight flattening” to it. It is also less red and itchy.
Marie reported back her results after using the ACV method for about 6-7 months. The keloids on her chest are now lighter in colour and the recurring infections have ceased. Althought her keloids are not getting smaller, they are also not getting bigger. She also advised other users of the ACV method not to rub in the ACV but just pat it on and around the keloid.
She later came back with her long-term results and experience from using ACV, in that ACV has stopped working as her keloid has grown immune to it.
Marie wrote, “ACV helps during the initial weeks but the keloid has since turned immune to ACV. Every now and then the keloid on my chest ooze pus and it can get extremely painful. Seen G.P. and was given antibiotic on many occasions. I have also developed an immunity to antibiotics. Eventually I was referred to consult a skin specialist at the renowned National Skin Centre.
The Specialist told me there are two sinus tracks that where the pus is oozing from. Two cultures were taken with no bacteria found. The last option is to laser the keloid and try and clean out the tracks and hopefully keloid would grow and cover the tracks.
So with no other option, I went through a very painful laser procedure just yesterday. The laser itself was alright, its the first 3 injections and pressing the keloid to rid the sec of pus that really hurts. I will probably have to go for follow-up kenacort injections in the coming months which I dread. The Prof. who did the laser said he is not sure if this will help. So I can only look towards God for a miracle.”
Laura wrote, “I have had keloids on my chest for several decades. Originally they were both sebaceous cysts that were removed by a dermatologist, that had become keloids. Following that I had them reincised by a plastic surgeon, which only served to create two larger keloids. They tried giving me an androgen block creme, and later, cortisone injections (in the chest which I do NOT recommend); it was EXTREMELY painful!
Eventually, one of them flattened out a bit, but the hole of the injection site is still visible. I can’t say that It really helped, and now I will not do anything that is not a natural treatment. Over the years, I can say that I have had the redness of these scars seem to have MIGRATED across my chest/breast area. One previously whole scar, had now split into two smaller, red scars, with “normal” skin in between. It is very strange. As the scar tissue is quite dense, I try to massage the scars, though it is uncomfortable, but am hoping to help break up the dense tissue.
I should say that originally these mostly came about from “picking”. Though some of the migrated ones just came up out of what appears to be nowhere.”
3. Surgery-related scarring and internal keloids
Merlin developed internal keloids from surgery to remove uterine fibroids. She writes, “I did surgery to remove fibroids and a year after my surgery, I started to develop this swelling which became very painful especially during my menstrual cycle. Over the past years, it has become very hard and it’s only on one side of the cut that I have it.”
Amy’s keloids came from a mastoidectomy, or surgery behind the ear. She said “I have a round “growth” or “swelling” behind my earlobe – in the part that connects the head to the ear. It is soft, not hard like a sebaceous cyst (which I suffer from on other parts of my body). This feels like a water blister at first touch, but if you press more is a bit harder than softer. I am diabetic.
1) My derm said it was a cyst.
2) My ENT said it was a “skin infection”. He said there was nothing to drain. Put me on antibiotics 2x a day 300 mg. ”
Ruth developed keloids accompanied with pain following several knee surgeries. She said “I have had several operations on my knee (years ago) and as a result I had developed a lot of scar tissue (keloids?) in there. I also have Chondromalacia. I have had pain in my knee since the operations.”
Joanna had keloids following a skin graft. Her keloids formed both on the donor site (her calf) and the recipient site (her thigh). She said “I had a skin graft done about six months ago on my calf and the donor skin was from the side of my thigh. Now I have Keloids on both of the wounds and the donor skin on the side of my thigh is 3×4 inches big and it is all Keloids. Before I had problems with the donor side I used Mederma and a had a bad reaction to it. So, afterwords my doner side was very itchy, red and had a bumpy texture.”
Mark’s keloids formed internally following spinal fusion surgery and are threatening to choke his nerve root sheaths. He said “Four months ago, I had Spinal Fusion Surgery. Now I am told that there is Keloid Scarring building up inside my back. Eventually it will choke off the nerve root sheaths. An MRI shows that the scar tissue is already to dense to differentiate between the scar or nerve tissue. Subsequently… no surgery possible.”
If anyone has any information that can help Mark, pls share it with us through the comments.
Wayne developed keloids following an otoplasty, or surgery to pin back the ears. He writes, “I had me ears pinned back when I was 11 (28 now) and have had about 8 ops to remove the keloids surgically, they reform every time and continue growing…”
4. Can tattoos lead to keloids?
Merlin asked, “could Keloids develop with Tattoos, as I am contemplating of getting one done.”
My answer: Yes, tattoos can cause keloids if you’re prone to getting them. If you do decide to get a tattoo, be sure to take extra precautions to avoid infection during the critical healing period. Keloid formation is also tied to iodine deficiency, so it’s a good idea to take iodine supplements prior to getting the tattoo and for some time after.
Alek mentioned his own experience post-tattoo, “i have got something like keloid after having my tattoo done, the flowers with red ink got swollen, n kinda hard, ,black ink doesn’t, its been like this for 3 months, please tell me what should i do?”
If anyone has experience with tattoo scarring and healing, please share any insights you have.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar can lead to irritation
(solution: dilute the ACV with water)
Apple Cider Vinegar applied on the skin can sting and lead to redness as it is quite acidic. To minimize any discomfort and the risk of further injury, it might be necessary to dilute your ACV with some water and/or reducing the number of daily applications. Sometimes a break may also be necessary to give the skin time to rest and heal.
Ian writes, “I tried using ACV and following your advise to another person applied it overnight to the affected area soaked into cotton wool. Unfortunately this resulted in a slight “burning” of the surrounding skin, leaving it very inflamed and dry.”
filly wrote “i have tried both apple cider vinegar and baking soda/hydrogen peroxide and it has some effect on my keloid. I found that after using acv it started to dry out my keloid, but also got my keloid very irritated to the point that it has grew a bit bigger. the acv is very harsh on the skin and it gives u a stinging sensation.”
filly’s 2nd comment: “after 3 days of ACV application on my keloid i can see something happening i have noticed that the color of my keloid has changed from darker red to lighter red and also it has gone softer. now im hoping that it will flatten my keloid after a month. i got to admit that it actually burns and sting when you use ACV. my theory is that when you use ACV its actually burning or cooking the keloid. its like applying a vinegar to a raw meat it will eventually will cook the meat.”
Amir used ACV pretty aggressively. He wrote, “I have been reapplying the ACV on the keyloid around 5-6 times per day, After the 1st day, every time I reapply the ACV, the keyloid stings for a while and gets kind of an intense sting at times, although I am bearing it. Occasionally, the keyloid bleeds as soon as I apply ACV on it. Also, the keyloid sometimes has some clear liquid forming on it. I just wipe it off and reapply the ACV again. I’ve noticed that some scabs have formed on the keyloid. I think it has flattened some, and narrowed as well, although it is hard to tell. It does appear to be breaking down however, as some parts of the keyloid are scabbed and some skin has “burned” off as the keyloid isn’t smooth anymore. Some places on the keyloid, it seems like more skin has “burned” off. Another thing is that the keyloid is more sensitive to pain. It slightly hurts when I touch the keyloid. And putting normal t-shirts on irritates the keyloid as the shirt is rubbing on it. It itches more often, and is more volatile, by giving those sudden twinging pains that those who have keyloids KNOW what I’m talking about. I just hope and pray that this ACV is working, because I do perceive the keyloid to be shrinking.”
Sharon Brown wrote, “I saw the comments about the apple cider vinegar and decided to try it. At first the keloid on my ear began to look so irritated, I almost stopped. I was putting a soaked cotton ball on it and used a band aid to hold it in place. The vinegar actually is dissolving the keloid, within one week my keloid is half the size it used to be.”
Chris wrote “I decided to try the ACV method (also drinking 2 tablespoons a day). I use a q-tip and just run it along my keloids on my jaw. It stings for a little while, but it’s not unbearable. I do this about 10 times a day. The keloids seem to have dried out, but they’ve also become very red”
Felix wrote, “I place a cotton ball with ACV behind my ear on the keloid and tape it in place. What I have noticed (I have been doing this for only a day) is that this seems to only make the keloid worse (maybe my imagination but I cannot be sure I’m already self-conscious enough about this).” Felix also talks about how his keloid tends to act up in winter. One year later, Felix kindly came back to share his update here where he also gave more details about the effect of the weather/changing temperature has on his keloid.
Amanda gave a detailed account of using ACV over 5 weeks. So far, her 7-year old keloid has shrunk and flattened. She also gives some tips and advice.
She wrote:
Hi everyone,
I have to say thankyou to Sam, and the contributing members. I am a keloid sufferer myself, my case isn’t as severe though. I just thought I would contribute my story because I promised myself that IF one of the remedies suggested here works on minimizing or leaves no trace of my keloid, I would comment. And, so here I am.
Anyways my keloid is approximately 1.5cm wide, the thickness I would say 0.5cm and is located on my chest. My keloid is 7 years old, had it since I was 15 and now I am 22. In the duration of ‘on and off’ again treatment of ACV (apple cider vinegar – ‘Cornwells premium ACV’ 100% natural) for 2 months, it has shrunk to 1cm in width and has flattened a little out. Here’s my procedure:
1) Rip a cotton ball in half, stretch it out so that it covers your keloid completely. Make sure that the cotton you’ve stretched out isn’t too thick, because in that case the cotton ball WILL be eating up the ACV rather than your keloid!
2) Dip the cotton in ACV, make sure its not drenched. You don’t want it dripping on your skin, but you do want it wet enough. What I do is because my ACV is in a glass bottle and has an opening of 2cm wide, I just place the cotton on the opening and tip the bottle slightly to get the cotton wet enough. (Try to make sure that your cotton has some dry sections so that you can place sticky tape onto your skin properly to hold it in place on the keloid).
3) Place cotton onto keloid, use sticky tape to hold it in place.
4) Once the cotton is dried up (usually close to 1 hr or so), replace the cotton and do the whole procedure again throughout the day, and when it comes to night just leave it on till morning.
*Note: This procedure won’t work for everyone, but of course there is hope that it will. Persistance is the key, so keep trying and do NOT give up. I think this is a better solution than going for surgery or injections because it’s inexpensive and it is of course natural. By the way, these procedures are just an outline, you can do the application however you want to do it, the objective is to have ACV on the keloid.
My first few experiences in about a week of continuous treatment. What I did notice was that my keloid tingled and was looking more pinky-red and had little circular pus like growths underneath the skin. Also my healthy skin was affected by the ACV as well, because I drenched my cotton in ACV and taped it drenched. So that was a lesson to be learnt! And, signs of laziness lol.
Second week, I left the keloid alone because it started to swell, and plus I didn’t want to further damage my healthy skin. What I did do was clean it with water and then WIPED it with ACV and left it alone to aerate.
Third week, I did the whole procedure again, yet it wasn’t as consistent as the first week. Yes I saw improvement, the pus-like undergrowth surfaced had popped itself and left a little hole in the keloid. During the third week, for some reason I started to experiment and poked the keloid with a pin which I doused in ACV prior to doing that. It hurt, but I didn’t care, my mentality was to just get rid of it. The next morning after that, it was swollen and it hurted. But nothing that I couldn’t handle. What I did was just put ice on it to stop the swelling. It went down and after that I left it to recover for 2 days only.
Fourth week, keloid was turning black and was scabbing. I was very excited indeed. On-off application once again. (I get lazy, plus I had exams to study for). During that week, scab fell off and it turned yellowy-white looking, and looked smaller as well.
Fifth week till now, I don’t put it on as frequent as the earlier days, probably 3 times weekly or less. Progress of keloid continues to improve with each week. I will update you guys if you want, but everything seems to be going to plan. Outcome: keloid = dead. lol
In conclusion, I would say do give it a try. And, you know DON’T put ACV on when you’re going out, because you do smell funny. My sister said the ACV made me smell like BAD FEET ODOUR LOL. Which I thought to myself, “yeah right”. I thought I smelt like salt and vinegar chips instead… apparently not as my mum thought the same thing as my sister! But yeah weekend and night time application is good enough to keep continually killing the keloid. Be patient, and take note of what you see and feel, because you are the one who can determine whether it is working for you or not. So you know, common sense says if your keloid is swelling up or inflamed, give it a break from ACV. And, when you do go out, well since mine is on my chest I first wipe it down with ACV, then put a bandaid on it. When I come home, I shower then re-apply as normal again.
Anyways I hope this helps all you lot out, my voice is just to confirm the suggested application on this site has contributed to the ‘downsizing’ of my keloid. =)Amanda later followed up with another update and a recommendation for a balm called Agnijith:
Hey guys! I’m back again. I stopped using ACV, as I ran out of it. As I stopped it grew back again. Filling up the holes the ACV made, its still the same size as it was without the ACV, thank goodness. Although I would have preferred if it just disappeared altogether. Anyways, I’ve found something that is a reasonable price it is from India. I happened to stumble across this website.
It’s a balm called AGNIJITH. It treats burns, keloids etc. Heres the website http://www.padanjaly.com/medicine.htm. I do believe in this product, as I have this little protruding scar from an insect bite and I just applied Agnijith balm for the heck of it for one day. And…surprisingly next morning, its noticeably flatter. So guys this is a natural remedy, and I recommend you do check out the website, it sounds very promising. It cost me 76.38 Australian dollars, it is priced at $75 US for 90 Gms, which I believe is quite reasonable. Check out the testimonials, read the articles etc.
I know all of you guys were hopeful regarding ACV, it did help, but its quite impractical for me to walk around stinking like foot odour all day long lol. But, guys I know how you are all feeling, and it is disappointing to find out it didnt really work, but then again, who knows ACV may work for you as it has for others.
All the best to everyone, and I’ll inform you guys on my Agnijith balm progress on my keloid. BTW I am not advertising their products, I am just helping you guys seek other alternatives. I will get back to you guys within a months time, or even sooner than that!
Deb wrote “…I bought some Apple Cider Vinegar and applied it on my scar at night, reapplying with a cotton bud once dry. I would also dab a bit of cotton wool with ACV and tape it to my scar over night. Some nights I would hold off taping the cotton wool with Apple Cider Vinegar to my arm as it would sometime irritate and sting but I knew the irritation was from the scar being broken down so kept at it. Eventually the ACV broke down the my whole scar, amazingly it never destroyed the healthy skin. This took about 3-4 weeks for the Apple Cider Vinegar to break down the keloid, I now have flat pinky skin surrounded by healthy skin so I have stopped using the Apple Cider Vinegar and I am now using natural oils to promote healthy skin to grow…It took about 4/5 days to notice that the ACV was working. At times it did feel like it was getting worse as the scar would swell and start to pus in different places on the scar but this would eventually scab and fade after bathing…For now I would say that ACV was a God send and I just can’t believe I never knew about this earlier in my life. “
6. Take special care when using garlic on skin
Terri asked, “What do you mean by using caution on pressed garlic or garlic oil? Is some burning ok?”
My advice about using garlic as a home remedy was: “Raw garlic on the skin can be extremely harsh and needs to be monitored carefully. Some mild stinging localized on the keloid is okay and can be expected, but overuse easily injures the surrounding skin and the keloid itself (can lead to bleeding if left on too long, its that powerful).
If you do use garlic, protect the healthy skin around the keloid with a layer of Vaseline or other skin oil. It’s also best to take it very slow in the beginning so you’re able to understand its strength and effects first.”
7. Keloid formation is linked to iodine deficiency in diet
Terri was fearful of developing keloids following cataract surgery and wanted to know what she could do to minimize the chances of getting one as she is prone to getting them.
My advice to her was, “If you find that you’re prone to getting keloids, your body might be lacking in the mineral iodine. You can check with a very simple patch test – paint a circle of brown iodine over an area of your skin, like your inner arm or stomach. If the color disappears in less than 24 hours (i.e. your skin sucks it up), you’re iodine deficient.
Thus, its a good idea to get your iodine levels to a healthy point again prior to any surgery (or any type of skin injury for that matter) to prevent new keloids from forming. One way to do this is by painting your skin with iodine each day until you find that the color stays on the skin for 24 hours and longer.”
8. Applying iodine on a keloid and ingesting iodine
Scott kindly shared his initial experience in using iodine topically and through a supplement. After 1-2 months, his results are very encouraging. He wrote the following:
“Iodine Seems to be Working! Hey everyone, I’ve read every bit of information on this site up and down. I’ve had a keloid scar on my chest for over 2 years, which came from acne (I believe). It started out as a very small bump, but has grown to a nickel sized red lump. It has really driven me crazy, I’m pretty self conscious about it. I promised myself if I ever found something that seemed to be working, I’d post about it here!
I’ve had it injected several times, but It never seemed to do much. I’ve also tried scarguard silicone gel, with little results.
I read about using Iodine, as potassium iodide, and thought I’d give it a try. I purchased a product called Liqui-Dulse. It’s a liquid iodine supplement you’re supposed ingest it by putting it in a glass of water, but I apply it straight to the Keloid topically. It’s key ingredients are Glycerin, Water, Dulse Palmaria Palmala and Potassium Iodide.
I put a few droplets on the keloid, then massage it in for several minutes. Then I put a few more drops on, cover it with a band-aid then go about my day like normal. Two or three times a day, or whenever I think about it, I pull the band-aid back, apply 3-4 more drops, then re-apply the band-aid.
After the past month or so of doing this, for the first time ever I see a difference in my Keloid!
The edges are softening, and diameter is shrinking. The redness is calming down. And one particular section of the Keloid (which gives me the most hope) has almost totally flattened AND new healthy skin appears to have grown over it! This healthy skin patch started out small, but has grown and covered about a 5th of the keloid. It grew to this size in about 2 weeks. The healthy skin seems to be continuing to grow.
Just thought I’d share this!
Also, for about 2 months I’ve been taking a multivitamin that contains 100% daily value of iodine and Vitamin E capsules. It’s hard to say which treatment is helping more… but I can say that the “healthy skin patch” never started growing until I applied the Liqui-Dulse.”
9. Why most home remedies are not sold commercially by pharmaceutical companies
Nowayz‘s question was “does ACV truly helps? why i surf so many webs but none of professionals said dat can use ACV?”.
My response was, “You won’t find home remedies being promoted by pharmaceutical companies even if they work because these natural ingredients cannot be patented. No patent=No massive profits to be made.”
(Nowayz also later reported success in the drying of his keloid.)
10. Itching and pain commonly associated with keloids (and when first using the remedies)
Emma wrote, “my keloids are in the chest, and they often itch. My keloids are caused by acne and pressed strongly by the nurse to let the thing in the acne out, but she did not succeed.”
Jules wrote, “My case is very similar to Dina’s – my keloid is on my chest, about 1 and a half centimetres wide and the same in length. It’s a dark pink colour, can get very itchy (especially after I drink) and hurts for no reason. I’ve had it since before 2003. I’m in my early 20s and it’s been a nightmare trying to find clothes that will hide it as nearly everything is v-necked and low-cut!”
Jules also kindly reported back later after using ACV, “I’ve been using ACV about 3 or 4 times a day, and it stings a little sometimes but not as badly as I mentioned before. My scar feels different now, it’s a little softer and I’ve noticed it’s flatter in the mornings (though this might also have been the case before i started using ACV). The big change is that the occasional sharp pains and itching have mainly disappeared, which is fantastic.”
11. How to remove remaining scar tissue after successful keloid treatment
Jules first wrote to ask if keloids can ever fully disappear, “…I am really keen to try the ACV after hearing what people have said. I understand that not everything will work for everyone, but I was wondering how much I can expect the scar to die down? Can it ever fully disappear? “
I responded, “If the remedies work you can expect some flattening and an improvement in the color. The itch should also be gone. However, there might remain scar tissue from the original wound, so that it would resemble a regular hypertrophic (raised) scar.
Jules later came back with an update to say that ACV has helped with her keloid’s pain and itching. She wrote, “I’ve been using ACV about 3 or 4 times a day, and it stings a little sometimes but not as badly as I mentioned before. My scar feels different now, it’s a little softer and I’ve noticed it’s flatter in the mornings (though this might also have been the case before i started using ACV). The big change is that the occasional sharp pains and itching have mainly disappeared, which is fantastic. Let’s hope I will see some change in the appearance as well.”
More on reducing scars (updated April 2011):
I had previously recommended using copper peptide creams to reduce (and possibly remove) leftover scar tissue. However, after using castor oil for several months on some very old and tough scars, I have to say that castor oil appears to work just as well at reducing scars (and maybe even better).
Castor oil is also much cheaper than copper peptide products and is all-natural (no chemicals). I’ve actually managed to remove a deep burn scar using castor oil (before-and-after photos).
——————————-
jo asked me about copper peptides and how they can reduce scar tissue, when it is stated that they increase collagen formation. This led me to do some research.
I replied: “Hi jo, that’s actually a very good question. I don’t know the mechanics of it well enough to give you a proper explanation, but I think copper peptides may work to replace the excess collagen (type 1 & 3 collagen) in keloids with the healthy type over time.
I also found this in Roenigk & Roenigk’s dermatologic surgery (By Randall K. Roenigk, Henry H. Roenigk), which you might find interesting:
“Excessive collagen deposition is a hallmark of keloids. Keloid scars are composed of both Type I and Type III collagen… The collagen cross-linking in keloidal scars has been shown to be abnormal. This has been postulated to be due to a decrease in lysyl oxidase activity. This enzyme is copper dependent, and keloids have been shown to be copper deficient.
Additionally keloidal collagen is more acid soluble than normal dermal collagen. The collagen found in keloids is less mature and less stable than that found in normal skin.”
I’m not sure if the “copper deficiency” part means anything or is just a coincidence… but regardless, it seems that not all collagen are alike.
The above is just an extract. If you want to read it in fuller detail, there’s a preview of this page in Google Books, page 612. “
Other keloid remedies recommended by commenters
Cutting off the blood circulation to the keloid by tying it off with a string
Read earloid’s comment that first mentioned this method.
Taquaya commented that she tried tying off her keloid with string for 3 days and the results were so painful that she had to go to the emergency department.
She wrote, “I have not so good news. I always knew the string method was painful, but after 3 days of little sleep and excruciating pain, I had to remove the string to see what changes my skin was undergoing. The keloid is very tender and swollen now. In my eyes it looks worse than before.
To top that of, the skin surrounding the keloid was rubbed RAW. It is so painful that my eyes often fill with tears. I’ve been forced to make an emergency appointment with my doctor. Over the counter pain-killers are doing nothing for the pain. I’ve started stressing and losing my appetite because of the agony and discomfort. Even though I was applying Tea Tree oil and Vitamin E oil to the skin, it still got swollen, inflamed, and possibly infected.
My keloid was bothering me before all this, but it is killing me now. All I wanted was to get this thing off. I hope my doctor gives me something to combat infection and something STRONG to ease the pain.
I was a fool to believe that because some people had success using the string method that I too would be able to endure the pain and trauma to the skin. For those who are considering the string method, don’t do it. It is a long painful process. I just took a bad situation and made it 10x worse.”
Claudius had a more positive experience with this method. He said: “Tying a string around the base of the keloid really does work, it is severely painful but effective. I tie it around the keloid on both of my ears in 2 weeks they fell off, & my earlobes r not hard so nothing is growing back. Once I got the keloid on my left ear remove for $600 and it grow back twice the size, becuz my earlobes was hard after they remove it, so it was still there and then I got it on both ears & they wanted $3000 to remove them, so I tie a string around the keloid and bear with the pain for 2 week. It is worth the pain not $3000 the string cutts into the keloid & it bleeds a little so don’t be scared just try it, it worked 4 me.”
‘hold in there’ warned that while this method was painful, it eventually caused his keloid to dry and fall off.
He said: “I have had a keloid for 6 years. I had surgery to remove it 3 years ago and continued with the cortizone shots-both were painful. It grew back and continued to grow.
I decided to use the string method. Now the string method was not pretty and it did take a month to complete the process. It took longer because to avoid infection, I retied and applied cortizone every night. Yes, sometimes when the string is tied it can be painful, but eventually the keloid started drying and fell off. It has only been a few weeks and I am currently monitoring the progress. I can say that during my last doctor visit he pretty much left me with no other recourse.
P.S. I have tried the ACV method with no results. Will keep you up to date.”
In 2010, Destyni successfully removed a keloid on her right ear after six weeks. One year later, she returned to report her success with removing the remaining keloid on her left ear (scroll down to read all her comments in chronological order).
On 12 May 2010, she commented: “my right keloid is GONE! It took 6 weeks. 3 days ago it turned extremely black and hard and was hanging by a thin layer of “ear meat” i cut it with scissors. I didnt even feel a pinch. 1 keloid down.. 1 to go!!”
On 18 June 2010, she kindly shared some before-and-after pictures of her keloid after using the string method.
“i cant believe its actually gone. there is a rash on my neck from all the dried up blood that accumulated every night while sleep. anyway.”
Destyni’s before-and-after photos:
http://i48.tinypic.com/34i0is0.jpg
http://i47.tinypic.com/fo1ugx.jpg
http://i48.tinypic.com/mj1jk7.jpgThroughout her journey, she gave some helpful progressive updates as well.
11 April 2010
i have a keloid on each of my ears. Very big and ugly.
I am currently on day 6 of the string method. Let me first say IT HURTS LIKE HELL. its very hard to sleep and i get headaches frequently. i have changed the string once. i noticed 2 days ago the keloid is starting to detach itself from my ear. so i cleaned the open area with mild soap and warm water and tied another string which was the worst pain ive yet to experience. I have had these keloids for about 6 years. I am tired of having to wear long hair to cover them. im hoping that by summer, they will be long gone and i can wear my hair in a pony tail. I will keep updating and possibly providing before and AFTER photos.oh and let me add, my keloids are starting to leak and i have minimal bleeding and the leakage has an awful smell. But if this works, it will all be worth it
15 April 2010
Day 10 of stringing my keloids. the one on my right ear is literally hanging by just a few strands, its also turning black. It could fall off at any minute. i want to re-string it but it is so painful and tender. the left one is still loosening but slower than the right. Either way neither of them are really attached to my ear much. The process i say is about 85% complete. i give “tying a string around the keloid” an A. and once they fall off it gets an A+. I am SO happy i found this site.In 2011, Destyni came back to share her success with removing the remaining keloid on her left ear. This time, instead of taking six weeks, the process took only 5 days, which she attributes to her use of a rubber band instead of string.
8 April 2011
Hi guys! Last year i had great success on one of my keloids with the string method. Thank you to the owner of this site for putting my progress on the main page. Hope it helped someone.
I was stringing both of my keloids on each ear at the same time last year, but that pain was just too unbearable on BOTH sides of my head. So i worked with the right keloid and got that off. Havent gotten around to the left one until now. This time i am using the rubberband method and i will say it is ALOT faster than the string. The first day hurt ALOT more with the band vs the string but the rubberband is killing the keloid so much faster. I am currently on day 4 and this lil creature is already almost dead. I will share pictures from beginning to end.
Here are days 1-4
http://i51.tinypic.com/116s5qa.jpg
Get’s a little graphic on day 4.
http://i54.tinypic.com/33d8193.jpg9 April 2011
Here we are.. barely day 5 and I AM KELOID FREE!!!
Its 4:21am. I was just about to clean my keloid and change the rubberband, but as i took the band off i noticed the keloid was just hanging there so i cut the little piece of skin which didnt hurt AT ALL because it was dead. I have photos. Which are VERY graphic i took them immediately after i cut the keloid. I cant believe this thing was on my EAR! yucky. Any questions, id be glad to help.
http://i53.tinypic.com/15gxflj.jpg
http://i55.tinypic.com/34zhpvc.jpgThank you Destyni for sharing so much of your experience. I’m sure it will help many others.
Destyni also has a YouTube channel called “destynihoney”, which chronicles her journey to being keloid-free.
Contractubex gel (from Germany)
khosbhoo used this gel for her burns. She wrote, “initially I applied contratubex gel (from Germany). it has decreased a lot. I mean 90% has gone (this medicine is a miracle) but I had to massage it regularly.”
Healthier diet (more fruits and veggies)
Sarah noticed that her keloids improved following a change in her diet. She wrote, “Over the last few months i have been drinking 3-4 cups of green tea with lemon, pomegranates (read the health benefits in Wikipedia) and increased the amount of fruit and vegetables I usually consume. from all these things I have noticed a big difference in the size of them and some even appear lighter. I do understand everyone is different but you never actually know this could work for you.
Sarah later came back with an update about her progress and also about her diet, “Hey guys its me again…so I’ve been away for a few months, but thought i should just comment on the progress of my situation with keloid scars..as i mentioned previously, green tea with lemon has seemed to work for me. I have recently included the following fruits and vegetables in my diet; tomatoes (plum and cherry in particular), avocado, bell peppers and sweet potatoes…and not only do i feel a lot better but my keloids have definitely minimized in size.”
Thanks for sharing, Sarah! If anyone else has had improvements to their keloids following a change in diet, please do share.
Foods that affect keloids
carolyn wrote, “I noticed that whenever I eat sugary foods, it grows or itches more. I just noticed this the other day and I wanted to see if foods or drinks can affect them or make them worse.”
rizwan wrote how red meat makes his keloids itch more, “I have keloid scars for about 15 years now… only thing i can recommend that try to eat more veg and fruits and don’t eat red meat coz when i eat red meat my keloid scars itches more .”
Jules wrote that her keloid itches more after drinking (alcoholic beverages), “My keloid is on my chest, about 1 and a half centimetres wide and the same in length. It’s a dark pink colour, can get very itchy (especially after I drink) and hurts for no reason.”
Anonymous wrote that white pepper causes his keloids to become very itchy. He also noted that his keloids grows/shrinks with his weight.
Silicea
Irene’s father had a keloid that was infected with pus that wasn’t helped by steroid injections or antibiotics. She wrote how using Silicea helped:
“My father has a long keloid across his chest. For several years, it got infected with lots of pus. Steroid injections and antibiotics didn’t help. I put him on the biochemical tissue salts called Silicea for a few months. This prompted the keloid to discharge pus from several holes for a few weeks which was quite scary. After all this drained out, the problem has not occurred again, and the keloid has flattened out. Hope this will help somebody.”
Kenalog injections and Cica Care silicone gel sheets
Anonymous reported that his keloids “flattened and are less visible” with Kenalog injections and Cica Care gel sheets.
Castor oil
Nancy wrote that castor oil (Wikipedia link) made a difference to her keloid, which formed from a chicken pox scar.
She said, “I have since then tried castor oil after reading up on the web. It seems to have made a difference.”
Castor oil has many amazing healing properties which is perhaps helped by its ability to deeply penetrate skin and tissue. My research into castor oil has revealed many benefits of using castor oil, including its ability to break down scar tissue over time, which may make it helpful for keloids and internal surgical scarring.
You can read more about castor oil in these articles:
- a good introduction on castor oil
- using castor oil for scars
- and from my own experience, I’ve healed a deep burn scar using castor oil (see before-and-after-photos)
Tea tree oil
Anna tried ACV but had better luck using tea tree oil on her keloids, which are a few years old.
She says, “…slowly but surely stuff is happening, it’s peeling off, the keloid cells are dying, and eventually it should fall off…”
Silver nitrate
Iceni wrote that silver nitrate prescribed by a doctor is helping an infection and keloid on his little toe dry up. Iceni wrote, “Apparently this was a common anti- biotic way back to Egyptian times until after the first World War.But it came into disuse with the advent of modern antibiotics. I believe its efficacy is being studied again for use in humans. It is non toxic and apparently bacteria do not become resistant to it. Hope this helps someone.”
Tips for preventing keloids in the first place
Tip #1 – Cover small wounds for a few days
Anonymous advised, “The most important is once when you have any very small wounds, you have to put plastic bandages on it immediately for few days”
Tip #2 – Press down on newly-forming keloids
Rachel said, “I have a few keloids on my shoulder and have started getting a few on my chest, but right when i saw them forming, I applied pressure and pushed down on them and they are gone! It hurt like hell, but nothing on my chest! However, i still have the ones on my shoulders. =/ I really wish they would find a cure or solution that is definite! It is really is embarrassing! So next time you see one starting to come in, press down continually, and it will eventually fade. I had read online a while back that it worked for someone so i tried it and it did! Hope this helps!”
Tip #3 – Keloid formation is linked to iodine deficiency. Read about iodine and how it can help.
Tip for those considering surgery to remove their keloids
Anna kindly shared some advice from her dermatologist for those considering surgery to remove their keloids: if the surgeries are on problem areas that are susceptible to keloid formation, then the surgical incisions should be closed with a laser rather than traditional stitches as these could lead to stretching and further irritation, making post-op keloid formation on the surgical scar more likely.
Poll (closed in June 2013)
Terry suggested that a poll could be helpful in finding out the most effective method to treat keloids. I thought this was a great idea.
hey guys! im back! I have successfully removed keloids from both my ears. in 2010 and 2011. I removed my keloid on my right ear in 2010 using a string, it took 6 weeks and im happy to say IT HAS NOT RETURNED. However the keloid on my left ear which i did with a rubberband that only took 5 days has returned with a vengeance. It is so big and weirdly shaped. I am currently using a rubberband and string to get it off. I could not get a string or rubberband around the whole thing without taking my ear with it. So I tied half the keloid with a rubberband to cut it in half, by day 3, it had split. I am currently on day 6 and it is almost off. I will be making another youtube video with pics marking my journey. Search destynihoney on youtube to see my other videos. Ill be back to update! 🙂
Hi Destyni, thanks for updating. That’s really great that the keloid on your right ear hasn’t returned in the past 3 years 🙂
I wonder if the speed of removal matters, since using the rubberband took only 5 days, but the keloid on your right ear returned. Or could it be something else? Like, do you normally sleep on your right side (ie the right ear gets less circulation/more heat/irritation at night)?
Anyway, good luck with getting it off again 🙂 I’m sure your experience will help many other folks out there.
I have had many cuts and bruises, but I developed keloids at the age of 42. It started out as 3 acme bumps in my chest , the site started to change in color and shape. I went to my physician that’s when I was told I have Keloid skin, I had them removed only to come back. went through chemo and radiation some flattened and I was pain free almost 3 years. oh and yes the injections were to painful and did not help, even the morphine did not stop the pain and the doctor did not understand why I was still in pain. I had a port put in it never gave me that much trouble until they removed the port. and yes it hurts for your clothes to rub against the body. I appreciate all the comments and if someone has anything new please post. This has been 20 years too long.
Hi Bessie, I’m sorry to hear about your pain and troubles. I’ve moved your comment from the ‘Fasting for Better Health and Skin’ page to this one as I thought it was more relevant. Hope that’s okay.
I’ve been using ACV many times, but I use it only once a day. Because I do not have much free time to care for my keloid. Did you succeed, eliminate keloid, with ACV? how many times a day?
I’ve had more than 1 month, but no changes to, my keloid.
and many say, that there is pain, like in hell, when ACV treatment. but, not with me, why I do not feel it? This is, of cause, I use ACV once a day? different with you, which uses ACV more than 10 times?
please answer the question, which is simple from me. if you guys are right, eliminating keloid, with ACV, and the result is lost.
please note. I need your help.
I used burn gel and it does work to shrink the keloids and you can use Pocelana to lighten the keloids even more. When you massage the area I pressed and massages thoroughly and the keloids are almost gone. I had breast reduction surgery and my thin surgery scars ended up thick painful keloids. I used silicone strips(which aren’t cheap), scar strips, scar cream, and Bio oil. The Dr said you have to massage everyday several times a day. But it was really doing much but causing pain. So I said to myself it looks bruised or healed burns so why not try burn cream. I purchased scar zone burn gel and trust me it works! I used Porcelana in the past it’s not as great as the old version but the new one works good enough.
Hi, I have a 3 year old keloid as a result of an allergy to red tattoo ink. ACV did not work for me, actually made it worse. Against my doctors advise I opted for cortizone injections. I also started using silicon patches. Within a week of the injections and using the patches I had huge results. I have just gone for my 2nd lot of injections and the doctor was shocked with the results, there was an 80% improvement – im not sure if it was the injections or the patches or the combination but its working! After my second lot the improvements have slowed down but still looks better each day. Im am confident that after the 3rd injection the scar will be completely flat! I am having the injections at 6 week intervals and wearing the silicon patch 24hrs a day, only removing when showering.
Thanks for sharing Tania. I’m glad they’re working for you 🙂
where do you go to get the injections and the silicone patches
please stay away from injections maxie get information on the herb called horsetail pills or drops but do your home work
Hey, I’ve trying the ACV experiment for 3 days. I have a one-year old hypertrophic scar on my chest that I’ve been trying to flatten. I’m glad to say that I finally got a reaction from dipping a cotton ball in ACV and holding it down with a bandaid while I slept. This morn I woke up to what looks like to be the beginnings of a scab and minor bruising surrounding the scar. In a moment I will shower, exfoliate, and then mosturize. Maybe this will work out in my favor.
Hi jude, that sounds promising, how is the experiment going so far?
It’s been 9 days since my last post, and the top layer of my hypertrophic scar is still gone. I probably exfoliated too much because a new scab isn’t forming. I decided that I should leave it alone for a while because the open wound is a little unsettling for me. For now, I keep it covered with neosporin and a band-aid. I have Scar Away silicone patches for when it closes. In addition, the bruised area surrounding my hypertrophic scar caused by the ACV irritation has given way to a new problem… that area of my skin began to scab.
So, if you decide to do this experiment, please take care to not allow the ACV to touch your healthy skin. It pretty much ate up my healthy skin 🙁 In addition, I am fixing that problem by taking 1000 mg of Vitamin C, drinking tons of water, keeping it moisturized with Neosporin, and keeping it covered with a band aid to eliminate contact with my clothing.
Perhaps I was a little to impatient with this hypertrophic scar on my chest. I had one on my shoulder blade for 4 years, and I used silicone sheets as well as the pressure from my bra strap for the longest. Over the years, I applied merderma, tea tree oil, and recently ACV (not left on overnight but just a dab each night). I looked in the mirror recently to realize that it is flat! Not only is it flat, but it blends better with the rest of my skin. I was stunned. Maybe I should have been patient with this one too, but I had to try the ACV.
I will update you on the progress of my hypertrophic scar and my secondary wound in about a week or two.
Thanks for your update Jude. And good luck with healing your skin — I’m sure taking Vitamin C will help a lot.
I know it hasn’t been a week but I am already pleased with the way my healing is going. The hypertrophic scar on my chest isn’t completely flat but it is flatter and smaller. In addition, the secondary wound from the ACV burn is healing well; I’ve noticed pigmentation returning. SInce the hypertrophic wound is closed, I’ve been applying silicone sheets to it. Furthermore, I’ve been reading about how fresh ginger roots can help with re-pigmentation. I’ll keep updating!
Oh that’s great about your pigmentation returning — that could mean the burn wasn’t as deep you thought.
hi.. may i know what is ACV is? just curious maybeit will work out for me as well.. thanks:-)
Hi, ACV is apple cider vinegar 🙂
Can I try that ACV my keloid have been 14yrs I have I tried all method of injections and surgery and reoccurring can I try ACV and where can I buy it from in the USA store?
Hello All. Ive Been Battleing Keliods My Entire Life. In Second Grade I Got My First One. An Ugly Scar On My Ear After Having It Peirced. I Had Thag One Surgically Removed. Throughout Thr Years, Ive Received A Few More In Places No One Noticed And They Are All Very Small. Recently, I Developed Two On My Face After A Barber Cut Both Sides Of My Hairline With A Straight Razor While Edging Up My Hair. Ive Read About All The Remedies For Them But Decided To Go My Own Route. Ive Always Used Tea Tree Oil On My Hair And Skin And When I Applied This To The Larger One On My Face And Tied It Down It Dried Up And Fell Off! Im Soooo Excited To Have My Face Back. I Just Keep It Clean And Apply Tea Tree Oil On It After A Shower Every Morning And Night. I Pray It Doesn’t Return. 🙂 Thanks
That’s really great 🙂 Thanks for sharing your experience, John.
Where can I buy tea tree from which store in the USA?
Anyone whos had cryoshape done please share ur experience wiv me
Hello,
I have found your website, and I would like to ask you, how could I get rid of scar on my nose? I had cystic pimple 4,5 years ago, it left me a hyperthropic scar, after 2 years I decided to get microdermabrasion done, my dermatologist suggested it to me. Nurse screwed up and left me with bigger scar due to microdermabrasion (scar is now longer).
1 month ago I got another cystic pimple, on other side of nose, it was smaller though, but it too left me with raised scar. I squeezed the fresh scar and lot of blood came out, week after skin under pimple swelled up.
I used aknemycin on it, it helped, once it was healed, I used Kelo-Cote (silicone cream) on my old scar, and new scar. It made both scars worse unfortunately :/. Old scar has raised and widened a bit due to silicone. New Scar? I was applying silicone on and around the scar, it seems like it has dyed skin white around the scar, and raised it a bit. There is one small bump, my scar,then next to it is another one,and under it is another one, it kind of froms a triangle. Dermatologists I visited said that it is a scar tissue.
I have used Kelo-Cote on new scar only for like 5 days, and on old scar for maybe 8-9 days. Even though I hae used it only for such a short time, it has made a difference in my scars, and it is worse Sad.
Btw, I have researched a lot about possible “solutions” to scar healing, which one do you think is the best one?
I have managed to find this so far:
I found hemorrhoid cream that works on scars,essential oils, enzymes (serraptetase and nattokinase), vitalzym (enzymes+other ingredients), manuka honey, then oil, then gotu kola, sangre de drago, massages, needling, silica “drink”, florasil, micropore tape (and other tapes), thyme oil, tamanu oil, vinegar method, edgar cayce scar oil recipe, saliva, urine therapy, celandula oil,germ oil, Helichrysum oil,black seed oil,arnica oil, dr max scar serum, avocado oil, aloe vera, invincible scars, manuka oil, emu oil, old urine for topical application, retin A, lugols iodine, sski/dmso.
From everything I have found so far, the most effective indeed sounds castor oil, and then rosehip oil and avocado oil, and perhaps also Helichrysum oil, topical application of Lugols Iodine.
In case you wanted, I can post you pictures of my scars. I would like to ask you, what would you recommend? What kind of treatment for scars? Keep in mind, that they are on nose, and I have heard, that nose heals unpredictably :/.
I have tried taking Serraptase for some time (1 months, higher doses), that did not help, then massaging it with manuka honey, it made scarring slightly worse. Now I am massaging it with virgin castor oil I bought from pharmacy (hopefully they do not have any chemicals in it, pharmacist assured me that there are none). I have skin condition called Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, which makes my skin more oily, and castor oil supposedly clogs pores, hopefully it will not make me break out :/. So far, I have been using it for 1 day (this is my second day), and nothing happpened.
Thank you :).
Hey ,there so sorry to hear about your scars keloid scars are the worst thing in the world i have suffered for 5yrs with mine .tbh with you i have tried silicone sheets,cream for the dermatloigist,steriod injections and surgerey none which was a sucess im still on the look out theres no assurance with keloids.im considering to get cryoshape done (this is when the dr will insert liquid nitrogen into the scar that freezes out and kills the nerve endings ). The dr claims it has a 70% sucess rate. But again like i said keloids are unpredictable but nethertheless hes based in derby and theres a dr that performs the treatment in kent too.if you type in nimrod cryoshape in google youll find him .also someone who had the procedure done, created a wordpress called my cryoshape experience type in google and check that out too its a very thorough document of the mans experience and journey with cryoshape .hope this helped .
Thank you limited :). However, I do not have keloid scars, but hyperthropic scars, that means raised, but they do not go beyond border of the original wound.
I have researched about cryoshape as well, but it is not possible to apply it on my scars, I have talked with the clinic. Scar needs to be quite big in order for this to work.
But do not worry, you will get rid of yours :).
Hi Samantha, this is little off topic, but I need your help, desperately, you are very knowledgeable. I had written about my hypertrophic scar on my nose about 2 months ago. Well, 1 month ago I started applying castor oil and saw both improvement and worsening, since I saw worsening as well, it scared me a little bit, I thought it was because of oil. So I tried to massage oil only within the boundary of scar, I did it with a Qtip. It did not seem to me like I pressed hard or anything, but after short massage the scar became white, swollen, it hurt, and half of it created a scab. Scar stayed bigger, and not only that, it becomes thicker every day. I am really frightened. It has spread a little bit.
From what I know, keloids are extremely rare, if not unheard of on central face . I reasearched a lot, and there were only few cases. Do you think I may have formed a keloid due to massage with qtip? Or is it a hypertrophic scar that is maturing, which means it thickens as well.
Could I catch you on Skype perhaps? It would help me a lot, please,add me: Arkantos 5 . I need your help. Thank you.
Hi Lukas,
I’ve moved your comment to this post instead since it seems more relevant. Hope that’s okay.
I just read your previous comment and the first thing that I thought was that’s a lot of stuff you’ve been trying.
From what you describe, it does sound like there’s some keloidal properties to your scar, in the sense that it seems to be growing. But it’s hard to tell for sure, of course.
But maybe what I can share about treating my oldest hypertrophic scar (it’s on my elbow) might help you a little. This scar on my elbow is definitely not a keloid, but is a very deep, old and raised scar. I’ve been treating it for almost 2 years now with castor oil and occassional iodine painting. I still have it, but it’s now so very different.
It had started as a very tough, dark reddish nub that would hurt when I press on it. Now one side is almost flat, the redness has faded dramatically and it’s quite soft and pliable, closer to the texture and feel of normal flesh. And it has stopped hurting.
But what’s most interesting… was the way my scar changed. It wasn’t a straightforward fading like I’d expected at all.
The visible scar widened at one point and changed it’s “shape” a few times. I know my scar very well (or so I thought), so to see such changes was something else. It made me nervous until I realised what was probably happening.
My scar was healing, but it was also healing from the bottom-up. A scar, especially deep scars like mine, is actually kind of like an iceberg. There’s actually a lot more beneath the surface.
What I saw as a hard nub was really just the tip, and there was a lot more scarring underneath. My scar in particular had vascularized over many years. It had its own blood vessels and nerves growing through and around the scarred tissue (hence, the pain I felt when I pressed on it and it’s reddish coloring).
And as it healed from the bottom-up, what I saw as my scar changing shape was actually the scarring underneath being revealed as it healed. This explains the apparent widening of my scar and it’s shape shifting. What had been below was coming up.
I don’t know if this applies to you since our scars are quite different, but you had mentioned in your older comment that one of the treatments you had tried had made your scar worse and led to some whitening and widening of the scar. Could it be that castor oil is revealing that previous, most recent damage? From what I know, our bodies tend to do its healing “in reverse” (i.e. the most recent damage gets healed first). And what can seem like something getting worse could just be part of the healing process.
You’d be in the best position to judge this, I think.
p.s: I don’t have skype or a webcam, but feel free to email me photos of your scar (if you’re comfortable doing so) at sam [at] skinverse [dot] com. Sorry, gotta write it that way to thwart the spambots!
Sam
Hello,
I have hypertrophic scars on my nose. I had cystic pimple 4,5 years ago, it left me a hyperthropic scar, after 2 years I decided to get microdermabrasion done, my dermatologist suggested it to me. Nurse made a mistake and left me with bigger scar due to microdermabrasion (scar is now longer).
3 months ago I got another cystic pimple, on other side of nose, it was smaller though, but it too left me with raised scar. I squeezed the fresh scar and lot of blood came out, week after skin under pimple swelled up.
I used aknemycin on it, it helped, once it was healed, I used Kelo-Cote (silicone cream) on my old scar, and new scar. It made both scars worse unfortunately :/. Old scar has raised and widened a bit due to silicone. New Scar? I was applying silicone on and around the scar, it seems like it has dyed skin white around the scar, and raised it a bit. There is one small bump, my scar,then next to it is another one,and under it is another one, it kind of froms a triangle. Dermatologists I visited said that it is a scar tissue.
I have used Kelo-Cote on new scar only for like 5 days, and on old scar for maybe 8-9 days. Even though I have used it only for such a short time, it has made a difference in my scars, and it is worse.
What I have managed to damage one month ago is scar from cystic pimple near tip of my nose, scar has widened, became more raised, and spreads a little tiny bit every day. Since I observe it a lot, I see those changes. There is definite and obvious change after one month. I do not have recent pictures unfortunately. I do not know if this is a keloid or not, after damage that I had caused to my scar 1 month ago, but the thing is, that they do not tend to form there. What I am trying to say here is that these changes could be maturation of scar. Scars supposedly thicken and worsen during 6-12 months, then either do not change, or improve with time.
May I ask you, was burn scar healing different from hyperthropic ? Burn scar, it seems, had straightforward healing, while hyperthropic has,as you mentioned in your post, had lot of scar tissue underneath the skin. So, worsening of scar at some point of healing is very likely. What can I expect further? Btw, I do not think doing a heating pad,etc. on my nose scar would be a good idea. Would perhaps putting a cotton swab over a scar a better idea, and leaving it overnight? Can I not expect worsening – creation of further scar tissue?
I am also curious about iodine painting. Which kind of iodine do you use, SSKI,lugol’s,etc.? Have you experienced iododerma or brododerma? How exactly were you painting your scar and how often? What in case if my normal tissue would get affected, I heard of cases where either nothing has happened at all, or some people warning, that it may burn rest of the skin. May I expect worsening of scar through iodine use? I heard that abnormal scars are result of iodine deficiency, which is common throughout the world. It does not happen in japan, because they have enough of it. Therefore painting abnormal scar with iodine should not worsen it at all, because you are basically supplementing it with what it needs, while focusing it one that one particular area.
Thank you :).
Sincerely,
Lukas
Hi Lukas
May I ask you, was burn scar healing different from hyperthropic ? What can I expect further? Would perhaps putting a cotton swab over a scar a better idea, and leaving it overnight? Can I not expect worsening – creation of further scar tissue?
If I had to compare, I think my hyperthrophic scar takes longer to heal. But in my case, it was a very tough scar so I’m not surprised. Also, it had clearly vascularized, whereas my burn scar was less complex. It’s hard for me to tell you what to expect. Yes, healing can sometimes make a scar look worse for a while.
I think if you avoid chemical or harsh scar remedies, you’d at least be assured that you’re not doing more damage. From my experience, natural and deep healing oils should only help and not harm. And you should use whatever you’re most comfortable with. Castor oil, shea butter, coconut oil and EVCO are all good choices. Like I’ve mentioned before to other commenters, I think what really gets us results is patience and consistency (that’s actually the hard part because we get discouraged and stop).
I’d suggest keeping your routine simple and easy for you to do everyday. There’s no need to add heat, especially since that could be too messy and cumbersome. Also as you said, since you’re not sure whether it’s a keloid or not, it’s best to avoid heat in case it agitates the scar.
However, if you can comfortably (and safely) sleep with a small castor oil-soaked (or other oil) bandage taped over your scar, that could help speed your healing. Castor oil will stain your pillowcase though, so use an old one if you do this.
Which kind of iodine do you use, SSKI,lugol’s,etc.? Have you experienced iododerma or brododerma? How exactly were you painting your scar and how often? What in case if my normal tissue would get affected, I heard of cases where either nothing has happened at all, or some people warning, that it may burn rest of the skin. May I expect worsening of scar through iodine use?
I use iodine tincture that I get from the pharmacy. It’s labeled for use as a first aid antiseptic and should be easy to find on most pharmacy shelves. However, you may not want to use it on your nose at all since it can burn the skin on the face. I’ve tried it myself on a pimple before and yes, it burns!
However, it doesn’t burn when painted on other parts of the body. It stains the skin brown (usually fades in 24 hours or less if your body is very deficient), and repeated painting over the same area will cause dryness, a bit itchiness and skin flaking (these are all pretty minor side effects from the alcohol).
I paint iodine over my scar and body irregularly (maybe once every 2 weeks). I take Iodoral (an iodine/iodide supplement) every day so I don’t really need it, but I do it because I think it might help to have some iodine enter my scar directly.
If you want to use iodine tincture to help with your scar, you can still do so, but just paint it over other parts of your body like your back or abdomen. The main purpose of doing this is to raise your body’s iodine levels. Iodine is a needed nutrient, so if you believe you don’t get enough in your diet (most people don’t), at the very least, having enough iodine in your body may prevent further keloidal scarring.
And if you’d like, another type of iodine that you can actually use on your nose safely and without any burning is betadine or povidone iodine (can also be found on pharmacy shelves). I don’t know how much iodine can be absorbed with this solution, though it’s probably better than nothing. It’s a bit harder to paint on and is “slippery”. On the plus side, it can be easily wiped or washed off the skin, leaving behind no stain (unlike iodine tincture). I don’t use povidone for my scar so I can’t speak about its effectiveness, but it’s a safe option for facial skin.
I’ve not gotten iododerma or brododerma (I actually had to google them). At the worst case, when I was repeatedly painting my scar with iodine ticture too much, all I got was dry skin that would flake and peel. Once, I painted my scar until it burned a little and what happened after is what you’d expect from a very light chemical peel. This was more annoying than damaging though.
And if you’re concerned about trying anything, just test it on another part of your skin/body first.
Hope that helps you a bit, Lukas.
Sam
Sam I saw various ACV which one don I need to buy?
Hi Everyone! I have a few keloids that I have had for about 10 years. Two are on my chest area and a few more are on my back. They have grew in size since my first pregnancy(5 years ago). Recently someone saw my keloid on my chest and recommended a cream. She showed me her keloid that has flatten after using the cream. I have been applying the cream about twice a day over my keloids and around the skin area. The color has lighten tremendously and it has gone down. I will continue to write my progress if it continues to flatten. If anyone is interested, the cream is a Thai product cream and can possibly be found at your nearest Asian store. It is called Dermovate cream.
Thanks for sharing, Chee. I believe the cream is a type of corticosteroid.
How is this working for you Chee?
Hello everyone. I’d been using teatree oil and lavender oil on my Keloids. I read somewhere that virgin saliva helps too, so first thing in the morning, before eating or brushing my teeth, I’d rub some saliva on the Keloids, wait for thirty minutes to an hour, then wash off and rub some tea tree oil and lavender oil then continue with my day. Then I noticed my Keloids started flaking and after a few days, they were oozing this sticky pale yellow subtance, however, there were these little rashes that popped up around the Keloids and I was scared I’d affect the healthy skin. So I gave that a break and started on castor oil. My Keloids are about eight years old and they are on my chest and two small ones on my jawline. And the funny thing is, they are predominate on my right side. Could there be a reason for this? Thank you.
Hi Chibs, I actually did a double-take when I read “virgin saliva” in your comment! 🙂 I’ve not heard of saliva or virgin saliva (what’s the difference?) helping skin conditions.
Saliva contains enzymes, but as far as I know, these are enzymes that work to digest our food and break them down to simpler sugars. You might have better results with ingesting other enzymes such as nattokinase or serrapeptase — these can help break down internal fibrous tissue or scar tissue over time (should be taken on an empty stomach though).
I don’t know what the yellow substance is, but it sounds like an infection. To some extent, saliva is anti-bacterial, but it also carries bacteria and viruses. Many diseases are spread through saliva and are related to oral bacteria. If your saliva was causing an infection (leading to the yellow substance being excreted), it’ll inflame and further irritate your keloid. So it’s good that you’ve stopped using saliva. I wouldn’t recommend using it again. Stick with what’s helpful and safe like castor oil and tea tree oil.
I’m not sure why your keloids appear more on the right side of your body. It could be down to simple habits such as sleeping on the right side, carrying heavy bags on the right shoulder, etc. There’s nothing wrong with doing these things, but it’s possible that they would lead to more pressure, irritation and injury on the right side over time.
Hope this helps.
Sam
Hello Sam? Glad you responded. Virgin saliva, from what I read is the saliva that you’ll be having in your mouth before eating anything in the morning(gross, I know). I’ve since stopped that cause I was concerned as well of making my scars infected. However, everytime I use tea tree oil, I reopen the wounds/rashes on the Keloids. Still using it, however, I make sure I smear castor oil around the keloid to protect my healthy skin. Won’t give up.
Hi Sam, here’s the link to where I got the Saliva theory…..scroll down and you’ll see comments on the same, even from yours truly….:)
Hi Chibs and to anyone who may be reading;
First off, I finally got rid of my 1inch keloid located on the r-front of neck after 10 years of trying everything on that poll survey with unsatisfying results. Everything and more. What finally worked was a combo method administered by a skin specialist in San Jose, CA. I’m not advertising here and I am not going to name that specialist because its been a while and I cannot remember her name anyways. ok read on.
The Method: 1)The keloid was injected with very small doses of steriods (again I dont remember the name or type of steriods but will check if you ask me to) around the surrounding edges of my scar only(not in the dead center), 2) it was then held down with pressure by a very thin self adhesive silicon sheet, provided by the skin specialist 3) the silcone sheet was then held down in place by long skinny medical stitch tapes. Leave on for as long as possible without irritating the area. So almost 24hours or more, 4) remove and clean the area when u shower or lose stickiness of silcone using a mild NON-moisturizing/irritating/fragrant soap. I used the original green palmolive dish soap to wash my silicone sheet and the area on my skin because it cuts the grease ;-). lay out the silcone on a clean paper towel to air dry. While its air drying, I gently massage my keloid with the palms of fingers(no nails, no cream/ no fragrant soaps, no irritants because you are going to be covering that area for 24 hours or more for probably the entire year and trapping moisture+ Darkness+warmth=mold or in humans fungi problems so no moisturizer unless you dont plan on wearing the silcone sheet that you should be wearing to keep the area flat at all times.
Good results was evident for me within a month but I continued to wear the silcone for the entire year due to fear of relapse 4) and i went back to repeat the above steps again afterwards to ensure that it stayed flat. The initial cost for the first visit w/ injection was about $200 maybe less. the second visit was cheaper. i only saw the specialist 2-3 x over a 1 year. The color is still noticeable looking like a permanent flat hickey/lovebite but I’m not going to complain because at least its flat, soft, and I’m not in physical pain.
I had good results, which was shocking, unexpected due to so many letdown remedies. But you know its working when the edges are less raised and seems to be leveling all around.
I tried every single thing on that poll survey in the past decade. Frankly, I’m surprised to see that Hei Ba Gao paste was on there, it brought back memories of how desperate I was to rid of my keloid(did not work for me). I’m smiling just thinking about those days and very sad when my first attempt to rid of the keloid by removing it with surgery resulted in 2x the keloid. It took me 10years to have the nerve to seek professional help again.
About the injury, I had an deep cut/injury to my neck on the right front side, close to where you take your pulse. It formed into a keloid because 1) I didn’t seek professional help to stitch up the 1.5 inch long and very deep cut 2) my diet: do not eat SHRIMP, LOBSTERS, CRABS, CRAWFISH, until it heals completely. It doesnt matter whether you are allergic to seafood or not you are not to eat it. Fish maybe ok. Do not scratch the area under any circumstances especially when its very itchy ; u need to clean the area. For temporarily relief, use pressure, ice, or fresh(from a living aloe plant, medicinal(has white spots running along the leaf) aloe vera and air. I think I wrote enough for now. I’ll be happy answer any questions.
Love always,
Nt
Good Luck all wishing you the best.
Do read my other comment. Mine was on the right side neck too. 10years and finally flat ;-). theres hope. good luck.
nt
Nini!
Glad to hear of your progress and success. Its a pity very few can access your dermatologist, if at all…. Happy for you!
Be blessed!
Hey Chibs, here ya go:
Katherine Hong Do, M.D.
Milpitas Dermatology
991 Montague Expy, Ste 104
Milpitas, CA 95035
Phone number (408) 263-6073
I didn’t mean to be so vague about the “skin specialist.” Its just that I’m excellent at remembering directions yet terrible with names. I did some detective work on google maps street view and zoomed in on an old ad-poster on the city street to find her name, yelped it and found her new location from San Jose to Milpitas, CA.
About my visit, I basically told her the truth that I’m paying cash, no insurance, etc, etc..How the scar affects my daily activities(sharp pain, limited movement, etc.). I knew upfront that there was a fee for first visit just to consult, but I told her to hold apply it to my procedure on the next visit. All in all, believe it or not, it wasn’t that painful(procedure) and my keloid is just a regular red scar now. I am suppose to go back to lessen the redness that she anticipated but have not yet bc I’m just happy I don’t got two bumps on my neck. Plus, every visit is at least a hundred bucks for about 5-10 minutes of her time and skills.
But dont take my word for it cuz u need to do your own research on her educational and background to decide for yourself. Take care.
Hello, im 19, i’ll be 20 in a few months. I’ve had a keloid scar in my pubic region (YES NIGHTMARE!!) since i was about 16 years old. It started off a razor bump that kept coming back. I kept popping it with a needle, even tried burning the bump off (young n dumb). Somewhere along the line it turned into a keloid scar. It was small but around 7-8 months ago it increased in size. Its like The size and length of a baked bean. It has affected my sexual confidence, it takes EXTRA careful time to shave so that I don’t cut the keloid. I dont allow any guy to touch my pubic region. I have three very smaller ones that are sorta under the surface (not discolored) but even if i can get my big one to go down like these small unnoticable ones i’ll be grateful. I will work on the tiny ones one by one once i tackle this big guy. Lol well anyways i started the ACV 3 days ago. Well this morning makes my third morning. I applied regular store brand acv one night for about 30 min on 3 diff cotton balls with 1 minute rest between the cotton balls. The next day i did 2 cotton balls 3 times in one day. The top part of the keloid was raw, the perimeter got really dark. I cut up a raw onion n put it on the raw part (Burned like Hell!!!!) Because this scar gel i have, has onion extract in it so i figured its good for the healing of skin. After my cotton ball escapades i do apply the scar gel for relief. My keloid was Very tender yesterday, a little red. But today is black/brown because of a thin scab forming on it. Idk if i should apply acv still or let it heal n then continue? Lastnight i went to the grocery store n got braggs unpasteurized Organic acv n im excited to use it to see if it works better than regular acv. I am going to put a tsp in my glass of water everyday. & 3-5 cap fulls in my bath water every night. I noticed all the home remedies for keloids match those of warts. I got rid of a wart about 3 months ago. You have to boost your immune system (acv n daily supplements do that. Like a multi vitamin. Vit c,e, garlic capsules) i used to crack open my garlic caps n put on my wart, that helped tremendously with the ridding of my wart. Combining methods is the most effective thing to do. I wouldnt recommend iodine, i did that n my keloid came back. (I thought i was putting iodine on my razor bump but im pretty sure it was a keloid by then). It has the same effects as acv as far as burning n scabbing. But acv is better because it is said to stimulate stem cells n collagen. Plus natural healers are always better than chemicals!!! I will continue today with the Organic acv two cotton balls two or 3 times today & I will do it for a week then rest a week. & continue in that pattern. Umm next week i will start using garlic oil n vitamin e oil during my resting period from acv. In a month i will update you guys. Thank God for the Natural things that he has put on this earth. Oh and i forgot to mention i got steroid shots of something with a k or c I forget but it didnt work. It shrunk it for a day then my keloid got bigger. One of my small ones was flat for 3 weeks now is raised more than before. So yeah.. Wish me luck with the acv. I pray thateveryone taking the time out to heal themselves reaches victory against tthese ugly keloid scars!!
Hi everyone, Im from Costa Rica . I had keloids scar all my life from a awful accident , was about 40 cms in my breast. I tried everything you can imagine, spend a lot of money and pain, from cortisone shots, laser, cryo, acv, lugo´s, salicilic acid … … and nothing works.
Finally I found a holistic clinic, that start dissolved my scars in matter of weeks, painless. They put a solution in the clinic, and gave me a cream for many times a day, and a white mineral exfoliant-
I feel that I living a dream.
Hello Anna!
Glad to hear how quick and effective your holistic treatment was…..could you kindly shed more light on how to contact the holistic clinic you went to? I’m based in Lesotho, South Africa. Would like to learn more.
I need help on my keloid on my right thumb that is pressing in my veins that sends electrical shocks to my kneck then runs to my left arms and ends in my left hands. Its bearable but its pretty annoying and I will cut this off and do a regular stitch once I get my MRI results. But then this devices vaguely detects an injury and insults my pain with a perfect condition results. I’ve done a good 1″ surgical stitch on one of my injuries but taking off a keloid I do need a help off the record with any medic inclined or a soldier way in surgery ? Pls advice ?
I am so relieved to have found this site! It is amazing to see how many of you suffer from Keloids. It also makes me feel like I am not alone in my battle. I have around 21 scars. The largest is on my shoulder. Originally, I had four very painful scars on my left shoulder and back. Unfortunately, I went for minor surgery thinking it would go away. The pain from the surgery was unbearable. I cried for weeks. My doctor told me to take over the counter painkillers, I was hooked on these for about 4 months. Two extra strength painkillers every four hours. I felt so rubbish and drowsy – just very tired all the time. Fast forward to a few months later. I noticed new keloids forming. I was so downhearted to see that all 14 stitches had no become keloids. The worst thing was that my doctor had to remove muscle due to the depth of the keloid. So now my left shoulder aches if I pick up objects, such as an oven tray or a book. My shoulder was left with one large scar and 14 surrounding it. I also have two other keloids on my back which are the width of two fingers. There appear to be three small new keloids on my right shoulder. My last keloid is on the tip of my pinky finger. It is very sensitive to hot water and anything that stings skin. It swells up, burns itches and I have sharp twinges. I have been told that this scar is harder to inject due to the skin being too close to the bone. I could damage the bone and cause an infection. My family are all so worried. When my scars burn I get very irritable. I have noticed that my moods are effected by my keloids but also vice versa. When I get anxious from not sleeping (due to keloid discomfort) my whole body heats up and my scars burn. I just don’t know what to do. My doctor says nothing can be done, we have spoken about injections etc but he says I need to find a medical professional that won’t mind experimenting on my keloids. This has me so worried about marriage and kids. I have been told that I am auto immune to keloids – they are hereditary. However, nobody in my family had ever heard of them, until my case. Diet does effect keloids but I get so depressed that I still eat what I shouldn’t. If I feel down I consume sugar. Also, alcohol effects the keloids too. My body is usually very hot most days, alcohol makes it worse. Going back to the topic of diet, recently I had been eating a lot of tomatoes. Almost all week, not just in sandwiches but also in soup etc. My scars became soft and so sensitive. I found it hard to change my clothes, sleep and had so much pain. I just don’t know what I am going to do. I have had keloids for about 3 years. Talking about them makes me cry sometimes and it is so mentally draining. Exercise would probably help but I fear stretching my skin, possibly causing more keloids or worsening the ones I have. I have sharp twinges which leave me unable to breathe for a few seconds. I am not taking any painkillers as they are rubbish for my immune sytem, also I don’t want to become hooked again. =( On the upside, I had Accupuncture for the past month. It was a slow process but it certainly helped with the pain. Also, did wonders for my sleep and relieved my back and neck stiffness. The doctor gave me two types of chinese herbals teas, performed a deep tissue massage and Accupuncture on my back. Unfortunately, I couldn’t have Accupuncture in my finger – due to risk of infection.
Hi friends,
I am surprised that there are many like me suffering the same embarassment and pain …i have keloids too..i have 3pea size,5pimple size keloids on my chest and 3pea size keloid on my back and one on my left upper arm…its going to be 3yrs …after i had pox i have dis ugly scars …but the first one the biggest one of all on my chest was from a acne..i tried few oinments prescribed a dermologist first that gave no result instead gave me few more scars then i tried mederma with no great result i stopped it after using it for 6months…then i used kelo cote scar gel for 6months it only changed the colour from dark brown to light pinkish brown..i once used apple cidder vinegar for a week ..on the keloid on my arm it did soften it but i didnt continued feeling impatient. Now i apply boroline anteseptic cream daily at night…it helps me to keep away from itching….today i am thinking to give a try to iodine tincture …thank u all for shareing ur experinces…goodluck to all.
I’ve been using acv on my 12yrs keloid for 4days, this thing sting so bad, but I can see de diffence already, the skin around it is black,an still a bit painfull hope to see the good results.
dermovate cream works magic.its very good.you can get one at a cosmetic shop or pharmacy.
I had a tattoo done about 1yr ago and where the red ink was used keloids formed with an ongoing itch and rash. I tried creams, acv, tea tree oil, saliva, and others and it’s just there no change. please help!!!!
Hi Beverly, it sounds like there’s some kind of ongoing infection or allergic reaction at the site. If home remedies haven’t worked, you might need to seek medical attention to find out what’s going on, especially since it’s not a scar/keloid caused by injury only, but also involves tattoo ink chemicals.
One of my relative girl have kelid on her chest.please suggest Doctor and cont. No.And address
Hello everyone, my name is natonia i am from jamaica i have a keloid on my face from the pass 2 and a half years now, it is a cut which caused it. What can i used to take it off? Can i use garlic? Please help me someone !! Email me at [email protected] please help
Hi Natonia, I’m sorry to hear that. But I wouldn’t advise on trying garlic in your case since facial skin tends to be more sensitive. You could try a few of the gentler remedies on this page like castor/tea tree oil and silicone gel sheets as well as dietary changes such as adding iodine to your diet (to prevent future keloids). Good luck and take care
ok thnks
Hi guys i have keloid on my ear. I done 3 time surgery but grew again. So i decided to use home remedies. I tried Baking soda, hydrogen peroxide but its split my skin around keloid area at that same im wrapped rubber band. Its too painful god for 3 days i feel hell pain. But now i had big wound
so that i removed rubber band. Pls give me some idea recurs from this bullshit keloid [for this wound im applying coconut oil with turmeric ]
Hi Lincypreethi, I’m sorry to hear about the pain. But coconut oil and turmeric seems like a smart choice as it should help prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
I would also suggest take extra Vitamin C daily to speed up your cellular healing.
Take care!
Try to apply “Tooth Paste” on your kelloid after bath and let it be there till your next bath and apply again after bathing. I have 4 keloid and I try tooth paste and it’s seems working. If you want you can try there is no harm in trying.
Hi, My 18 months old daughter developed a Keloid near her collar bone from a coffee burn about 4 months back. We have been using the silicone sheet for almost a month now and we see very little to no improvement. I am against going for any surgery/injections as she is too young and since they are harmless. But I dont want it to grow or worsen so any recommendations would be appreciated. I was thinking of trying either Manuka Honey or Apple cider vinegar.
Hi Gagan, I’m sorry to hear about your daughter. There are a few milder remedies on this page (e.g. castor oil) that would be safe for a child. I hope you can find one that works.
I HAVE A KELOID BETWEEN MY BREASTS AN ITS INFECTED EVER SO OFTEN SO LOOKING FOR A SOLUTION TO THE SITUATION,I USED ACV ON IT BUT FORGET IT HAS LITTLE HOLES IN IT SO IM IN PAIN AND ITS SWOLLEN ONTHE INSIDE
Hi Avion, perhaps you could try a gentle anti-bacteria like betadine to help clear the infection. It contains iodine, but shouldn’t sting like iodine tincture would.
Hi Samantha,
I tried using an oil with Avacado religiously for 6 months and while the rest of my face looks amazing, it didn’t touch the fibrosis and surgical scar on my face. I started using castor oil very consistently one week ago and applying a heating pad as much as possible. I definitely already see a change in the scarring, but now it’s beginning to get very dry and starting to peel. Do I keep applying it or do I wait for it to peel and then start all over again? I’ve read that castor oil is too drying and can cause micro tearing so this concerns me. Interestingly, only the scarred parts are peeling, not the regular skin. I was just curious what to make of the peeling? Did you experience that as well and if so, how do I approach it? Thank you so much!
Hi Alice, apologies for my late reply. I meant to reply to your first comment then promptly forgot (sigh).
If your scar is peeling, I think what’s important is the condition of the skin *beneath* the peeling layer. If it looks healthy (not sore to the touch, reddish and overly sensitive or “raw”), then you can carry on with using castor oil over it if you wish. It may be easier for castor oil to penetrate this fresh new healthy skin and reach the deeper scar tissue underneath so there could be some upside to continuing applications. However, the downside is that castor oil may delay the drying of the top-most dead layer by keeping it moist i.e. the peeling layer could take longer to dry up and fall off.
But if on the other hand, you see that the skin under the peeling layer is very raw, red and sensitive, then you should take more care and use your own good judgement. If castor oil applications are making the area feel even more sensitive, then take a break from it until the redness disappears and the skin returns to a healthy thickness. But if it’s instead soothing to the area, then continue on with the castor oil applications.
I hope that helps. And don’t worry too much about your scar peeling. I’ve been using castor oil on an old raised scar on my elbow for a long time and have seen this peeling effect myself. It comes and goes, and from my experience, isn’t anything to worry about. I actually think it’s a positive sign that layers are sloughing off. Like you said, it’s only the scar tissue that’s peeling and not the healthy skin surrounding it, and that to me is encouraging.
Best,
Sam
Hi my hairstylist mistakenenly cut my ear two years ago.It wasn’t serious till the past four months when i noticed a keloid has formed over there .I tried baking soda with garlic it scabed but there was no improvement.i used castor oil but still.This time round i’m using acv together with the string method.I started today.It stung for a while and it stopped i plan on changing the string every week eventhough i will apply the acv everyday.I started with the acv a week a ago and it has reduced it scabed.I pray this works .
Good luck, Mimi. Let us know how it goes.
Sam
I pray the acv works
Hi Samantha, your email address [email protected] doesn’t work anymore? Are you reachable at another one?
Hi Nelly, yes — sorry that email hasn’t been active for a long time now. If you wouldn’t mind, leaving a comment would be the best way.
Sam