Scars are a natural part of the tissue healing process, but in some cases, they can become excessive and unsightly. Keloid and hypertrophic scars result from an abnormal wound healing response in certain individuals.

The Science

Keloid and hypertrophic scars can occur due to trauma, inflammation, surgery, burns or even spontaneously. Keloid scars often appear as raised, red or purple-colored scars with a firm texture. They grow beyond the confines of the wound and can occur years after the injury. Hypertrophic scars occur within weeks of the injury and are limited to the confines of the original wound boundaries. Those with darker skin and younger patients are more prone to keloid scar formation. Distinguishing between keloid and hypertrophic scars can be challenging. Keloid scars tend not to regress without treatment, whereas hypertrophic scars may improve over time with no treatment.

The pathogenesis is hypothesized to involve dysregulation of the normal healing process, resulting in excessive production of collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and extracellular matrix proteins. There is an increase in the number of fibroblasts and mast cells, with increased growth factors and cytokines in keloid scars.

Keloid scars most commonly occur in areas of high anatomic skin tension like the shoulders, chest, earlobes, and upper arms. Hypertrophic and keloid scars not only cause cosmetic disfigurement, but they can also cause adverse social and psychological effects and may even limit movement and limb growth in children.

Keloid and hypertrophic scars can have a profound effect on your physical appearance and emotional well-being. Scars, although a natural part of the healing process, can sometimes become excessive, leading to significant distress and even physical limitations. The Marr Clinic approach to treatment is comprehensive, utilizing various methods such as cryotherapy, intralesional corticosteroids, laser treatments, subcision, and microneedling. Each of these treatments targets different aspects of scar formation, from reducing redness and flattening raised areas to stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of keloid and hypertrophic scar formation is crucial for effective treatment. If you or a loved one is struggling with keloid or hypertrophic scars, we encourage you to seek expert guidance to explore the best treatment options tailored to your needs.

Solutions

Effective treatments for scarring include:

Other Treatments and Strategies

Preventative strategies for hair loss include:

Gentle Hair Care: Avoiding harsh chemical treatments and tight hairstyles.

Oral Supplements: Including vitamins B, C, and E, biotin, folate, zinc, and iron.

Hair Transplantation: For permanent hair restoration in cases of significant hair loss.

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