Keloids and raised scars,
approached with care.
Raised scars can itch, hurt and affect how you feel about your skin. They also need more care than most scars, because the wrong treatment can make them grow. Every plan here starts with a careful assessment and honest expectations.
Keloids and hypertrophic scars are raised scars caused by the skin making too much collagen as it heals. Keloids grow beyond the original wound and are more common in darker skin. PSRx assesses every raised scar carefully, then uses options like scar injections, laser and pressure care. Keloids can return, so the plan includes ongoing care.
Keloid,
or hypertrophic scar?
Both are raised scars, but they behave differently. Knowing which you have shapes the plan and what to expect.
A scar that is growing quickly, bleeding or changing should be checked by a physician.
Who it's for —
and who it isn’t.
Your provider confirms what's right for you at your consultation.
We look closely
before we treat.
Raised scars need a careful look before any treatment, because the wrong step can make a keloid grow.
Keloids are more common
in darker skin.
People with Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin are more likely to form keloids, and more likely to be harmed by aggressive treatment. PSRx is an industry leader in caring for darker skin, and we approach every raised scar with the caution it needs.
- ✦Every raised scar is assessed before any treatment begins.
- ✦Plans avoid steps that could injure the skin and trigger new keloids.
- ✦We ask about family history, because keloid risk often runs in families.
- ✦We refer to a specialist when a keloid needs care beyond our clinic.
Flatten, soften
and manage over time.
Raised scars usually respond best to a combination of treatments, chosen after a careful assessment.
From consultation
to lasting results.
Keloid & Hypertrophic Scars FAQ.
Can keloids be removed?
Keloids can often be flattened, softened and made less noticeable, but they can't always be removed, and they can return. Cutting a keloid out without follow-up care often makes it come back larger. That's why PSRx focuses on careful, combined treatment and ongoing care rather than one-time removal.
Why do keloids come back?
Keloids come back because the skin's tendency to overproduce collagen doesn't go away after treatment. Any new injury to the area can restart scar growth. Ongoing care, like silicone and pressure, and early treatment of any regrowth help keep a keloid under control over time.
Are keloids more common in Black skin?
Yes, keloids are more common in people with darker skin, including Black, Hispanic and Asian patients. Genetics play a role, so a family history raises your risk. If you're prone to keloids, tell your provider before any treatment, including piercings or procedures.
What's the difference between a keloid and a hypertrophic scar?
A hypertrophic scar stays within the edges of the original wound and may flatten over time. A keloid grows beyond the original wound, sometimes long after healing, and is less likely to flatten on its own. Both are raised scars, but keloids usually need more careful, ongoing treatment.
Do scar injections hurt?
Scar injections can sting briefly, and keloids can be firm, so you may feel pressure. Your provider will talk through what to expect and ways to make you comfortable. Many people find the relief from itching and tightness worth the short discomfort.
Can I get a keloid from a piercing or acne?
Yes. Keloids can form after ear piercings, acne, razor bumps, surgery, burns and even minor scratches, especially in people prone to them. If you've had a keloid before, talk with your provider before any new piercing, procedure or skin treatment.
right diagnosis.
Book a consultation at our South Loop clinic, or take the free 60-second Skin Assessment and our clinical team will build your personalized skin summary.