Keloid Removal | Keloid Scar Treatment
What Are Keloid Scars?
Keloids are a type of raised scar that form when the body produces too much collagen during wound healing. Instead of stopping when the original wound closes, the skin keeps producing scar tissue, leading to a thick, smooth, and often shiny growth that extends beyond the original injury.
They can appear:
- After skin trauma (cuts, surgery, acne)
- From minor injuries like insect bites or piercings
- Even with no clear trigger at all
Unlike hypertrophic scars (which stay within the wound site), keloid scars tend to spread. They’re more stubborn. And often more visible.ment options and schedule a consultation today to learn how we can help you embrace your skin confidently and comfortably.
Why Do Keloid Scars Form?
Several factors contribute to keloid formation:
- Overactive collagen response: The body goes into overdrive, producing tissue after skin trauma.
- Skin tension: Wounds in high-tension areas (like the chest or shoulders) are more likely to scar.
- Genetics: A family history of keloids increases your risk.
- Hormonal changes: Teenagers and pregnant women may be more prone due to fluctuating hormones.
- Inflammation: Prolonged or severe inflammation can raise the risk of keloid development.
Even minor injuries, like a scratch or body piercing, can cause a keloid in someone prone to this condition.
Recognising the Signs of a Keloid
So, how do you know if that scar is more than just a scar?
Look out for:
- A raised, shiny bump that grows over time
- Firm texture, rubbery to the touch
- Dark pigmentation or redness
- Itching or tenderness
- A scar that extends beyond the original wound
- Increased thickness months after the injury
Keloid scars are most common on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and jawline, but can appear anywhere.
Risks and Concerns of Untreated Keloids
Leaving a keloid untreated might seem harmless at first. But over time, problems can grow, literally and emotionally.
Here’s what could happen:
- Discomfort: Some keloids itch or hurt
- Size increase: Keloids often continue to grow
- Skin damage: Thick scarring can affect movement or tension
- Emotional distress: Keloids in visible areas affect self-esteem
- Skin infections: Rare, but possible with persistent irritation or scratching
That’s why early keloid treatment is key. Addressing it before it worsens can lead to a smoother, faster outcome.
How Is a Keloid Scar Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is straightforward. A qualified dermatologist will assess:
- The scar’s appearance
- Medical and family history
- The original wound or injury
- Your skin type and healing pattern
No biopsy or tests are usually needed — just a thorough clinical exam. However, in rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions that mimic keloids e.g dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
Keloid Scar Treatment Options
There’s no universal cure for keloids. But there are multiple treatment methods—and often, combining them works best.
- Corticosteroid Injections
A common first step. These reduce inflammation, flatten the scar, and ease discomfort. Multiple sessions are often required, spaced weeks apart. These injections work by decreasing the production of collagen and reducing scar tissue thickness.
Good for: Small to medium keloids, early-stage scars
- Laser Therapy (e.g. Pulsed-Dye Laser)
Laser treatments improve scar colour and texture while helping reduce thickness. Pulsed dye lasers help to reduce the redness and vascularity in keloids while fractional lasers can be used for mature keloids to blend the keloid better with the surrounding skin. Picosecond lasers can also be used to treat pigmentation in keloids.
Good for: Keloids with redness, pigmentation, raised texture or an alternative for those afraid of intralesional steroid injections.
- Cryotherapy
Freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen helps shrink it, especially when combined with injections. Cryotherapy works by destroying abnormal scar tissue and reducing the size of the keloid over time.
Good for: Small keloids, especially on earlobes
- Surgical Keloid Removal (with Caution)
Removing a keloid surgically may seem appealing. But without preventive steps, recurrence is common. That’s why surgery is often paired with steroids, laser, or pressure therapy e.g pressure clip earrings for earlobe keloids. Post-operative silicone dressings or pressure garments are often prescribed.
Good for: Larger keloids, or when other treatments fail
- Topical Silicone or Pressure Dressings
Silicone gel sheets and pressure garments help reduce collagen production and flatten scars over time. These treatments are non-invasive and often used alongside other methods to maintain results.
Good for: Post-treatment care, prevention after surgery
- Combination Therapy
Often, the most effective strategy. A dermatologist might recommend:
- Steroid injections + laser
- Surgery + silicone sheeting
- Cryotherapy + topical steroids
Because each keloid is unique, custom plans deliver better, longer-lasting results
What to Expect During Your Consultation
At Lumine Dermatology, your comfort comes first. Here’s how it works:
- Thorough skin analysis: We assess the keloid type, size, cause, and skin tone.
- Detailed treatment discussion: You’ll learn all the available options, pros and cons, costs, and healing times.
- Personalised treatment plan: Based on your needs, we craft a plan combining proven medical treatments and post-care guidance.
No pressure. Just expert advice and clear expectations.
Results Timeline: How Soon Will You See a Difference?
Results depend on the treatment type and keloid size, but here’s a general guide:
- Injections: Visible reduction in 4–6 weeks
- Laser: Texture and colour improve in 1–3 sessions
- Cryotherapy: Shrinking after 2–4 rounds
- Surgery: Flattened appearance once healing completes
Note: Keloid removal is gradual, not instant. And recurrence is always a risk. But with consistent care and professional follow-up, results can be long-lasting.
Why Choose Lumine Dermatology for Keloid Removal in Singapore?
We get it—treating skin scars is about more than looks. It’s about confidence, comfort, and control.
Here’s why our patients trust us:
- Ministry of Health -accredited dermatologists with deep experience in scar treatment
- Modern lasers and medical-grade technology
- Tailored treatment plans based on your skin type and history
- Safe, clinically-backed methods for real results
- A warm, discreet clinic environment that respects your privacy
Whether your scar is new or decades old—we can help.
Ready to Treat Your Keloid Scars?
Scars don’t define you. But they can affect how you feel.
At Lumine Dermatology, we offer more than just treatment. We offer support, expertise, and results that respect your skin’s unique story.
Don’t wait for it to get worse. Book your consultation today and discover how professional keloid removal can restore your skin—and your peace of mind.
👉 Contact Lumine Dermatology now to schedule your personalised keloid scar assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Keloid Removal Painful?
Some treatments involve mild discomfort, like a pinch from an injection or heat from a laser. We use anaesthetic cream to reduce sensitivity where needed.
Will the Keloid Come Back After Treatment?
There’s always a risk of recurrence, especially with surgical removal. That’s why we often combine multiple treatment methods and provide ongoing aftercare to reduce the chance of it returning.
How Much Does Keloid Removal in Singapore Cost?
Costs vary based on the type of treatment, number of sessions, and keloid size. A detailed quote will be provided during your first consultation.
Can You Treat Keloids From Acne or Piercings?
Yes. We frequently treat acne scars, earlobe keloids from piercings, and surgical scars. The treatment plan will be customised based on the cause and area.
Is Laser Therapy Safe for Dark Skin Tones?
Yes. At Lumine Dermatology, we use advanced laser systems that are safe and effective for all skin tones, including darker skin.
How Long Does Each Treatment Session Take?
Most sessions are quick—15 to 30 minutes—depending on the type of treatment and area covered.
Can I Go Back to Work Right After the Treatment?
In most cases, yes. Downtime is minimal, though you might experience slight redness or tenderness for a short time.
Dr Evelyn Tay
FRCP (Edinburgh), FAMS (Dermatology)
