Scars, while not necessarily desirable, are a natural expression of the human body’s healing process. As a matter of fact, it is kind of incredible how our bodies are self-healing machines. While severe damage may require a bit more extensive treatment, many surface-level cuts, burns, and even scrapes can heal back to normal if
properly cared for. Still, sometimes scars may develop in a bulbous and unsightly manner, causing us to feel less confident in our own skin. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX spa therapists discuss the causes and side effects of keloids, as well as what steps you can take to look and feel your best.
What Exactly is a Keloid?
Whether you are aware of it or not, there are actually several types of scars. For the sake of this blog, a scar is considered to be a mark that is left on the skin following a wound or injury that has completely healed. When you scrape your knee and break the skin, it may scab over in an effort to protect the wound from outside bacteria and harm, as well as to promote proper healing. You often hear that it is important you do not pick at scabs, as doing so will increase your risks of developing a scar.
Some common types of scars include normal fine-line scars, hypertrophic scars, pitted or sunken scars, scar contractures, and keloid scars. Taking a look at the latter finish, a keloid is considered to be an overgrowth of tissue that occurs when too much collagen is produced at the wound site. It is a thick, raised scar that can form on the shoulders, earlobes, cheeks, or chest. For more information about this process, give our team a call today.
What it Means for Your Health
On the face, a scar is the result of a physical injury that can continue to impact your physical abilities. For example, a keloid scar that has formed on a joint such as your elbow or knee might restrict movement in the area.
In addition to physical effects, keloid scars can have an impact on your psychological health too. After all, a keloid can be particularly distressing, especially if it forms on your face or somewhere readily noticeable by the public. Part of feeling our best is looking our best, and when we do not feel comfortable with a noticeable keloid on the body, it can lead to mental health concerns such as depression and a dip in self-esteem. Learn more by giving our office a call today.
Symptoms and Side Effects
When a keloid scar develops, what is occurring is that it is continuing to grow, even after the wound has healed. They are raised and can appear as the same color or darker as the surrounding skin, red, or even pink. What’s more? They can be itchy or painful, and they can restrict movement if they occur on or around a joint such as the elbow or the knee. Contact our team to learn more.
Scar Treatment
The truth of the matter is that complete scar removal is not wholly possible. Fortunately, most scars fade over time. In addition to natural healing processes, a keloid can be treated with a variety of options. For example, pressure dressings applied during the healing process can help reduce a scar and prevent it from forming or returning. Other options include steroid medications, topical silicone sheets or gels, makeup, surgery, and of course, scar therapy.
Always Consult With Your Doctor
While you may have sought professional treatment for an injury, a keloid can still form. When you notice one, be sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible, as early treatment can help minimize growth. If you are looking to treat a keloid that you have had for a while, make sure to reach out to a skin specialist to learn your best options.
Post-Operation Scar Therapy
In addition to medical care and the treatment options listed previously, you can pursue scar therapy treatment. These post-op options may consist of microneedling, thermal wraps, or even body contouring. Make sure you ask your skin specialist prior to receiving treatment, however, as it is important to seek care that will specifically address your needs.
Speak With Our Team
Contact TNS Med Spa in Dallas, TX by calling 972-992-7422 to learn more about scar therapy for keloid-type scars, and schedule your next appointment with our team today.
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