Keloid scars can be a source of self-consciousness and discomfort for many individuals. These raised, thickened scars can form after trauma, surgery, or even minor skin injuries. If you’re seeking a solution to reduce the appearance of keloid scars, microneedling may offer an effective treatment option.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how microneedling can help address keloid scars, its benefits, procedure, potential risks, and more.
Table of Contents
Understanding Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are a type of abnormal scar formation that extends beyond the boundaries of the original wound. Unlike normal scars that gradually fade over time, keloid scars can become larger, raised, and continue to grow even after the wound has healed. These scars result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, leading to excessive scar tissue formation.
The Benefits of Microneedling for Keloid Scars
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves the use of a small device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. When performed on keloid scars, microneedling offers several potential benefits:
Stimulation of Collagen Production
Microneedling triggers the body’s natural healing response, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin fibers. This process helps to remodel the scar tissue, leading to improved texture and reduced visibility of keloid scars.
Enhanced Penetration of Topical Treatments
The microchannels created by microneedling allow for better absorption of topical treatments. By combining microneedling with targeted skincare products, such as vitamin C serums or silicone gels, the effectiveness of these treatments in reducing keloid scars can be enhanced.
The Microneedling Procedure for Keloid Scars
The microneedling procedure for keloid scars typically involves the following steps:
Consultation
Before undergoing microneedling, it is important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or skincare professional. They will assess your keloid scars, evaluate your skin type, and determine if microneedling is a suitable treatment option for you.
Preparation
On the day of the procedure, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed, and a topical numbing cream may be applied to ensure your comfort during the treatment.
Microneedling Treatment
The skincare professional will use a specialized microneedling device to create controlled micro-injuries in the keloid scar tissue. The depth of the needles will be adjusted based on the scar severity and location. The procedure is typically well-tolerated, and any discomfort is minimized due to the numbing cream.
Post-Treatment Care
After the microneedling session, your skin may appear slightly red and feel sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. Your skincare professional will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding sun exposure, applying a soothing serum or moisturizer, and avoiding harsh skincare products for a few days.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While microneedling is generally safe for most individuals, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and considerations, especially when treating keloid scars:
Skin Sensitivity
Individuals with highly sensitive skin may experience more pronounced redness, swelling, or irritation following microneedling. It’s crucial to discuss your skin type and any sensitivities with your skincare professional beforehand to ensure the procedure is suitable for you.
Infection
As with any skin-penetrating procedure, there is a minimal risk of infection. To minimize this risk, it’s important to follow the post-treatment care instructions provided by your skincare professional. They may recommend avoiding swimming pools, hot tubs, or other potential sources of bacteria until the skin has fully healed.
Hyperpigmentation
Individuals with darker skin tones may be at a slightly higher risk of developing temporary hyperpigmentation after microneedling. This occurs when the skin produces excess melanin in response to the procedure. However, this typically resolves on its own over time.
Multiple Sessions
While some improvement in keloid scars can be seen after a single microneedling session, multiple sessions are often recommended for optimal results. Your skincare professional will develop a customized treatment plan based on the severity of your keloid scars and your skin’s response to the procedure.
Other Treatment Options for Keloid Scars
In addition to microneedling, there are other treatment options available for keloid scars. These may include:
Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections can help flatten and soften keloid scars. This treatment is often used in combination with other therapies to reduce scar size and improve texture.
Silicone Sheets or Gels
Silicone sheets or gels are applied directly to the keloid scars to help soften and flatten the tissue. They can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid scar with liquid nitrogen to reduce its size and thickness. This procedure is typically performed by a dermatologist and may require multiple sessions.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses focused beams of light to target and break down scar tissue. This can help improve the appearance of keloid scars and promote collagen remodeling.
Conclusion
Microneedling is a promising treatment option for keloid scars, offering potential benefits such as collagen stimulation and enhanced penetration of topical treatments. By undergoing microneedling sessions under the guidance of a qualified skincare professional, individuals with keloid scars can improve the texture and visibility of their scars.
However, it’s important to consider the potential risks and discuss them with your skincare professional to ensure the procedure is suitable for you. Additionally, other treatment options like steroid injections, silicone sheets, cryotherapy, and laser therapy can be explored based on your individual needs and preferences.
Remember, each individual’s response to treatment may vary, and it’s crucial to consult with a skincare professional to determine the most suitable approach for your keloid scars. With the right treatment plan, you can take a step towards reducing the appearance of keloid scars and achieving smoother, more confident skin.
Rebecca is a licensed aesthetician and certified laser technician with almost 15 years experience in the dermatology. Her life-long passion is making people look good and happy.