So you scrape your skin, and instead of a small, unassuming scar, a raised, lumpy mass forms. Keloid scars are a different breed. Unlike typical scars that fade over time, keloids tend to take their time. They extend beyond the original wound, growing into raised, sometimes shiny, masses.

Keloid scars can cause physical and emotional discomfort for individuals across the globe. The good news is that Singapore offers many effective keloid treatment options to combat these bothersome scars.

Let’s get dipper into the world of keloid treatment in Singapore, exploring the latest advancements, innovative techniques, and trusted medical professionals that can help you on your journey towards scar-free skin.

Who Usually Develops Keloids?

In Singapore, where diverse ethnicities and skin types converge, keloid scars have become a common concern for many. While anyone can develop a keloid, they are most commonly observed in individuals under 30.

Moreover, certain ethnic groups, such as Black people, Asians, and Hispanics, are more susceptible to keloid formation. This might be attributed to genetic factors, as keloids often run in families. But that’s not all, other factors come into play too. For instance, trauma to the skin, like surgical incisions, piercings, or burns, can trigger keloid formation.

As we delve deeper into available keloid treatments in Singapore, it becomes evident that they affect a diverse range of people, highlighting the significance of raising awareness and seeking appropriate keloid treatment.

Available Keloid Treatment in Singapore

Several effective treatments are now available to address keloids, especially when they are still in their early stages.

Silicone Gel Sheeting
Silicone gel sheets have emerged as a popular and non-invasive treatment for new keloid scars.

By applying these sheets directly on the affected area, you create a moist environment that helps soften and flatten the scar over time.

The sheets can be easily worn under clothing and are typically recommended for several months to achieve optimal results.

Corticosteroid Injections
One of the most common approaches for treating keloids is corticosteroid injections.

These injections help reduce inflammation and prevent excessive collagen production, which contributes to the formation of keloids.

Dermatologists usually administer a series of injections directly into the scar, typically spaced a few weeks apart. This treatment can help flatten and soften the keloid, providing noticeable improvements.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid scar using liquid nitrogen. The excess collagen is destroyed by subjecting the scar tissue to extreme cold, leading to a reduction in size and thickness. Multiple cryotherapy sessions may be required, and some mild discomfort or blistering may occur, but the results can be quite impressive.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatment has revolutionized scar management and is also a promising option for keloid scars.

Different types of lasers, such as pulsed-dye or fractional lasers, can target and break down the excess collagen in the scar tissue.

Laser therapy helps flatten and gradually fade the keloid with minimal downtime and a relatively low risk of side effects.

Surgical Excision

For larger or more complex keloids, surgical excision may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the keloid surgically and closing the wound with sutures.

Experts usually use corticosteroid injections or radiation therapy may after surgery to prevent recurrence.

While surgical excision carries a small risk of new keloid formation, it can significantly improve the scar’s size and appearance.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is often used with surgical excision or as a standalone keloid treatment. Low-dose radiation helps reduce collagen production and control the growth of abnormal scar tissue.

It is usually administered over several sessions, and patients need to follow safety precautions to minimize radiation exposure.

Radiation therapy shows promising results, especially for difficult-to-treat keloids.

Emerging Keloid Treatments

A study listed new keloid treatments that offer new possibilities.

However, further research and clinical trials are needed to determine their effectiveness, safety, and long-term outcomes.

Anti-hypertensive pharmaceuticals
Medications like ACE inhibitors (lisinopril, ramipril, enalapril) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (losartan) have shown potential in reducing keloid scars by inhibiting collagen production and promoting wound healing.

Verapamil

A calcium antagonist that can be injected into keloids, reducing scar thickness, vascularity, and size. It is often used in combination with other treatments for good results.

Botulinum toxin A

Injections of this toxin can decrease scar proliferation by relaxing muscles, reducing fibroblast activity, and modulating the expression of certain growth factors.

It has shown promising results in improving keloid symptoms and reducing scar volume.

Calcineurin inhibitors
Medications like tacrolimus and sirolimus inhibit fibroblast activity and collagen production in keloids.

They have been used topically and orally to treat keloids and other skin disorders.

Doxorubicin

This chemotherapy drug may have potential in treating keloids by inhibiting fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis.

However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.

Electrical stimulation
Innovative devices like the Fenzian system use electrical waves to treat keloids and hypertrophic scars.

They have shown promising results in reducing scar symptoms, but further studies are required.

Microneedle physical contact

Microneedles, tiny needles that penetrate the skin, are being explored for the delivery of keloid treatments. They have shown potential in reducing keloid volume and inhibiting fibroblast proliferation.

Choosing a Skilled Doctor for Keloid Treatment

Keloid treatment in Singapore offers a promising range of options for individuals seeking relief from the physical and emotional burdens caused by these scars.

You can confidently achieve smooth, scar-free skin by exploring keloid treatment modalities.

But remember, finding a skilled dermatologist for keloid scar treatment in Singapore is crucial for effective and safe outcomes.

Dr. Ang Chee Beng is an experienced dermatologist specializing in various skin and hair-related problems, with extensive training and qualifications from reputable institutions.

He emphasizes personalized care and takes the time to educate patients about their conditions and available treatment options.

With his expertise and dedication, Dr. Ang ensures that each patient receives tailored solutions and the highest standard of care. Book your appointment here.