When is a scar that has grown bigger a sign of a keloid?

Keloids are overgrown scar formations on the skin. When your skin is cut open, your body repairs the damage by sending cells to the wound to form a scar, a kind of natural protective patch. However, in some people the body gets carried away and builds a very large scar. Keloids are more common in certain people, including:

• adolescents going through puberty
• blacks, Latinos, and Asians
• pregnant women

Keloids are harmless but can be a cosmetic concern. Doctors have several techniques that can help flatten keloids, including injections, laser therapy, and freezing the scar. If you are prone to developing keloids, you may want to think twice about having body parts pierced or getting a tattoo. If you need surgery, tell your doctor if you tend to develop keloids.