Keloids are a distinct type of scar that extend beyond the original boundary of a skin injury, creating a raised and thickened appearance. Unlike flat scars, they continue to grow over time instead of stabilizing. People searching for solutions like Keloid Treatment In Dubai often notice this unusual texture first. The elevated look can vary in firmness and color, making keloids visually and physically different from typical scar tissue.
How the Skin Responds to Injury
When skin experiences trauma, it naturally attempts to repair itself. In some individuals, this response becomes excessive, leading to an overgrowth of scar tissue. Rather than stopping once the wound is closed, the skin keeps building layers, which causes the scar to rise above the surrounding area. This persistent repair response contributes to the thickened structure commonly seen in keloids.
Role of Collagen Accumulation
Collagen is essential for skin strength and structure, but in keloids, it accumulates in dense clusters. Instead of forming a smooth layer, the buildup becomes uneven and bulky. This dense concentration causes the scar to feel firm and appear swollen. Over time, repeated collagen layering adds volume, which explains why keloids often look raised compared to normal scars.
Why Keloids Feel Firm to the Touch
The firmness of keloids comes from tightly packed tissue beneath the surface. This compact structure limits flexibility, making the scar feel harder than surrounding skin. As the tissue thickens, it loses the softness typical of healed skin. The dense texture not only affects appearance but also contributes to the noticeable elevation that sets keloids apart from flatter scars.
Influence of Skin Tension on Thickness
Areas of the body that experience frequent movement or stretching are more likely to develop thicker keloids. Constant tension can encourage continued scar growth, reinforcing the raised form. This is why keloids often appear more prominent on regions like shoulders or chest. The ongoing pull on healing skin supports the formation of bulkier, more elevated scars.
Common Triggers That Encourage Keloid Growth
- Minor cuts or abrasions that heal slowly
- Acne-related skin damage
- Piercings in high-movement areas
- Surgical incisions under tension
- Repeated irritation of healing skin
Differences Between Keloids and Other Scars
Keloids differ from hypertrophic or flat scars in both behavior and appearance. While other scars may eventually soften or fade, keloids maintain their raised profile. Their growth beyond the original wound edge adds to their thick look. This distinct pattern makes them more noticeable and explains why they are often described as bulky or overgrown compared to typical scars.
Areas of the Body Prone to Raised Keloids
- Upper chest
- Shoulders
- Earlobes
- Upper back
- Jawline
Why Keloids Continue to Appear Enlarged
Keloids do not follow the usual stopping point of scar development. Instead, they maintain a prolonged growth phase that keeps adding tissue. This ongoing expansion increases thickness and height over time. Even without new injury, the scar can remain elevated, giving the impression that it is still active and growing long after the skin has healed.
Final Thoughts
Keloids tend to be raised and thickened because of persistent scar growth, dense tissue formation, and the skin’s ongoing response to injury. Their firm texture and elevated shape result from layered buildup rather than normal healing. Understanding why they look this way helps clarify how they differ from other scars and why their appearance can remain prominent for years.
