Keloids are darkened, raised scars that can develop on top of skin injuries such as acne, piercings, wounds or burns. Although keloids are typically harmless, they can be unsightly. There are several ways to reduce and even remove keloids.

Cortisone Injections

Injections of cortisteroid can help flatten and reduce the size of keloids. However, these injections can stimulate blood vessels at the site of the keloid, causing the scar to darken.

Silicone Dressings

When applied to the skin for several hours per day, silicone gel sheets and compression dressings can shrink keloids over time. Silicone increases the temperature of the wound site to stimulate the production of collagen, which increases skin elasticity and promotes healing.

Cryosurgery

Using liquid nitrogen to damage scar tissue, cryosurgery, essentially, freezes away keloids. Although this treatment is effective at reducing lumpiness, it can darken the site of the keloid.

Surgery

Some keloids can be surgically removed, but in some cases, cutting into a keloid can cause an even larger keloid to form. This risk can be mitigated by post-surgery cortisone injections, pressure dressings or radiation therapy.

Radiation Therapy

Especially when combined with surgery, electric-beam radiation can help decrease the size of keloids.

Laser

Generally safe and effective, pulsed-eye laser treatments can level and lessen the appearance of keloids. Several treatments are necessary to reduce keloids significantly.

Source:

MedicineNet.com: Keloid

MedlinePlus: Keloids

eMedicine.com: Wound Healing, Keloids