when skin is injured, fibrous tissue called scar tissue forms over the wound to repair and protect the injury. in some cases, extra scar tissue grows, forming smooth, hard growths called keloids.
keloids can be much larger than the original wound. they’re most commonly found on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks. however, keloids can affect any part of the body.
although keloids aren’t harmful to your health, they may create cosmetic concerns.
keloids come from the overgrowth of scar tissue.
keloid scars tend to be larger than the original wound itself. they may take weeks or months to develop fully.
the symptoms of a keloid can include:
a localized area that is flesh-colored, pink, or red
a lumpy or ridged area of skin that’s usually raised
an area that continues to grow larger with scar tissue over time
an itchy patch of skin