Tattoo keloids are raised scars that occur in some people due to overproduction of scar tissue during the healing process. It is unclear why some people develop keloids, but those who have previously developed them should avoid getting multiple tattoos. Removing keloids is difficult, and treatments such as corticosteroid injections, silicone dressing, and pressure therapy may help. The best way to avoid tattoo keloids is not to get tattooed, especially if you have previously developed keloids after any type of skin injury.
A tattoo keloid is basically a raised scar at the site of a tattoo that occurs in some people due to an overproduction of scar tissue as the tattoo heals. It is not known what causes some people to form keloids while others don’t. A person who has previously developed keloids should avoid getting multiple tattoos.
The process of tattooing, which is the placement of an image or symbol on the skin of the body, should only be done by a trained person, under sterile conditions. It involves using a needle to insert ink into the bottom layer of skin, or dermis, marking it permanently. Depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo you choose, the process can take anywhere from a few minutes to many hours and can involve multiple punctures into the skin.
The process of wound healing and scar formation involves numerous processes within the skin, both build-up and anabolic, and breakdown or catabolic. A good balance must be maintained so that the resulting scar is as inconspicuous as possible. In the case of a tattoo keloid, or any keloid after an injury, this balance is off and results in an excess of fibrous tissue extending over and around the injury area which can be disfiguring.
Removing a keloid is not easy and may not be complete. You will need to see a doctor, probably from a plastic surgeon; they will recommend the treatment that may have the best effect based on the severity and location of the tattoo keloid. Excision, or trimming of the scar, generally leads to re-formation of the keloid, but in combination with intralesional corticosteroid injection, it may heal more successfully.
Intralesional injection of a corticosteroid alone—that is, injecting it directly into the keloid of the tattoo—may be effective. Using the silicone dressing over the keloid and pressure therapy can also help resolve a keloid. Other treatments that may be effective include laser therapy, cryotherapy, and possibly light therapy. Often, however, the keloid cannot be completely removed.
The best way to avoid tattoo keloids is not to get tattooed. A person who has previously developed keloid after any type of skin injury is not advised to get a tattoo as they are more likely to develop keloid after getting a tattoo. If you experience unusual scarring after a tattoo, see a doctor right away.
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