How to Get Rid of a Keloid on the Ear
A keloid is a scar made of cartilage and forms as a result of an infection. A keloid scar is especially common on the ear due to infections from ear-piercing. Keloid symptoms include pain and itchiness on the scar, as well as a noticeable change in skin texture around the keloid. Keloid scars generally appear darker and shinier than normal skin, but can also be red or pink in color. Although it is certainly possible to treat a keloid, be aware that it is a possibility that not all keloid remedies will work for you.
Step 1
Use a scar-reducing cream, such as Mederma; it contains allium cepa, an ingredient that works well to treat most keloid scars. Apply a thin layer of Mederma or another scar-reducing cream you like better on your keloid twice each day after you have bathed or washed this area. Rub the cream into your skin with your fingertips until it is completely absorbed.
Step 2
Apply a scar-reducing dressing (a cloth covering you can apply to a wound for healing and protection) such as Dermatix to your keloid. You can buy scar-reducing dressings from your local drugstore. Be aware that you might experience some itchiness from keeping the scar-reducing dressing over your keloid. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, you should keep your keloid covered for 23 out of 24 hours a day.
Step 3
Consult your doctor to give you an injection of corticosteroids to help decrease swelling and enhance the overall appearance of your keloid scar. Be aware that you might need two or three corticosteroid injections in order to treat larger keloid scars.
Step 4
Consider getting laser treatment for your keloid. Understand that though laser treatment will not decrease the overall size of the scar, it can smooth it out and help make it less noticeable. Check to see if your insurance covers this treatment if your dermatologist recommends it. Laser treatment is expensive.
Things You'll Need
Scar-reducing cream
Scar-reducing dressing
Tip
Dermatix is made of silicone gel. Placing Dermatix dressings over your keloid for a period of several weeks can dramatically decrease its size and appearance. It is important to remember that this type of dressing can only be left on for 23 hours at a time, so you must change the dressing once a day after taking it off. The sooner you treat a keloid on your ear, the more likely you will be able to rid yourself of it.
Warning
If you have a severe infection or bleeding on or around your keloid scar, visit your doctor right away. Signs of a severe infection include swelling or thick green, yellow or white-grey pus or redness around the keloid.
