Keloid scar, growths after a piercing: How to treat them?

The appearance of a keloid scar or bump after a piercing is common, but don't worry, there are solutions. Find out in this article how to prevent these reactions and how to treat them.

What is a keloid scar?

A keloid is an excessive skin reaction that forms long after the initial healing of the piercing. In fact, it does not form immediately after the piercing act, but rather months or even a year after the piercing. A keloid can be pink, red, or brown, and can be itchy, as well as painful.

On the other hand, if a bump appears shortly after a piercing, it is probably scar hypertrophy. These bumps are also raised, but unlike keloids, they usually do not extend beyond the initially affected area. They may be red and irritated, but with time and proper care, they can diminish.

The difference between a keloid and a bump.

Keloids and bumps are often confused. While keloid scar are thick scars, bumps are usually smaller, red, and may appear around your piercing or other piercing areas.

The term "bump" refers to any small mass or lump on the skin or tissue that appears abnormal. It may be a wart, mole, polyp, or any other type of lump or mass. Some bumps are harmless, while others may be worrisome or require medical attention.

Why are we likely to have them?

Despite being a stylish and fashionable adornment, piercings can sometimes lead to complications. But why do these little bumps appear? Let's dive into the main reasons together.

• Repeated trauma: Whether it's from playing with your jewelry, accidentally snagging it with a comb, or changing it too often, repeated trauma can irritate the pierced area. This constant irritation can stimulate the skin to produce more scar tissue, leading to complications.
• Poor piercing technique: An inexperienced professional or poor technique can further damage the tissues, thus increasing the risk of scarring complications. Always choose a reputable piercing studio with qualified professionals for your piercing.
• Sleeping: Sleeping on your ear right after you've received a cartilage piercing can put constant pressure on the newly pierced area. This pressure can not only delay the healing process, but also increase the risk of bumps and keloids.
• Allergic reactions: Your piercing may be to blame. If you're allergic to nickel or other metals, your skin may react by developing a bump. That's why it's crucial to choose hypoallergenic materials like ASTM-F136 titanium or 14- and 18-karat gold.
• Infections: If the pierced area is not cleaned properly or the jewelry is contaminated, bacteria can enter, leading to infection. Untreated or poorly managed infections can encourage keloid formation.
• Genetic factors: As mentioned above, if members of your family have already had keloids, you may be more prone to developing them. It's not a death sentence, but it does mean you need to be doubly cautious and pay attention to piercing aftercare.

How to prevent keloids and growths?

Metal Choice: ASTM-F136 Titanium and 14/18K Gold. Your choice of piercing metal is crucial. ASTM-F136 implant grade titanium and 14/18K gold are superior choices. These materials are body friendly, hypoallergenic, and life-long!

ASTM-F136 Titanium: An Ideal Metal for Your Piercing Jewelry

Titanium is one of the most commonly used metals for healing piercings. Titanium is one of the highest quality materials you can put in your body, it is hypoallergenic and has a metal purity that makes it perfect for almost everyone. Therefore, it is the benchmark when it comes to piercings.

Please note that only ASTM-F136 grade of titanium is considered implantable for your piercings; some low-quality suppliers distribute different grades of very low quality that contain nickel.

14 and 18 carat gold: a high-end metal

14K gold piercing jewelry combines elegance and strength. Known as “585/1000 gold,” 14K gold has several advantages for piercings. Its composition, 58.5% pure gold mixed with 41.5% other metals, makes it durable and life-resistant. Although less expensive than 18K gold due to its lower pure gold content, 14K gold offers great flexibility in design thanks to its malleability. Nickel-free, it is skin-friendly, hypoallergenic, and prevents inflammation and irritation.

On the other hand, 18-carat gold, also known as "750/1000 gold", represents a compromise between purity, strength and beauty. Highly prized for piercing jewellery, it is distinguished by its high pure gold content, i.e. 75%, which gives the jewellery a deep golden hue. Although its premium quality comes at a price, it embodies elegance and durability.

Good habits after getting a piercing.

• Cleaning: This is the most important step. Getting a new piercing requires strict hygiene to avoid any risks. Make sure you have all the necessary tools for optimal cleaning. Use sterile gauze, saline solution or iodine-free saline solution, and antibacterial soap to effectively clean your hands.

• Avoid antiseptic products and harsh products like alcohol for cleaning, and be careful about the shampoos you use. Avoid touching and picking at scabs – our hands are often full of bacteria. Avoid touching or playing with your ear piercing, even while cleaning, to minimize the risk of keloids. Then, make sure not to pick at any scabs that appear – it's best to let them fall off on their own.

• Precautions while sleeping: As mentioned above, constantly sleeping on the pierced area can cause pressure. Possibly use a travel pillow to protect your ear while sleeping.

Have a suitable piercing jewelry.

Choosing a piercing accessory that is suitable for your ear, belly button, etc., is essential. Make sure it does not move excessively or is too tight to prevent chafing. Avoid replacing this item before healing is complete.

How to care for a keloid: The steps.

Discovering a keloid or growth around your piercing can be cause for concern, but don't panic! With the right methods and a little patience, you can treat and, in many cases, completely resolve the problem. Here are the steps to follow to care for your piercing:

• Initial assessment: Before taking any action, assess the extent of the growth. If it is small and recent, you can try home treatments. If it is large, painful or persistent, consult a professional.

• Gentle Cleansing and Sterile Compress: Follow up by cleaning the area with saline solution or saline solution. This noninvasive method helps prevent further infection while promoting healing of the skin around your piercing. Soak a portion of your sterile compress with your saline solution or saline solution. Apply it directly to the keloid for 5 to 10 minutes, twice a day. This can help reduce swelling and soothe the area.

• Avoid irritating metals: Make sure your piercing jewelry is high quality, such as ASTM-F136 titanium or 14- and 18-karat gold. Lower quality metals can make an existing keloid worse.

• Gels and Creams: There are silicone gels and creams formulated specifically to treat keloids. They help reduce the size of the keloid and improve the appearance of the skin. Consult your doctor or piercer. Always follow the product instructions.

• Medical Consultation: If your keloid doesn't respond to home treatments after a few weeks, it's time to see a dermatologist or piercing professional. They can offer solutions such as corticosteroid injections, cryotherapy, or other more specialized treatments.

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