Are You Genetically Prone to Keloids? Here’s How to Know

Have you ever noticed a scar that just won’t stop growing—long after the wound has healed? Maybe it started as a pimple or a pierced earlobe, but over time, it thickened, darkened, and spread beyond the original spot. If this sounds familiar, you may be prone to keloids.

These seem to appear out of nowhere after the most minor injuries. But here’s what’s often overlooked: keloid formation can run in families.

In this article, we’ll explore how genetics influence keloid development, signs that you might be predisposed and keloid treatment options in Singapore—especially if you’re planning surgical procedures or have a history of scarring.

What Are Keloids?

Keloids are raised, thickened scars that grow beyond the original boundaries of a wound or injury. Unlike typical scars that fade and flatten over time, keloids can continue to grow for weeks or even months after the initial injury has healed. They may appear shiny, smooth, and vary in color from pink to dark brown, depending on your skin tone.

It’s important to distinguish keloids from hypertrophic scars. While both are raised and may feel firm to the touch, hypertrophic scars remain confined to the original wound area and may gradually improve over time. Keloids, however, extend beyond the original injury site and usually don’t regress unless treated.

The Genetic Link to Keloids

While anyone can develop a keloid, certain populations are more genetically predisposed. Individuals with darker skin tones—including those of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent—are more likely to develop keloids.

A family history of keloids is another major risk factor. Around one-third of people who get keloids, for instance, have a first-degree blood relative who gets the condition, too. If your parents or siblings have developed keloids, your chances of forming one after a skin injury are significantly higher. Scientists believe certain gene variations may affect the body’s response to collagen production, leading to an overgrowth of scar tissue. These genes affect people’s immune response, extracellular matrix regulation and fibroblast proliferation, and in turn, contribute to keloid formation.

Signs You Might Be Prone to Keloids

Wondering if you fall into the high-risk category? Here are a few signs that you might be genetically prone to keloids:

• Keloids from minor injuries: If you’ve noticed thick, raised scars developing from acne, insect bites, or small cuts, your skin may be more reactive than average.
  
• Scars from piercings or surgery: If your ears developed keloids after piercing, or you’ve seen unusual scar growth after surgery, this could point to a genetic predisposition.
  
• Family history of keloids: Having one or more close relatives with keloids increases your likelihood of developing them too.

Common Body Areas Affected by Keloids

Keloids can form anywhere, but some body parts are more prone due to skin tension, friction and higher collagen activity. The most common areas include:

• Chest: Frequently affected by acne or minor injuries that lead to keloids.
  
• Shoulders, Knees and Elbows: A common site due to unavoidable movement and skin tension that stimulates overhealing, as with friction from clothing or bags.
  
• Earlobes: High-risk area for keloids, especially after ear piercings.
  
• Upper back: Acne-prone area that often results in keloid scarring.
  
• Jawline and Peri-Oral Areas: Keloids can develop along the jawline after shaving nicks or acne. Additionally, peri-oral areas (areas around the mouth) are also common sites for keloid formation, particularly following mole removals.

When to See a Doctor About Keloids

Many people ignore their keloids or assume nothing can be done. But there are clear situations where a doctor’s help can make a difference:

• If a scar keeps growing: Normal scars stop developing after a few weeks. Continued growth may indicate a keloid.
  
• Before cosmetic procedures: If you're planning piercings, plastic surgery, or even minor skin treatments, consult a doctor.
  
• To explore treatment options: If your keloid is painful, itchy, or causing emotional distress, a doctor can guide you through safe and effective treatments.

Treatment Options for Existing Keloids

The treatment your doctor recommends will depend on your keloid’s size and location, and your skin’s response to previous treatments.

• Laser Therapy: Targets the pigment and texture of keloids to reduce redness and flatten the scar over multiple sessions.
  
• Radiofrequency Ablation: Radiofrequency energy is absorbed by water in skin cells, leading to tissue vaporisation or coagulation. It can be used to cut or shrink keloid tissue, or to target deeper parts of a keloid via insulated needles—minimising surface damage and reducing downtime.
  
• Keloid Removal Surgery: For large or mature keloids, surgical excision may be necessary. Techniques include full thickness extra-lesional excision and intralesional flaps. Surgical tools like the ultrapulse CO₂ laser or high-frequency RF can help reduce keloid recurrence by cutting and coagulating simultaneously.
  
• Intralesional Steroid Injections: Corticosteroids suppress inflammation and collagen production within the scar. These injections are often used alone or alongside laser or surgery, though care must be taken to avoid side effects like skin thinning or sunken scars.
  
• Neurotoxin Injections (e.g., BTX): Used to reduce pain, itchiness, and keloid size—especially when combined with steroids. It offers fewer side effects and can be particularly helpful for symptom control.

At 1Aesthetics, Dr Wan has found that using a combination of treatments—such as lasers, surgery and injections—often improves results. It also lowers the chance of the keloid coming back. In contrast, using just one method (like injections alone) usually takes longer, may not work as well for bigger or tougher keloids, and carries a higher risk of recurrence. 

Get Keloid Treatment in Singapore with 1Aesthetics

If you’re dealing with keloids or concerned about developing them, a consultation with a doctor can give you the peace of mind you need. At 1Aesthetics we understand the genetic and lifestyle factors behind keloid formation. We’ll work closely with you to create a customised treatment and prevention plan—so you can feel confident about your skin again.Don’t wait for keloids to grow larger or more difficult to treat. Book a consultation for keloid treatment in Singapore.