Q I have keloids — can scratching or pressing them make them worse? What precautions should I take?
A Keloids can grow larger in response to physical stimulation (scratching, pressing, friction), so the affected area should be irritated as little as possible. For areas prone to sweating and friction (chest, shoulders, back), wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize irritation, and UV protection is also important as UV rays worsen pigmentation and inflammation. Never incise or squeeze keloids yourself, as this greatly increases the risk of infection and worsening.
Detailed Answer
If unnecessary stimulation is applied to a keloid, fibroblast proliferation can be reactivated, causing it to grow larger. Specifically, for ear piercing sites, stop wearing jewelry or use silicone earplugs to apply pressure, and chest or back keloids must wear a pressure garment for at least 6 months after surgery to suppress recurrence. UV exposure can make the keloid area red and intensify itching, so UV protection is important.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, when stimulation is repeatedly applied to the keloid area, local blood stasis (瘀Blood) becomes more fixed and treatment becomes difficult. When applying plaster (膏劑) external treatment, apply lightly by patting rather than rubbing hard, and acupuncture stimulation is done shallowly at the inner boundary of the affected area to prevent new wound formation. If redness, heat, and discharge accompany the keloid area, there is a possibility of infection, so an immediate clinic visit for evaluation is necessary.
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