Keloids

My friend has keloids on her chest. Cryotherapy, laser or plastic surgery?

Keloids happen when your skin doesn’t realise it has healed and continues to grow much larger than the original wound, often to the extent that it is painful. Once started, it can continue to grow for months and even years.

Cryotherapy may help small keloids. My first line treatment of choice is intralesional corticosteroid injections because it is cost effective in softens/ shrinks the scar and reduces the pain. Patient often feel much better after the very first injection. I usually encourage patient to use silicone sheets and do scar massages at home. If the location allows, wearing pressure garment is a great adjunct.

Ablative and non-ablative lasers can help to reduce the height and redness.
 
Surgical removal (especially on the chest) has nearly 100% recurrence rate and is only used in combination with other treatment modalities.

My scar did not heal well

My first surgical scar healed well but the second surgical scar doesn’t. Why?

Many factors could affect scar formation.
1. The site of less tension (less tightness) tends to heal better e.g. inner arm vs. shoulder
2. The site of better blood supply heals better, e.g. face vs. feet
3. The doctor’s skill
4. Patient factors, e.g smoking, diabetes, genetics
5. Timing of stitch removal, hygiene, absence of infection and good wound care etc.

How do minimise scar after surgery / injury?
 
1. Keep the area dry especially the first few days.
2. Keep the area clean.
3. Allow the wound to "breathe".
4. Consider silicone adhesive dressing.
5. Minimise movement of the area (avoid pulling or tugging on the wound)
6. If there is risk of infection, consider the use of antiseptics. Consult your doctor if there is a need for antibiotics if the wound is weepy, changing colour or foul smelling.
7. If it forms a scab, do not pick on it, allow the scab to fall off naturally.
8. Sun protection
9. Moisturiser --- but not on raw wound

Hair care tips for swimmers

I’m a professional swimmer and have very dry skin. I suspect it’s all those chlorine in the pool that has damaged my skin (and hair). I don’t want to quit swimming. What can I do?

1. Stay hydrated and drink regularly before, during and after your swim.
2. Wear silicone swim cap to protect your hair.
3. Apply occlusive moisturiser to seal your skin off chlorinated pool water before a dip.
4. Apply double layer of sunscreen and reapply every hour if you are swimming under direct sunlight.
5. Take a lukewarm shower after the swim and use a gentle cleanser. Don’t forget to use conditioner for your hair after shampooing.
6. Moisturise your skin immediately and generously after the shower.