Hypertrophic Scarring and Keloids
A hypertrophic scar is an exuberant scar or healing response to trauma or injury, occurring in predisposed individuals. A keloid is an exuberant scar that extends beyond the area of trauma or injury. Both hypertrophic scars and keloids can arise at any skin site. Most occur on the chest, head and neck. The earlobe is another common site. These scars occur at sites of trauma and injury, which includes surgery, burns, piercing, acne and other types of inflammation.
Early, normal scars are usually red to purple, and firm during the initial weeks of healing. Itching and tenderness are common for both normal scars, hypertrophic scars and keloids.