Treatment of keloid scars using light-, laser- and energy-based devices: a contemporary review of the literature

Lasers Med Sci. 2017 Dec;32(9):2145-2154. doi: 10.1007/s10103-017-2332-5. Epub 2017 Oct 18.

Abstract

Keloid scars are common and have a predilection for young, ethnic skin often with a family history. Keloids can be painful and pruritic and cause significant emotional distress when particularly visible or prominent. In this article, we review the evidence underlying the use of laser- and energy-based devices for treatment of keloid scars, either as monotherapy or in conjunction with other therapies such as corticosteroids, surgery and silicone gel in the treatment of keloid scars.

Keywords: Keloid; Laser; Light; Scars.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cicatrix, Hypertrophic / radiotherapy*
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Ethnicity
  • Humans
  • Keloid / radiotherapy*
  • Lasers*
  • Light*
  • Skin / radiation effects