Keloids are raised scars that form due to an overgrowth of collagen at the site of a healed skin injury. They can be unsightly and sometimes uncomfortable, but there are several natural and homeopathic remedies that people have found effective in reducing their appearance. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best natural and homeopathic solutions for keloids, backed by both real user reviews and medical research.

What Are Keloids? Keloids are fibrous growths that occur when the skin heals after an injury, such as a cut, burn, or piercing. Unlike regular scars, keloids extend beyond the original wound and can continue to grow over time. They are more common in people with darker skin tones and can appear anywhere on the body.

Natural Remedies for Keloids:

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

How It Works: Gotu Kola promotes collagen synthesis and can help reduce keloid formation. User Reviews: Many users have reported that applying Gotu Kola cream or ointment has helped reduce their keloids. Medical Literature: Studies have shown that Gotu Kola can help improve skin conditions and promote healing.

Snail Extract

How It Works: Snail extract contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing. User Reviews: Users have praised snail extract for its soothing effects and its ability to improve the appearance of keloids. Medical Literature: Research has shown that snail extract can help reduce scar tissue.

Lavender

How It Works: Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help in reducing keloid scars. User Reviews: Many users have found that applying diluted lavender oil to their keloids has helped soothe the skin and reduce scar tissue. Medical Literature: Lavender is known for its healing properties and has been used in various skin treatments.

Clay

How It Works: Clay, especially bentonite clay, has detoxifying and healing properties that can help reduce keloids. User Reviews: Users have reported that applying clay masks to their keloids has helped reduce their size and redness. Medical Literature: Clay has been used in traditional medicine for its skin-healing properties.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

How It Works: ACV has antibacterial properties that can help reduce the redness and size of keloids. User Reviews: Many users have reported that applying diluted ACV to their keloids has helped reduce their appearance over time. Medical Literature: While there isn’t extensive research on ACV specifically for keloids, its antibacterial properties are well-documented.

Honey

How It Works: Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with wound healing and scar reduction. User Reviews: Users have found that applying honey to their keloids has helped reduce their size and improve skin texture. Medical Literature: Honey is known for its wound-healing properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

Frankincense and Myrrh

How It Works: Both frankincense and myrrh have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce keloids. They are often used together in essential oil blends. User Reviews: Many users have praised the combination of frankincense and myrrh for their ability to reduce keloid size and improve skin health. Medical Literature: Both oils have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

Neem (Azadirachta indica)

How It Works: Neem has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce keloid formation. User Reviews: In Indian traditional medicine, neem leaves and oil are applied to wounds to prevent excessive scarring. Medical Literature: Neem’s efficacy in keloid treatment is anecdotal but widely used traditionally.

Black Seed Oil (Nigella sativa)

How It Works: Black seed oil possesses anti-inflammatory and healing properties that may help reduce keloid formation. User Reviews: Commonly used in Middle Eastern and South Asian traditional medicine, it is praised for its skin benefits. Medical Literature: Scientific studies on keloids are limited, but black seed oil shows promise for general scar reduction.

Bulbine frutescens How It Works: Native to South Africa, the gel from Bulbine frutescens leaves is traditionally applied to scars to promote healing. User Reviews: Many South African users report success in reducing scar size and inflammation. Medical Literature: Its efficacy in keloid treatment lacks substantial validation but is widely used traditionally.

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

How It Works: Aloe vera gel soothes skin and reduces scar formation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. User Reviews: Widely used across Africa and South America, aloe vera is a common remedy for scars. Medical Literature: Evidence supports its role in wound healing but is limited for keloids specifically.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

How It Works: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and is applied to scars to reduce their appearance. User Reviews: Used in South Asian medicine, many report improvement in scar texture and size. Medical Literature: Turmeric aids general wound healing, though specific keloid studies are scarce.

Calendula (Marigold)

How It Works: Calendula has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that can help reduce keloid scars. User Reviews: Many users have found that applying calendula cream to their keloids has helped improve their appearance. Medical Literature: Calendula is commonly used in homeopathic treatments for skin conditions.

Arnica

How It Works: Arnica is known for its ability to reduce bruising and inflammation, which can help with keloid scars. User Reviews: Users have reported that applying arnica gel to their keloids has helped reduce pain and inflammation. Medical Literature: Arnica is widely used in homeopathy for its healing properties.

Graphites

How It Works: Graphites is used in homeopathy to treat keloids in their early stages by absorbing scar tissue. User Reviews: Users have found that taking graphites supplements has helped prevent the progression of keloids. Medical Literature: Graphites is a common homeopathic remedy for skin conditions.

Silicea

How It Works: Silicea is used to treat keloids that are painful and to dissolve unnecessary scar tissue. User Reviews: Users have reported that taking silicea supplements has helped reduce keloid pain and size. Medical Literature: Silicea is known for its ability to treat various skin conditions.

Prevention Tips:

Preventing keloids is key to managing them effectively. Here are some tips:

Avoid elective procedures. If you’re prone to keloids, avoid piercings, tattoos, and unnecessary surgeries. Reduce tension: Keep the wound area free from tension to prevent keloid formation. Proper wound care: Clean and dress wounds properly to promote healing and prevent infection.

Keloids can be challenging to treat, but with the right combination of natural and homeopathic remedies, you can manage their appearance effectively. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, and remember that patience and consistency are key to seeing results.