Optimal Timing for Scar Cream Application After Cryotherapy for Keloids

Q: Optimal Timing for Scar Cream Application After Cryotherapy for Keloids

Hello： Scar removal gels should only be used after the wound has healed, so you must wait until the scab falls off before using them. <br>These gels can help suppress scar inflammation and excessive tissue growth. <br>In addition to cryotherapy, you may also consider appropriate

What is the best timing to use scar treatment ointment after cryotherapy for keloids?

Hello, Doctor! I have a keloid on my left jaw that is 1.5 cm long, 0.8 cm wide, and 0.2 cm thick, which developed after a knife injury and surgery last year.
It looks unsightly and has shown signs of continuous growth.
I have a tendency to develop keloids, but I have since changed my lifestyle by going to bed early, waking up early, regularly stretching, separating my meals and water intake, drinking probiotics, noni juice, barley grass, and spirulina juice consistently until now.
Additionally, I have been diligently using a scar treatment ointment that promotes full-thickness skin regeneration and reconstruction.
It seems that my keloid on the jaw has been controlled; since August, it has not increased in size, and my overall condition seems to have improved.
The small acne scars near the keloid, which were caused by steroid injections, have disappeared, but the keloid itself has only slightly reduced in size.
I have researched extensively and recently decided to undergo cryotherapy, utilizing the physical properties of low temperatures to destroy the abnormal tissue, allowing it to scab and eventually fall off, while normal skin tissue grows back.
I went to a dermatology clinic for cryotherapy, and for the first three days, I developed large blisters (which I treated with antibiotics).
Today is the fourth day, and the blisters have noticeably shrunk, becoming smaller than the original keloid.
It is likely that scabbing will occur afterward.
So far, the treatment seems effective, but I am unsure when is the best time to use my scar treatment ointment.
I am concerned that applying it too soon might reactivate the old keloid tissue that is supposed to scab and fall off (am I overthinking this?).
On the other hand, if I don’t apply it, I fear missing the opportunity for the ointment to activate the normal skin tissue underneath for reconstruction.
Could you please advise me on the best timing?
Timing options:
1.
Apply the scar ointment immediately after cryotherapy.
2.
Apply the scar ointment after the blisters have subsided (current situation).
3.
Apply the scar ointment after the scabs have fallen off.

Xin Miao Ku Long, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/04/16

Dr. Lin Xinpeng reply Dermatology

Hello: Scar removal gels should only be used after the wound has healed, so you must wait until the scab falls off before using them.
These gels can help suppress scar inflammation and excessive tissue growth.
In addition to cryotherapy, you may also consider appropriate steroid injections, dye laser treatments, or silicone sheets to inhibit the continued growth of hypertrophic scars.

Reply Date: 2013/04/16

More Info

When it comes to the optimal timing for applying scar cream after cryotherapy for keloids, it is essential to understand the healing process of the skin and the specific characteristics of keloids. Keloids are raised scars that result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, and they can be particularly challenging to manage.

After undergoing cryotherapy, which involves freezing the keloid tissue to destroy abnormal cells, the skin goes through several stages of healing. Initially, there may be swelling and the formation of blisters, which is a normal response to the treatment. As the healing progresses, these blisters will eventually subside, and scabs may form as the skin begins to regenerate.

The timing of when to apply scar cream is crucial. Generally, it is recommended to wait until the skin has healed sufficiently, which means that any blisters have resolved and scabs have formed. Applying scar cream too early, especially on open or healing wounds, can interfere with the natural healing process and may lead to irritation or infection. Therefore, the best practice is to wait until the scabs have fallen off naturally before applying any scar treatment.

In your case, since you mentioned that the blisters have started to shrink and you are on day four post-treatment, it is advisable to monitor the healing process closely. If the blisters have resolved and the area is no longer oozing or showing signs of irritation, you can consider starting to apply your scar cream. However, if there are still signs of active healing, it would be best to wait until the scabs have completely fallen off.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that while scar creams can help improve the appearance of scars, they are most effective when used in conjunction with other treatments. For keloids, options such as corticosteroid injections, silicone gel sheets, or laser therapy may also be beneficial in reducing the size and appearance of the scar. Consulting with your dermatologist about a comprehensive treatment plan can provide you with the best results.

In summary, the optimal timing for applying scar cream after cryotherapy for keloids is to wait until the scabs have fallen off and the skin has healed adequately. This approach minimizes the risk of complications and maximizes the effectiveness of the scar treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific situation and healing progress.

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