While piercing bumps or keloid scars may appear similar, there are many ways to distinguish them.
We will explain the differences between piercing bumps (or keloids) and how to distinguish them. We will also discuss the possible treatments for each and other skin conditions that could occur after a piercing.
What are piercing bumps, you ask?
After a piercing, piercing bumps can form. These bumps are often seen after cartilage piercings like nose or upper ear drillings.
Piercing bumps are created when the body’s immune response to the wound initiates the healing process. This inflammation is what causes the bump.
In the first few weeks of piercing, there may be bleeding, swelling, or bruising. These are all normal symptoms. You may also experience the following symptoms, which aren’t usually caused for concern:
- Itching
- Some whitish fluid is seen from the site.
- Plaquering jewelry is crusted.
What are keloids?
Keloid refers to a raised scar caused by trauma or injury to the skin. This type of scar can sometimes appear after a piercing.
An overgrowth of fibrous tissue can lead to a keloid. A keloid is formed when fibrous tissue becomes too dense.
After the initial injury, it can take 3-12 months for keloids to develop. The keloids appear as raised scars, which can be pink or purple, and then become darker with time. The location of the keloid and the skin tone can affect its appearance.
Earlobe keloid scars are likely to be round or oval. They can grow quickly or slowly and can eventually become quite large.
Different keloids have different textures. They may feel hard and rubbery or soft and doughy. A person may also experience the following symptoms after a keloid scar is removed:
- Pain
- Itching
- tenderness
Treatment for piercing bumps
Generally, piercing bumps do not require treatment. They are part of the body’s natural response to injury. People can take steps to clean the area, prevent infection and allow the piercings to heal. These are:
- Perforating jewelry should be kept in place for at least 6 months.
- Before touching the piercing, wash your hands
- Once a day, wash the piercings with a bar of mild soap and water or a saline solution.
- After showering or bathing, dry the area with a cotton pad. Avoid using towels as they can harbor bacteria.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that you apply to rub alcohol to the piercing. However, the general guidance recommends not doing this as it can slow healing.
Treatment of keloids
There are many treatment options for keloids. The type and size, as well as the type of keloid, will all play a role in choosing the right treatment. There are many treatment options:
- The use of corticosteroids can shrink the keloid. According to the AAD, people need four injections per week. One every three to four weeks is typical. According to them, corticosteroid injections can shrink keloids by 50 to 80%.
- Surgery, A specialist will remove the keloid. Even after surgery, keloids may return.
- Laser Treatment: Laser Treatment can flatten the keloid scare and make it disappear.
- Cryotherapy This is a treatment that can be used on small keloids. Cryotherapy is when a doctor freezes the small keloids to soften them and reduce their size. Cryotherapy can cause skin pigmentation changes and is not recommended for those with darker skin tones.
People who are aware of their vulnerability to keloids should avoid piercings.
How to talk with a doctor
A doctor or dermatologist should be consulted if someone suspects they may have keloid. The keloid could continue to grow if the patient does not receive treatment.
If you are suffering from symptoms of infection, it is a good idea to consult a doctor.
Summary
Two skin conditions can develop after a piercing: keloids and piercing bumps. While piercing bumps appear quickly and don’t grow in size, keloids can take longer to form and may continue to grow over time.
A dermatologist or doctor can treat keloids. A healthcare provider should be consulted if anyone suspects they may have a keloid or another condition that could cause a lump.