Piercings are a popular form of self-expression, but they can sometimes come with challenges, especially when keloid scars form. Keloids are raised, often painful, scars that can develop around the site of a piercing. Fortunately, there are ways to manage and prevent keloid scarring, one of which is using healing discs. In this post, we’ll explore what keloids are, why they occur around piercings, and how healing discs can help.
What Are Keloid Scars?
Keloids are an overgrowth of scar tissue that extends beyond the original wound area. They form when the skin heals after trauma, such as a piercing, but the healing process produces excess collagen, causing the scar to rise and become larger than necessary. Keloids are more common in certain individuals, particularly those with darker skin tones and those with a genetic predisposition. However, anyone can develop a keloid after a piercing if the area is irritated or infected.
Why Do Keloids Form Around Piercings?
Piercings, especially those on areas prone to tension (like the ear or navel), can be a trigger for keloid development. Factors like poor aftercare, trauma to the piercing, or an allergic reaction to jewellery materials can all contribute. Once a keloid forms, it can be difficult to treat, and they often return even after removal. Preventing them from forming in the first place is key, and that’s where healing discs come in.
What Are Healing Discs?
Healing discs are small, silicone-based pads placed on either side of a piercing. They’re designed to reduce the pressure and irritation on the skin surrounding the piercing, promoting smoother healing and reducing the risk of keloid formation. Healing discs act as a protective barrier, limiting movement and trauma to the piercing site, and can also provide slight compression to minimise swelling and scar tissue buildup.
How Healing Discs Help Prevent and Treat Keloids
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Pressure Control: Healing discs apply gentle pressure around the piercing, helping to flatten the area and prevent excessive collagen buildup that leads to keloid formation. The pressure also keeps the jewellery stable, reducing the risk of irritation.
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Reducing Irritation: By protecting the skin around the piercing, healing discs prevent the area from being rubbed by clothing, hair, or other objects. This reduces inflammation, a common precursor to keloid formation.
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Encouraging Smoother Healing: Healing discs create an optimal healing environment by maintaining moisture and controlling external elements. This promotes a smoother, more even healing process, reducing the likelihood of scars.
How to Use Healing Discs
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Step 1: Clean Your Piercing
Before applying healing discs, ensure the piercing is clean and free from any debris or buildup. Clean it gently with saline solution. -
Step 2: Attach the Discs
Place a disc on either side of the piercing. Most healing discs are designed to fit snugly around the post of your jewellery, ensuring they stay in place. -
Step 3: Maintain Good Hygiene
Continue cleaning your piercing regularly, but avoid over-irritating the area. Healing discs should be worn consistently for the best results. -
Step 4: Monitor Progress
Keep an eye on your piercing to ensure the healing process is smooth. If you notice significant swelling, pain, or keloid growth, consult a dermatologist or piercer for additional advice.
When to Use Healing Discs
Healing discs are most effective during the initial healing phase of a piercing, but they can also be used later if you notice irritation or the beginnings of keloid formation. If a keloid has already formed, using healing discs may help reduce its size, though severe cases might require professional treatment, such as corticosteroid injections or laser therapy.
Other Tips for Preventing Keloids Around Piercings
- Choose the Right Jewellery: Opt for hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel to minimize allergic reactions.
- Avoid Excessive Movement: Try not to twist or rotate your jewelry frequently, as this can irritate the piercing and lead to scar tissue formation.
- Stay Consistent with Aftercare: Following your piercer’s aftercare instructions is crucial to prevent complications like infection, which can contribute to keloid formation.
Conclusion
Keloid scars can be frustrating, but with the proper care and preventive tools like healing discs, you can minimize their risk and enjoy your piercing without worry. Healing discs provide an easy and effective way to reduce irritation, control pressure, and support a smooth healing process. If you’re prone to keloids or simply want to ensure your piercing heals well, consider incorporating healing discs into your aftercare routine.
Are you struggling with keloid scars from a piercing? Share your experience or questions in the comments below!
