Raised & keloid scars

Calming a raised or keloid scar.

Some scars grow thick, raised, and firm — hypertrophic scars stay within the wound, while keloids spread beyond it. Topical silicone is a first-line, non-invasive way to help soften and flatten raised scars over time.

Reviewed by Raed Salah, Pharmacist and Technical DirectorLast reviewed September 2026

What raised and keloid scars are

Raised scars form when the body produces too much collagen. A hypertrophic scar stays within the boundaries of the original wound; a keloid grows beyond it onto surrounding skin.

Both can be itchy, firm, or tender. They're more common on the chest, shoulders, and earlobes, and in some people more than others. Topical silicone is a recognized first step for managing them.

What causes raised and keloid scars

Several factors increase the chance of a raised or keloid scar:

Excess collagen. An overactive healing response lays down more collagen than needed.

Wound tension and location. High-tension areas like the chest and shoulders are more prone.

Individual tendency. Some people are simply more likely to form keloids, sometimes running in families.

Raised and keloid scars tend to share certain features:

  • Thick, raised, firm tissue
  • A keloid that extends beyond the original wound
  • Itching, tenderness, or a pulling sensation
  • A shiny or darker surface
  • A scar that grows over weeks or months

Because raised scars can be stubborn, starting topical care early — once healed — and staying consistent gives the best chance of improvement.

Managing a raised or keloid scar

Once the skin has healed, consistent topical care can help soften and flatten a raised scar:

Topical silicone first. Silicone gel is a recognized first-line, non-invasive option for raised and keloid scars.

Consistency is key. Raised scars need months of daily care; results build slowly.

Protect and don't pick. Shield from the sun and avoid irritating the scar.

Combine with medical care when needed. Stubborn keloids may need a doctor's treatments alongside topical care.

When to seek care

See a doctor if

Keloids in particular often benefit from medical input. Seek advice if:

A scar keeps growing or spreading well beyond the wound
The scar is painful, very itchy, or interfering with movement
You're prone to keloids and want to prevent one after a procedure
The scar doesn't improve with consistent topical care

How Scarless helps

How Scarless helps raised and keloid scars

Scarless leaves a clear silicone layer on the healed scar that helps reduce moisture loss from its surface. This may support the scar's pliability, texture, and appearance, but it does not cure or permanently remove a keloid, and it may not be enough for every case.

  • The silicone barrier helps maintain a moist environment over the scar's surface.
  • Squalane keeps the skin comfortable through the long course raised scars need.
  • Evidence on the vitamin C derivative relates to the ingredient and its role in the skin, not to direct clinical proof for the finished product.
Learn about the ingredientsSee how it worksSee how the gel helpsRead the published researchSilicone gel or silicone sheets: how to choose

Where to next

A few ways forward

Raised scars need patience and consistency. Here's where to start.

  • Order Online

    Available at pharmacies across our markets — or order online.

    Order Online

  • Ask us directly

    Not sure if Scarless fits a raised or keloid scar? Reach us directly.

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  • For Healthcare Professionals

    Mechanism, evidence and safety for healthcare professionals.

    Open the HCP resource