Key Takeaways:
- Scar Types Matter: Hypertrophic scars remain within the wound boundary, while keloids grow beyond it and often require different care.
- Supportive Nutrition Helps: Targeted nutrients may promote healthy wound healing and reduce the risk of raised, long-lasting scars.
- Zen Nutrients Offers Solutions: WoundVite® is formulated to support skin recovery with research-backed ingredients for surgical and injury-related care.
Not all scars are the same. Some fade over time, while others become raised, thick, or itchy. Two of the most common types of raised scars are hypertrophic and keloid scars. While they may look similar at first glance, they form in different ways and often respond to different types of care. Knowing which one you're dealing with can help you make better decisions about how to support the healing process.
At Zen Nutrients, we design clean, pharmacist- and physician-formulated supplements that support the body's recovery from the inside out. Our products are made in the United States in an FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility using non-GMO, gluten-free ingredients. Every formula is created to target specific health concerns, like scar healing, using ingredients backed by research and selected with intention.
In this article, we will break down the difference between hypertrophic and keloid scars, explain how each one forms, and explore how treatments and supplements like WoundVite® may support your skin during recovery.
What Is a Hypertrophic Scar?
A hypertrophic scar is a thick, raised scar that forms directly over a wound. It typically appears within weeks after injury or surgery and remains confined to the original wound site. These scars are often red or pink at first and may gradually become flatter and paler over time. Some feel firm or itchy, but they do not usually continue growing beyond the boundary of the injury.
What makes hypertrophic scars different is how they form due to an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. The body responds to injury by producing this protein to close and protect the wound, but in some cases, the response goes into overdrive. The result is a scar that looks bulkier than usual.
Most hypertrophic scars improve on their own with time, but some may benefit from supportive care. Silicone sheets, gentle massage, and proper wound care are commonly used to help reduce their appearance. According to Medscape, collagen buildup and prolonged inflammation are both contributing factors in how these scars form.
What Is a Keloid Scar?
Keloid scars are raised, thickened scars that extend beyond the original wound site. Unlike hypertrophic scars, which stay within the injury boundary, keloids continue to grow outward into the surrounding skin. They can develop after even minor injuries, such as acne, piercings, or small cuts, and may take months to appear. Keloids are often shiny, smooth, and vary in color from pink to dark brown depending on skin tone. They can feel firm and, in some cases, cause discomfort, itching, or tenderness. While they are not harmful, they can be a cosmetic concern or create irritation, especially if located in areas that experience movement or friction.
Keloids are the result of an abnormal wound healing response that leads to excess collagen production. This process can be influenced by genetics, skin type, or previous scar history. While keloids are harder to treat than hypertrophic scars, various therapies may help reduce their size or flatten their appearance. If you are managing a scar after surgery or injury and want to support your recovery early, you may benefit from learning more about vitamins to reduce scars after surgery. These nutrients are often included in recovery-focused routines designed to promote skin repair and reduce excessive scarring.
Hypertrophic Scar Vs. Keloid: Key Differences
Hypertrophic and keloid scars may look similar at first, but they differ in how they grow, what causes them, and how they respond to treatment. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right kind of support, especially if you’re dealing with a recent injury or post-surgical healing.
Appearance And Growth Patterns
Hypertrophic scars stay within the boundaries of the original wound and may gradually flatten over time. Keloids, on the other hand, can grow well beyond the wound’s edge and do not usually fade without treatment. Both types can appear raised and firm, but keloids tend to have a smoother, shinier surface and can be more persistent.
Causes And Risk Factors
Both scar types are caused by excess collagen production during healing. However, genetics often plays a stronger role in keloid formation. People with darker skin tones, a history of keloids, or certain types of injuries may be more likely to develop them. Hypertrophic scars are more common and often appear after burns, surgical incisions, or trauma that causes skin tension. One of the most important distinguishing features is that hypertrophic scars may improve with time or simple topical treatments, while keloids often require longer-term management or medical procedures.
Treatment Options Compared
Treatments for both types may include silicone gels, corticosteroid injections, pressure therapy, or laser treatment, depending on severity. For everyday support, nutrients that aid in wound recovery and skin repair may help improve outcomes when used consistently during the healing phase. Our collection of wound healing supplements is formulated to provide skin-supportive nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and collagen. If you are looking for more comprehensive options, our supplements for wound healing include ingredients that help support tissue repair and reduce visible scarring during recovery.
How WoundVite® Supports Scar Recovery
Scar formation is part of the body’s natural healing process, but for those who want to support more balanced recovery, targeted nutrients can make a difference. WoundVite® was created to provide that kind of support, using a multi-nutrient formula designed to complement the body’s tissue repair process from the inside out.
Science-Backed Ingredients In WoundVite®
WoundVite® contains over 20 clean, research-backed ingredients commonly used to support skin health, wound healing, and scar care. These include vitamin C for collagen synthesis, zinc for cell regeneration, and L-arginine for healthy blood flow. The formula also features turmeric, bromelain, and MSM, which are known for their role in managing inflammation and promoting soft tissue repair. This supplement is pharmacist- and physician-formulated and manufactured in a U.S.-based, FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility. It is gluten-free, non-GMO, and designed with both surgical recovery and injury-related healing in mind.
When To Consider Post-Surgery Support
WoundVite® is often used during the healing period after surgery, injury, or skin trauma to provide consistent nutritional support. Taking a supplement like WoundVite® may help maintain nutrient levels needed during high-demand healing phases. If you are in recovery or have undergone a procedure where scarring is a concern, looking into vitamins for wound healing after surgery may offer a helpful place to start. These blends are often designed to support wound closure and tissue strength as the skin repairs itself.
Everyday Tips To Support Scar Healing
Supporting your skin during recovery goes beyond just products. Daily habits have a lasting impact on how a scar forms, how visible it becomes, and how long it takes to soften or fade. Whether you’re dealing with a surgical wound, a scraped knee, or a more complex injury, staying consistent with your care routine is key to better outcomes. Start by keeping the healing area clean, dry, and protected.
Follow any aftercare instructions from your provider and avoid touching or picking at scabs, which can delay healing and increase the chance of raised or discolored scars. Once the wound has closed, consider adding scar massage or topical care as recommended. Protecting the area from sunlight is also important. UV rays can darken scar tissue, so applying sunscreen or keeping it covered can help minimize permanent discoloration.
Nutrition plays a role in every stage of wound recovery. A well-balanced diet that includes protein, vitamin C, zinc, and other essential nutrients can support collagen production and tissue strength. For those recovering from surgery, post-surgery supplements may help fill nutritional gaps and provide steady support when your body needs it most. Paired with adequate hydration, quality sleep, and gentle movement, these small, daily actions help create an internal environment where the skin is more likely to heal cleanly and smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between hypertrophic and keloid scars is an important step in choosing how to support your skin as it heals. While both result from excess collagen during wound repair, they vary in appearance, growth patterns, and how they respond to treatment. Being able to recognize the type of scar you are dealing with helps guide better decisions for care and support. For those recovering from surgery or injury, early support through clean nutrition, proper skincare, and wound-specific supplements may help the body heal in a more balanced way. These efforts can contribute to stronger skin and a reduced risk of long-term scarring. While results vary, small daily choices can lead to more noticeable improvements over time.
At Zen Nutrients, we focus on creating supplements that are designed with real healing in mind. Our products, including WoundVite®, are built with carefully chosen ingredients to support recovery and scar care with purpose and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hypertrophic Scar Vs. Keloid Scar
What is the main difference between a hypertrophic scar and a keloid?
A hypertrophic scar stays within the original wound site, while a keloid extends beyond it into surrounding skin.
Are keloids more difficult to treat than hypertrophic scars?
Yes. Keloids are more likely to persist and often require medical procedures, while hypertrophic scars may flatten over time or respond to topical care.
Do both scar types form right after injury?
Hypertrophic scars usually appear within weeks, while keloids may take longer to develop and can continue growing for months.
Can supplements help reduce scarring?
Certain vitamins and minerals may support the skin’s natural healing process, especially when taken during the early stages of recovery.
Are keloids dangerous?
Keloids are not harmful or cancerous, but they can cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns for some individuals.
Who is more likely to develop keloids?
People with darker skin tones, a family history of keloids, or previous abnormal scars are more likely to experience keloid formation.
Can I prevent hypertrophic scars after surgery?
Following proper wound care, protecting the skin, and using supportive nutrients may help reduce the likelihood of raised scarring.
What treatments are available for keloids?
Options include corticosteroid injections, silicone therapy, laser treatments, or surgical removal under medical supervision.
Do scars improve with age?
Some scars may fade or flatten over time, especially hypertrophic scars, though others remain stable without much change.
When should I talk to a doctor about a scar?
If a scar becomes painful, continues to grow, or causes cosmetic concerns, it is best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
Sources:
- DermNet NZ. (2023, August 31). Keloid and Hypertrophic Scarhttps://dermnetnz.org/topics/keloid-and-hypertrophic-scar
- KINS Clinic. (2023, March 28). Keloid vs Hypertrophic Scar: Differences and Management Approacheshttps://www.kins-clinic.com/blogs/keloid-vs-hypertrophic-scar-differences-and-management-approaches
- Medscape. (2023, April 17). Keloid and Hypertrophic Scarhttps://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1057599-overview
DISCLAIMER:
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
