Poor follow-up care after a piercing.
- Not enough care
- Too much care (yes, by wanting to do too well, we have the opposite effect)
- Using disinfectant without real need
- The use of products on the hair (hairspray, coloring, repigmenting shampoos, etc.)
Constant irritation near the piercing site.
In this photo, a bad piercing angle or even migration could be the cause of this growth, probably accentuated further by sleeping on this ear as well.
Check out our piercing care guide to give yourself the best possible chance.
Symptoms and clinical signs
Any inflammation due to the formation of a lump on your newly pierced ears, are usually firm, smooth and raised from the surrounding skin.
They may be slightly pink or pigmented and may cause discomfort or pain, especially if they are located in an area that sees a lot of movement.
If you notice any signs of infection such as redness, excessive heat, severe pain, or pus discharge from your piercing, it is important to consult your piercer or doctor immediately.
The diagnosis
The diagnosis of keloids and hypertrophic scars is usually clinical, that is, based on visual examination and palpation of the lesions by a professional. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other skin conditions.
If you have any doubts about your healing, do not hesitate to consult a specialist doctor or dermatologist to obtain an accurate assessment of your condition.
Possible treatments
How to reduce the size of that lump in your ear?
Several treatments are possible, depending on the size, location and severity of the lesions.
Only a specialist , whether a piercer or your doctor, will be able to offer you the best solution to your problem.
Among all the treatment possibilities, we find the most classic:
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Silicone dressings or pressure dressings: This is the most common solution for treating growths. Applying these dressings can help reduce the size of growths after treatment. They apply gentle pressure to the scar tissue, promoting a flatter and more aesthetically pleasing healing.
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Yellow Betadine: It is also quite often recommended to use yellow betadine in the evening before going to bed. Generally for 1 to 2 weeks maximum. Be careful, however, this product sometimes causes an allergic reaction in some people. Stay attentive to your body's reaction so as not to make the situation worse.
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Tea Tree Essential Oil: Often recommended as a replacement for yellow betadine, it is generally just as effective.
Heavier treatments:
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Corticosteroid injections : These injections can flatten and reduce inflammation. They are usually given monthly at the base of the lesion. A specialist doctor will prescribe and administer this treatment.
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Surgical excision : Removal by surgery. We simply cut, but there is a strong chance that the problem will return later, especially for keloids. WARNING: This is a surgical procedure, so a surgeon will take care of this. Don't start sharpening your steak knives!
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Laser treatment : Laser can be used to reduce the size and appearance of keloids and hypertrophic scars, especially on the ear. This treatment should be performed by an experienced dermatologist to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications.
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Immunomodulators : In some cases, immunomodulatory drugs may be used to prevent the development of growths or reduce the danger of recurrence after treatment. However, their use should be supervised by a professional. The benefits and harms should be carefully weighed.
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Don't self-medicate! Call a professional if you don't want to have very bad surprises.
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Preventing growths after piercing
To minimize the risk of developing growths after a piercing, it is important to follow a proper healing procedure. Here are some tips to promote optimal care:
- Avoid sleeping on the newly pierced ear to avoid excessive pressure on the piercing area.
- It is recommended not to use rings initially, but rather straight rods (barbell or labret type) to allow better healing. For a fitting jewel, we strongly advise you to favor a titanium helix jewel , ideal for healing thanks to its hypoallergenic properties and its lightness. ( Why titanium? )
- Properly care for your piercing by following the advice of your professional piercer, including using a sterile saline solution to clean the area and/or a pH-neutral soap, avoiding touching or turning the jewelry with dirty hands.
- Avoid handling or playing with the jewelry, as this can irritate the area and disrupt the healing process.
- If you notice any signs of infection or if your piercing is not healing properly, consult a qualified healthcare professional immediately for appropriate advice.
For more details, refer to our complete guide and our 10 golden rules for good healing of your piercing .
Potential complications
Although keloids and hypertrophic scars do not pose a major medical risk, they can lead to aesthetic, psychological and functional complications. In some cases, they can limit certain movements, cause persistent itching or cause significant aesthetic discomfort. If you have concerns about your healing or notice any concerning changes, it is recommended that you consult a qualified healthcare professional for an appropriate evaluation and advice.
Conclusion
Keloids and hypertrophic scars are two types of skin lesions that can form after trauma, surgery, or piercing. While they share similarities in appearance, they have important differences in behavior, causes, and care. Following a proper healing procedure, caring for your piercing, and consulting a healthcare professional when needed are essential to minimize the risk of developing these types of lesions and promote optimal healing.
