What are the recommended first-line treatments for managing keloid scars in primary care?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Recommended first-line treatments for managing keloid scars in primary care are not explicitly detailed in the provided UK guidelines context. However, general scar management principles after traumatic injury include helping the person desensitize themselves to the scar by encouraging them to look at, gently touch, and move the affected area. Reassurance about normal sensations such as pain and itchiness is also important. Specialist referral may be considered if scars are severe or problematic.

In primary care, initial management may focus on conservative measures such as scar massage and monitoring, with referral to specialist services (e.g., dermatology or plastic surgery) for more advanced treatments like intralesional corticosteroid injections, silicone gel sheets, or laser therapy, which are commonly used for keloids but are not specified in the provided excerpts.

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