A keloid scar, once formed, rarely subsides and tends to grow over time. Therefore, one of the most common questions asked by individuals with keloids is, "Can I exercise?" To answer directly, strength training that applies significant tension to the keloid area can stimulate the scar, so caution is needed.
In the clinic, many patients neglect keloids, considering them simple scars, and only visit after they have grown considerably. In the past, it was often thought that treatment was unnecessary, but recently, there has been a significant increase in people actively seeking to manage keloids. Today, we will address some frequently asked questions about keloids.
Why Strength Training Stimulates Keloids
Keloid scars commonly appear on the chest, shoulders, back, chin, and abdomen. While the exact causes are not fully understood, it is believed that increased fibroblast activity in the injured area or greater tension applied to that area can lead to the overproduction of collagen fibers, making keloids more likely to form.
Strength training increases tension and blood supply to the affected area. This environment can act as a factor in worsening keloids. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from strength training in the keloid area to aid in management.
Increased tension and blood supply to the keloid area are reported factors that worsen scars.
Of course, it is difficult to tell someone who enjoys exercise to simply stop. In such cases, we recommend continuing to exercise while regularly managing and treating the keloid area. The key is how to manage the stimulation the keloid area receives, rather than the exercise itself.
Keloid Scars vs. Hypertrophic Scars: Are They the Same?
Many people consider these two types of scars similar, but keloid scars and hypertrophic scars are entirely different conditions. The biggest difference lies in the extent of scar growth and its progression.
| Category | Hypertrophic Scar | Keloid Scar |
|---|---|---|
| Occurrence | Anyone with a severe injury | Individuals with a keloid predisposition |
| Scar Extent | Grows within the boundaries of the injury | Grows excessively beyond the injured area |
| Time Course | Stabilizes over time | Progresses and worsens over time |
Hypertrophic scars tend to stabilize on their own over time. In contrast, keloid scars characteristically grow larger and worsen over time, making it advisable to start management as early as possible.
If you are curious about keloid scar management, you can find more detailed information on the Characteristics and Treatment Direction of Keloid Scars page.
Keloids Suddenly Appearing After Major Trauma
Occasionally, individuals report that "keloids suddenly appeared where there were none before" after major trauma from surgery or an accident. In such cases, it is common for individuals to be unaware of their keloid predisposition until a major trauma reveals the keloid.
Therefore, if a keloid predisposition is suspected, it is crucial to consult thoroughly with your surgeon before any surgical procedure. Developing habits to prevent even minor injuries in daily life is also helpful.
If you are prone to keloids, consider the following points in your daily life:
- Reduce postures or movements that place excessive tension on keloid areas.
- Be careful in daily life to avoid even small injuries.
- Refrain from strenuous strength training that stimulates keloid areas.
- If scars grow, or if itching or pain occurs, do not neglect it; seek medical attention.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave them via Keloid Scar Management Chat Consultation.
When You're Confused Between Acne and Keloids
Acne and keloid scars generally have distinct characteristics, making differentiation relatively straightforward. The biggest difference is the presence or absence of inflammation. Acne involves inflammation, whereas keloids do not.
First, here are common characteristics of acne:
- Feels warm to the touch
- Painful when touched
- Feels soft and elastic
Conversely, keloids exhibit the following characteristics:
- Excessively fibrotic and firm
- Hard when touched
- Generally not painful
However, pain or itching may accompany the growth of a keloid. Also, if acne persists in the same spot for more than 6 months without disappearing, it's worth considering whether it might be a keloid scar rather than simple acne. If acne marks have hardened into scars, you may also find Types and Management of Acne Scars helpful.
Accurate Diagnosis Comes First
Keloids are often difficult to distinguish through self-diagnosis alone. It is common to confuse them with acne or to mistake hypertrophic scars for keloids. In such cases, consulting with dermatology medical staff for an accurate diagnosis is the safest starting point.
After diagnosis, you can discuss appropriate management methods, such as Triamcinolone Scar Injection, tailored to the scar's condition and location. Since the approach varies depending on the type and progression of the scar, accurately understanding your condition is paramount.
If you have any questions beyond those addressed today, please feel free to confirm through a consultation.
💬 Consult NowDr. Sang-Joo Lee, Chief Director (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School; Dermatology Resident, Severance Hospital; President, Korean Society for Dermatology) Dr. Sang-Joo Lee's Profile First Published 2023-11-13 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-16
Scar patterns and responses vary from person to person, so an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan must be determined through consultation with medical staff.