An excessive growth of fibrous tissue known as a keloid typically develops after a skin injury has healed. A keloid and a hypertrophic scar are frequently confused.

Keloid is inherited autosomally and dominantly. Between the ages of 10 and 30, keloids are more prevalent in African- and Indian-American populations. When keloids first begin to form, they are flaming red, unpleasant, and irritating. They are typically rectangular or oval with straight sides, though some have uneven borders that give the impression of claws. The shoulder, chest, and earlobes are the most often impacted locations. Most keloids develop gradually over weeks or months and spread outside the traumatised area. They remain steady or very slightly involute once they finish growing.