A Review of Energy-Based Device Interventions to Treat Keloid Scars

Keloids are thickened raised scars that develop due to injury and grow beyond the boundaries of their original wound, mostly affecting individuals with skin of color. This review explores the use of energy-based devices to treat keloids, both using laser monotherapy and in combination with other drugs. Laser therapy alone has shown efficacy in treating keloids. Combination laser therapy has better keloid reduction when administered with steroids, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and verapamil. However, monotherapy has had less adverse reactions including dermal atrophy and local pain. Therefore, physician discretion is essential when considering treatment. This review highlights the efficacy of energy-based devices (EBDs), alone and in combination. It also reveals the need to have tailored approaches with patients. Further research is needed to develop more comprehensive treatment standards for keloids using EBDs alone or in combination. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(11):998-1002. doi:10.36849/JDD.8210R1.