Can Tretinoin cream 1.0 reduce the size of really big, thick keloids?

Hi there and thank you for your question! For thicker keloids, we usually recommend steroid injections into the keloids to help soften the scar tissue and reduce any symptoms the keloids may be causing. I would not expect tretinoin to result in much improvement of the keloids. I would recommend in-person evaluation by a dermatologist to further discuss treatment options.

Thanks for your question.  Unfortunately, I don't think any strength of retin-a or tretinoin cream will be useful for thick keloids on any part of the body.  We usually treat them with a combination of CO2 laser and intralesional, or in the areas, kenalog injections.  The procedures can be uncomfortable, so we mix the kenalog with some lidocaine which dilutes the medication and makes it flow easier into the thick, ropy tissue, and helps make the areas numb for awhile.  Sorry you are suffering from this problem!  Please see your board certified dermatologist for treatment options, and best of luck!

Thank you for your question.In my experience, thick keloid scars respond best to steroid injections, but often times, multiple injections are needed to achieve optimal results. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to have your skin evaluated and to discuss treatment options that best suit your needs. Take care and good luck.