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Real members of myHSteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
January 17
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What's the best treatment for thick scarring in the groin from old HS?

You're right that lasers, chemical peels, and silicone are all options for treating thick HS scars in the groin. Each has different benefits depending on your scar type.

For thick, raised scars, here are the most common approaches:

Corticosteroid Show Full Answer

What's the best treatment for thick scarring in the groin from old HS?

You're right that lasers, chemical peels, and silicone are all options for treating thick HS scars in the groin. Each has different benefits depending on your scar type.

For thick, raised scars, here are the most common approaches:

Corticosteroid injections are among the most popular treatments. They're injected directly into the scar to reduce inflammation and slow collagen production. Research shows they can reduce scar size by 50 percent or more and help with itching or pain.

Laser therapy can help reduce scar appearance, lessen pain and itching, and improve movement of tight scar tissue. Different laser types can remove layers of raised tissue, repair collagen, or reduce discoloration. However, lasers can cause skin darkening or lightening as a side effect.

Topical silicone (ointments, gel sheets, bandages, or sprays) works well for raised scars. Silicone sheets should be worn at least 12 hours daily for weeks or months to keep scars hydrated.

Chemical peels can remove scarred skin layers, but it's really important to talk to an HS specialist first. Medium and deep peels are used for scars, but side effects include discoloration, swelling, pain, and blisters that can last weeks or months. Skin can become permanently darker or lighter, especially for people with darker skin tones.

A myHSteam member shared: "I had a plastic surgeon remove the scars, and our medical aid paid for the procedure."

Your dermatologist can help determine which treatment or combination works best for your specific scarring.

January 17

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