Yes, HS can appear on the face, though it's less common than in areas where skin rubs together. The nose is one of the more unusual spots it can show up, and many myHSteam members have shared their experiences with facial HS — some even surprising their doctors! When HS does appear on the face or nose, symptoms can include:
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Yes, HS can appear on the face, though it's less common than in areas where skin rubs together. The nose is one of the more unusual spots it can show up, and many myHSteam members have shared their experiences with facial HS — some even surprising their doctors! When HS does appear on the face or nose, symptoms can include:
- Small, pitted blackheads (often in pairs)
- Painful pea-sized lumps under the skin
- Abscesses that may grow and drain pus
- Tunnels connecting lumps that can leak pus and blood
- Scarring after lesions heal
Severity varies from person to person. One myHSteam member shared that a lesion near the bridge of their nose caused their entire face to swell for days. The good news is that facial HS can be treated similarly to HS elsewhere on the body. A doctor may recommend options such as:
- Topical or systemic antibiotics
- Steroid injections
- Hormonal therapy
- Biologics
- Surgery or laser therapy in more severe cases
It's important to let your doctor know if you're experiencing facial symptoms, especially if they're changing or worsening.
June 15
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