What is the best treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?
There's no single "best" treatment — it really depends on how mild or severe your HS is, and what works for your body. Treatment is often a combination of approaches, and finding the right one can take some trial and error (frustrating, but worth it!).
Here's a Show Full Answer
What is the best treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?
There's no single "best" treatment — it really depends on how mild or severe your HS is, and what works for your body. Treatment is often a combination of approaches, and finding the right one can take some trial and error (frustrating, but worth it!).
Here's a general breakdown by severity:
Mild HS:
- Antibacterial cleansers and topical antibiotics
- Topical pain relievers like lidocaine
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen or NSAIDs)
- Resorcinol cream to reduce inflammation and shorten flares
Moderate HS:
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline, clindamycin + rifampin)
- Corticosteroid injections directly into lesions
- Hormone therapies (spironolactone, finasteride, or oral contraceptives)
- Oral retinoids
Severe HS:
- Biologic medications, which target the immune system to reduce inflammation — these have shown strong results for many people
- Surgical options like deroofing, wide excision, or laser therapy
Lifestyle adjustments can also help across all stages, such as dietary changes (limiting high-glycemic foods) and finding a gentle skincare routine.
Psychological support is just as important — HS can take a real toll mentally, and connecting with a mental health professional or support group can make a big difference.
Always work closely with a dermatologist to find the right combination for you, and don't hesitate to ask about clinical trials — there are promising new treatments on the horizon!
June 21
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