myHSteam

Finding the right products for HS skin can take some trial and error, but there are some solid guidelines to help narrow things down. The key is avoiding ingredients that trigger irritation or flare-ups.

Ingredients to avoid across all products
- Fragrances and dyes
- Parabens (preservatives)
- Alcohol-based ingredients
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Finding the right products for HS skin can take some trial and error, but there are some solid guidelines to help narrow things down. The key is avoiding ingredients that trigger irritation or flare-ups.

Ingredients to avoid across all products:
- Fragrances and dyes
- Parabens (preservatives)
- Alcohol-based ingredients
- Aluminum (in older antiperspirants especially)
- Baking soda, essential oils, and talc (even "natural" ingredients can irritate sensitive skin) Soaps & Body Wash

Look for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. Some myHSteam members have had success with:
- Tea tree oil body wash (noted to help with odor)
- Antibacterial soap like Dial
- African black soap
- Medicated soaps

Avoid loofahs and washcloths — they harbor bacteria and cause friction. Use your hands to cleanse instead. Always check with your dermatologist before trying new products. Deodorants & Antiperspirants

Antiperspirants (which reduce sweat) tend to be more effective for HS than regular deodorants, which just mask odor. A dermatologist tip: clinical-strength, zirconium-based options like Dove Clinical Protection or Secret Clinical Strength are less irritating than older aluminum chloride formulas.

Some myHSteam members have found success with:
- Aluminum- and paraben-free natural deodorants (Native, Kiss My Face, Pretty Frank)
- Solid stick formulas over roll-ons or gels
- Mitchum antibacterial deodorant

One important tip — applying deodorant at night can actually be more effective than in the morning. And never apply to open wounds or lesions. A Few Extra Tips

- Use lukewarm water when washing — hot water can aggravate flare-ups
- If odor from lesions is a concern, covering the area with an absorbent bandage sealed with something like Tegaderm can help contain it
- Some myHSteam members skip deodorant entirely and use flushable wipes throughout the day instead

As always, running new products by your dermatologist first is the safest move — what works for one person may not work for another.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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