Managing HS abscesses so they drain properly is a real challenge, and it's something many people with HS deal with. Here are some approaches that may help encourage drainage and prevent premature closing:
- Warm compresses – Apply a warm (not hot), soft cloth like a washcloth to the affected area for about 10 minutes at a Show Full Answer
Managing HS abscesses so they drain properly is a real challenge, and it's something many people with HS deal with. Here are some approaches that may help encourage drainage and prevent premature closing:
- Warm compresses – Apply a warm (not hot), soft cloth like a washcloth to the affected area for about 10 minutes at a time. This can help encourage drainage and ease pain.
- Keep the area clean – Gently wash the skin daily with a mild cleanser or antiseptic wash like chlorhexidine or benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria and support healing.
- Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping – As tempting as it is, this can cause the abscess to close unevenly or lead to further infection.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing – Friction from tight clothes can worsen abscesses, especially in areas like the armpits or groin. It's really important to know that home management has its limits. If an abscess is not draining, is growing, becoming more painful, changing color, or is accompanied by a fever, reach out to a dermatologist promptly.
A dermatologist who specializes in HS can offer options like corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures tailored specifically for HS. Standard incision and drainage (I&D) procedures, while they offer quick relief, have a nearly 100% recurrence rate and aren't considered a long-term solution on their own. A broader treatment plan combining medication, skin care, and possibly HS-specific surgery tends to work much better.
August 1
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