It's completely understandable that your son feels embarrassed — odor is one of the most emotionally challenging parts of living with HS. The good news is there are several practical steps that can really help.
Gentle Cleansing
Keeping affected areas clean is a great starting point:
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free or Show Full Answer
It's completely understandable that your son feels embarrassed — odor is one of the most emotionally challenging parts of living with HS. The good news is there are several practical steps that can really help.
Gentle Cleansing
Keeping affected areas clean is a great starting point:
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free or antibacterial soap like Hibiclens
- Try an acne cleanser with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or zinc pyrithione
- Applying diluted white vinegar (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) to lesions before dressing them can also reduce odor
- Pat skin dry gently — no scrubbing Managing Drainage and Odor
Absorbent pads or dressings over affected areas help trap moisture and odor. Some myHSteam members have suggested using period pads as a budget-friendly alternative to wound pads — they work just as well!
Change dressings regularly, especially in sweaty areas. Antiperspirants Over Deodorants
Clinical-strength antiperspirants are more effective than regular deodorants for HS-related odor. Deodorants just mask smell, while antiperspirants reduce sweat. Spray formulas tend to be less irritating.
⚠️ Never apply antiperspirant to broken or irritated skin. Natural Options to Ask a Doctor About
Some people find these helpful:
- Witch hazel
- Diluted apple cider vinegar
- Bentonite clay deodorant (formulated for sensitive skin)
- Essential oils mixed with a carrier oil (test for sensitivities first) Lifestyle Triggers to Avoid
Certain habits can worsen odor by triggering flares:
- Tight clothing or synthetic fabrics
- Smoking
- Stress
- Foods that raise blood sugar
- Overheating
Talk to a Dermatologist
If odor is significantly affecting your son's daily life and confidence, a dermatologist can prescribe topical or oral antibiotics like clindamycin or doxycycline, which target the bacteria causing the smell. This can make a real difference.
October 9
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