myHSteam

Given a stage 3 diagnosis, laser treatment options are more limited but not completely off the table. The key distinction is which type of laser is being considered.

For stage 3 HS, here's what the evidence shows:

- CO2 laser therapy is currently the only laser-based treatment shown to be effective for stage 3 HS — it works Show Full Answer

Given a stage 3 diagnosis, laser treatment options are more limited but not completely off the table. The key distinction is which type of laser is being considered.

For stage 3 HS, here's what the evidence shows:

- CO2 laser therapy is currently the only laser-based treatment shown to be effective for stage 3 HS — it works like a more precise surgical tool and may also have anti-inflammatory properties
- Laser hair removal (such as Nd:YAG, diode, or intense pulsed light) is generally not recommended for stage 3, as the lasers cannot penetrate scar tissue and the treatment tends to be more painful CO2 laser surgery is typically considered when HS hasn't responded well to other treatments — which sounds familiar given the journey so far. It's worth noting that surgery is ideally performed when HS is in remission, meaning inflammation is at its lowest.

Since the biologics and injections are showing some positive results, that could actually work in favor of exploring surgical laser options — getting inflammation under better control first may improve outcomes.

A dermatologist with specific expertise in laser treatments for HS would be the best person to assess whether CO2 laser therapy is a viable next step, especially given the affected areas.

 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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