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I live in Michigan and we have a cold climate 9 months out of the year. My flares occur around the groin area, and I can't seem to find any pants that are loose in that area but warm enough for winter. Can't wear loose pants like joggers or sweatpants to work. Most of the time it's way too cold to wear just a skirt, and tights are sometimes too tight in that area as well. Any advice? Specific pieces of clothing? Brands? Please help!

October 15 (edited)
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A myHSteam Member

Sweat suits is what I wear because I can't wear pants.

7 days ago
myHSteam

Michigan winters with groin-area flares — that's a real challenge, and you're definitely not alone in trying to figure this out! Here are some clothing strategies that may help:

Bottom layers that reduce friction
- Loose boxer shorts (men's or women's) worn as a base layer
- Women's boy shorts underwear in soft, stretchy Show Full Answer

Michigan winters with groin-area flares — that's a real challenge, and you're definitely not alone in trying to figure this out! Here are some clothing strategies that may help:

Bottom layers that reduce friction:
- Loose boxer shorts (men's or women's) worn as a base layer
- Women's boy shorts underwear in soft, stretchy bamboo fabric
- Cotton underwear in a size up for extra room

Outer layers to consider:
- Loose joggers or soft fleece-lined sweatpants worn over a boxer/boy short base layer
- Fleece-lined skirts or midi/maxi skirts layered over thermal boxer shorts instead of tights
- Lightweight thermal leggings in a size up to reduce pressure in the groin area A myHSteam member shared that men's 100% cotton boxers in a size larger than needed worked really well for comfort around the groin area — this layering trick could work under warmer outer layers in winter too.

It's also worth looking into HidraWear, a brand specifically designed for HS. Their underwear has built-in pockets for wound dressings and may be covered by insurance, which could help with managing flares while staying warm.

Talking to your dermatologist about flare management during winter months is always a good idea too — they can help tailor a plan specific to your situation.

October 15

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