Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic (long-term), inflammatory skin condition that can develop around the breasts. People living with HS develop acne-like bumps and lesions in areas of the body that have many sweat glands and hair follicles. Also called acne inversa, HS often affects places where skin rubs together.

HS often involves the skin on or under the breasts, leading to painful nodules or tunnels (also called sinus tracts) that can drain fluid and cause scarring over time. In this article, we’ll explore why HS symptoms develop on and around the breast area, along with ways to find relief from this uncomfortable symptom and when to contact your doctor.

Thanks! You've successfully submitted your vote.

Sign up to view the results!

Continue with Facebook

Continue with Google

Continue with your email

By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.

Already a Member? Log in

What Does Breast HS Feel and Look Like?

Many people develop HS on or under their breasts. For some, this is where their HS journey began. As one myHSteam member shared, “Under my breasts is where mine started as a kid.”

Some people also develop HS in other areas. “My problem areas are under my arms, breasts, and groin area,” one member said.

“I’ve been dealing with an outbreak on my breast all week. I’ve had so much pain — haven’t been feeling the best.”

— A myHSteam member

Still others find that HS develops on their breasts later, after appearing elsewhere: “This spot so far is the worst and the first time I’ve had it under my breast.”

HS on the breasts may be worse than in other locations. “I’ve had four [lesions] removed from my breasts. It was awful,” one member wrote.

Another added, “I’ve been dealing with an outbreak on my breast all week. I’ve had so much pain — haven’t been feeling the best.”

Symptoms of HS on and Under the Breasts

• Stage 1 — One or more lesions without tunneling or scarring
• Stage 2 — One or more lesions with some tunneling and scarring
• Stage 3 — Multiple lesions across larger areas of the body, with widespread tunneling and scarring

Show Sensitive Content

If you have a family history of HS, your chances of developing it may be higher. Symptoms or flares may be triggered by certain factors, including:

• Smoking
• Hormones
• Stress
• Sweating
• Weight gain

Early signs and symptoms of HS on or around the breasts include pain, burning, itching, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). These symptoms may start a day or two before a lesion appears.

Lesions that form on or under the breasts — or in other parts of the body — can last anywhere from a few days to several months. The lesions may look like deep, pea-size bumps, similar to acne cysts or boils. Larger lesions may burst and drain foul-smelling pus. Eventually, the lesions may leave scars and form interconnecting tunnels under the skin. Sometimes, lesions disappear but then come back.

Treatment for HS on and Under the Breasts

While there’s no known cure for HS, several treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce the chances of future flares. Your dermatologist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan, based on the type, location, and severity of your HS lesions.

Commonly used treatments for mild HS (Hurley stage 1) include:

• Topical agents
• Topical antibiotics
• Pain relievers
• Oral antibiotics
• Corticosteroid injections

Moderate and severe forms of HS (Hurley stages 2 and 3) may require a combination of topical and oral medications and other therapies. Medications that may be recommended for people with moderate to severe cases include:

• Oral antibiotics
• Oral retinoids
• Oral anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroids
• Hormonal medications
• Biologic medications

In some cases, surgery may be the best option to clear HS on or around the breasts. “I had a recurring abscess on my breast cut open today,” wrote one member, “and they cleaned out the sinus tracts, as well as removing dead scar tissue and skin.”

Management of HS on and Under the Breasts

Along with medical treatments, some at-home strategies can help manage symptoms of HS on or under the breasts. Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent HS, making small lifestyle changes may reduce flares and improve quality of life. These include:

• Quitting smoking
• Eating a balanced diet
• Getting regular physical activity

Wear a bra with removable padding so you can place dressings inside, or try HS-specific clothing like HidraWear, which is designed to hold dressings in place.

Successfully managing your HS can help you feel better, both physically and emotionally.

Bandage Your Wounds With Care

Learning how to bandage HS lesions around your breasts can help ease discomfort in this sensitive area. Your doctor or wound care specialist can show you safe and effective techniques. A few tips to consider:

• Wear a bra with removable padding so you can place dressings inside, or try HS-specific clothing like HidraWear, which is designed to hold dressings in place.
• Use self-adhesive dressings, or repurpose items like menstrual pads or nursing pads for coverage and absorption.
• Choose gentle wound tape, such as paper tape or dressing retention tape, to avoid irritating the affected area.
• Ask your doctor about insurance coverage for specialty wound care supplies.

Quit Smoking

Research shows that 70 percent to 90 percent of people who develop HS also smoke cigarettes. Quitting smoking may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of flare-ups. If you smoke, talk with your doctor about tools and programs to support your quit plan.

Consider a Skin-Friendly Diet

What you eat may affect your HS. There’s no single “HS diet,” but some people find that avoiding certain foods can reduce symptoms. Small studies suggest that limiting the following may help:

• Dairy products (cheese, butter, and cow’s milk)
• Sugary foods and drinks (soda and candy)
• Brewer’s yeast, found in products like soy sauce, beer, and wine

Eating a balanced diet can support hormone and blood sugar balance and lower inflammation. Also consider:

• Cutting back on sugar and processed foods
• Adding more high-fiber foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Including omega-3 fatty acids, found in salmon, sardines, olive oil, and walnuts

Some people benefit from following a Mediterranean-style or plant-based diet. Before making major changes, ask your doctor or a registered dietitian for guidance.

Ask Your Doctor About Weight Loss

Some people notice improvements in their HS symptoms after weight loss. Research suggests that losing 15 percent of body weight may help if you have a body mass index (BMI) in the overweight or obesity category. Weight loss may make the most difference in the early stages of HS, before tunnels form under the skin.

It’s important to note that not everyone with HS has a high body weight, and not everyone sees symptom improvement with weight loss. If you’re curious whether weight may be playing a role in your HS, talk to your doctor about a safe and supportive plan.

Practice Self-Care

In the early stages of HS or between flares, gentle at-home care may help reduce irritation:

• Avoid harsh products, such as antiseptics or scrubbing tools like loofahs or brushes. (HS is not caused by poor hygiene.)
• Shave carefully, especially near the breasts and armpits, to avoid irritating the skin.
• Clean the area daily using a gentle antibacterial soap or cleanser.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing and bras made from soft fabrics to reduce friction.
• Apply a warm compress or heating pad to the area for 10 minutes at a time to help relieve pain.
• Keep the area cool and dry to reduce sweat and moisture buildup.

Some members have offered their recommendations for managing HS around the breasts. “Keep a bandage in your bra,” one wrote. “Use Hibiclens to keep it germ-free.”

HS symptoms in the breast area can be painful and frustrating, but you’re not alone, and help is available. Talk with your dermatologist about treatment options, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through on myHSteam.

Join the Conversation

On myHSteam, people share their experiences with hidradenitis suppurativa, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

How do you deal with HS symptoms around your breasts? Let others know in the comments below.

Still have questions about your condition? I can help.