More commonly known as ‘acne inversa’, Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic progressive skin disorder resulting from inflamed and infected sweat glands. The condition manifests as lesions or lumps in areas of the body where chafing may occur, such as underarms, groin, and buttocks. These boils, ranging in size from a pea to a marble, may enlarge to require lancing and draining and can become quite painful if left untreated.
Though prescribed treatments are available, there is currently no cure for HS. There is also no clear cause for the disease, though more recent studies have suggested that it disproportionately affects the Black community, women especially, despite this demographic being underrepresented in the studies themselves. The field of dermatology is sadly still lacking ethnic diversity as well.
Currently available treatments, including corticosteroid injections, hormone therapy, and surgery can help the sufferer manage the symptoms better. Temporary relief does not guarantee that the boils won’t return, but some treatments can improve your quality of life enough to maintain confidence and keep you connected to the community.
If you have been diagnosed with HS, it’s important to remember that it’s not contagious, not a reflection of poor hygiene, and it does not only affect the overweight population. Increased risk factors for Black women include having a relative with HS, smoking, and already present autoimmune disorders that may trigger the condition.
Because the onset of HS starts around puberty, it may be perceived at first as cystic acne, which is why some experience delays in treatment, or even misdiagnosis. The most apparent difference between acne and HS is that HS recurs in the same areas and does not respond consistently, if at all, to over-the-counter medication.
RELATED: 8 Surprising Things Making Your Hidradenitis Suppurativa Worse
The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends the following for daily care and maintenance of HS:
Antimicrobial face wash: Look for a face wash that contains benzoyl peroxide or zinc pyrithione, as both are active ingredients that help reduce inflammation and slow future flare-ups.
No more scrubbing: Throw out the exfoliators, doctor’s orders. Scrubbing leads to further inflammation, which you’re trying to avoid.
Avoid waxing: If you absolutely must shave, do so carefully. Waxing will cause further irritation and