HELP YOUR BLOCKED HAIR FOLLICLES AT HOME

When you’re carrying more pounds than you need, it can make your symptoms worse. It doesn’t take much weight loss to make a difference. Studies show that losing just 10% of your total weight can start to clear up your bumps.

When you have blocked hair follicles, smoking can make your symptoms worse.

When clothes rub against skin, it gets irritated and inflamed. If what you’re wearing feels tight, it adds pressure to skin and cuts off blood flow that can help with healing. Fabrics that trap sweat can lead to clogs and flares.

TAKE A SITZ BATH

What Works for Me

“When I get HS boils, I use antibiotic cream from my doctor and try to keep them covered to prevent pain from rubbing against clothes. For prevention, I use a body wash with tea tree oil in it.”

-Angie E., 39, Portland, OR

“Going gluten and dairy free really helped me. I went from 10–12 big sores at a time to 3–4 small ones.”

-Seema D., 45, Centreville, VA

“I swear by activated charcoal shower gel. I’ve been using it for three months since a terrible flare up, and haven’t had one since.”

-Janice S., 57, Washington, DC

“Antibacterial soap from the supermarket twice a day rubbed into my beard helped dry out my bumps until they flaked off.”

-Ken G., 42, Lawrenceville, GA

Questions For Your Doctor

More About Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

• What to Expect With Hidradenitis Suppurativa
• Problems HS Can Cause
• Quiz: Myths and Facts About HS
• Video: A Look Inside Blocked Hair Follicles

Read more on: skin problems and treatments