Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory, debilitating skin disease that affects 1-4% of the general population. HS typically presents after puberty with painful, deep-seated lesions most commonly in areas such as the underarm, under the breast, buttocks, thighs and groin but it can occur almost anywhere on the body. HS lesions can leak exudate which can be very painful and cause a lot of distress for the preson living with the disease.
Natural HS Treatments
There are loads of natural treatments that you can use to try and help reduce your HS symptoms, ranging from adopting a hidradenitis suppurativa diet to hair removal.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is known for being a strong anti-inflammatory and antiseptic benefits. If kept in the fridge, the coldness of the aloe vera can be very soothing to inflamed areas of the skin. Make sure to use pure aloe vera gel with no additives for best results.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can be used to prevent bacterial infections from developing. Put a small amount of diluted apple cider vinegar onto a cotton pad and apply it gently to the affected area.
Bleach bath
Bleach baths have been known to help some people with HS but they can be very harsh on the skin so consult with your doctor before using this treatment.
Add anti-inflammatory foods to kickstart your hidradenitis suppurativa diet
These following foods can help prevent and reduce swelling and inflammation:
- Cinnamon
- Dark chocolate
- ginger
- Green tea
- Salmon
Honey
Honey has long been used as a home treatment due to its healing, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help prevent infection.
Some people apply honey by itself or mix it with turmeric for added power. They then apply it directly to the affected area and leave it on fo 15-2o minutes and wash it off gently.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is commonly used to treat acne due to its abilities to help reduce bacteria, redness and inflammation. Its high fatty-acid content can also help heal scars.
Rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a strong disinfectant. It can help to remove dirt from clogged pores and avoid infection. Do not use on open wounds.
Tea tree oil
Like honey, tea tree oil has been used for years for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can add a few drops to your bath or mix with a carrier oil and apply directly to the skin. Never apply undilated tea tree oil to the skin.
Tumeric
Tumeric is known to have strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It may also help reduce inflammation and prevent infection from developing.
Warm compress
A warm compress can significantly help reduce pain in any affected areas. For best results, use a dry source of heat like a heating pad instead of a hot washcloth. Keeping the area dry will help it to heal faster.
Zinc
Many HS patients have said that zinc helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the body and may be a great addition to any hidradenitis suppurativa diet.
Tips for prevention
Try to incorporate these tips into your daily life to help prevent Hidradenitis Suppurativa flare-ups.
Hair removal
Removing the hair from your underarm and pubic area may help to prevent future flare-ups. However, do not shave these areas during a flare-up. This will only irritate the skin further.
Keep the area dry
Bacteria and fungi thrive in moist areas that is why keeping the affected area dry is hugely important.
Maintain a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight improves your overall health and means there is less of a chance of friction when the skin rubs together.
Quit Smoking
Like maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking will improve your overall health and fitness.
Stay clean
Shower daily and use noncomedogenic body wash to wash away dirt and bacteria while making sure your pores won’t get clogged up.
Wear comfortable clothing
Cotton clothing is a good option. It is breathable, doesn’t hold moisture and won’t run against your skin so there is no added aggravation. It should help keep your skin clean, fry and bacteria-free.
If you are currently going through a flare-up in your underarm, use HidraWear AX to dress your wounds. HidraWear does not use any adhesives so it won’t be damaging to your skin.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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