Top-Notch Soap Recommendations for Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa
For individuals living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic skin condition, maintaining a gentle and effective skincare routine is crucial. This condition, characterised by clogged hair follicles that rupture deep beneath the skin, can cause painful and inflamed lesions.
A daily skincare routine for HS should prioritise gentle, non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging), and anti-inflammatory ingredients while avoiding irritants and harsh exfoliants.
Recommended Products and Ingredients
Gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers, such as those avoiding harsh anionic surfactants and pore-clogging agents like lauric acid and stearic acid, are essential. CLn Acne Cleanser, containing salicylic acid and sodium hypochlorite, is an example of a cleanser that cleanses deeply while maintaining skin balance without irritation.
Moisturizers with barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide, which hydrate and calm sensitive skin without clogging pores, are also recommended.
Anti-inflammatory and soothing agents, such as azelaic acid, can be used a few times per week to reduce pigmentation and inflammation and are gentle on sensitive skin.
Herbal and organic topical treatments, including formulations with tea tree oil and other herbal extracts, may provide additional relief due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients to Avoid
Comedogenic ingredients, commonly found in some cosmetics and moisturizers, such as lauric acid, stearic acid, glyceryl stearate, and anionic surfactants, should be avoided as they can irritate the skin and worsen follicular occlusion.
Fragrances and harsh foaming agents that disrupt the skin barrier and increase irritation or sensitivity should also be avoided. Harsh physical exfoliants or aggressive scrubbing, which can worsen inflammation and skin damage in HS-affected areas, should be minimised.
Tight clothing and friction irritants should also be minimised as they can exacerbate body breakouts related to HS, especially in areas like underarms, groin, and under the sports bra line.
A Gentle Daily Routine
A gentle daily routine for HS management includes using a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily (e.g., CLn Acne Cleanser), applying a lightweight moisturizer with barrier-repair ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide, incorporating gentle anti-inflammatory treatments like azelaic acid a few times weekly, and avoiding occlusive, fragranced, or irritating ingredients.
Wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction and irritation is also recommended.
Natural Home Remedies
During HS flare-ups, natural home remedies can provide relief. A mixture of turmeric powder with coconut oil can be created to form a salve, offering anti-inflammatory properties. Warm compresses can also alleviate itching or pain during flare-ups and speed up draining.
Medical Treatments
If HS symptoms worsen or show signs of infection, medical evaluation is essential. Medical treatments such as bimekizumab (recently FDA-approved) may be indicated.
HS requires a different level of care than other irritable skin conditions like acne. Anti-inflammatory lotions, creams, and natural dressings can help with flare-ups. In the morning, a body wash or soap containing benzoyl peroxide and/or chlorhexidine is recommended. In the evening, applying a clindamycin solution or lotion to target bacteria and reduce inflammation in HS is beneficial.
Hibiclens®, a product containing chlorhexidine, is less likely to cause irritation and allergic reactions. Honey-infused dressings can help reduce the likelihood of scarring in HS.
Incorporating HS-friendly products into your daily skin care routine can help maintain healthy, moisturized, and strong skin despite having HS. Dr. Michelle Kerns recommends using products with anti-inflammatory ingredients and antibacterial properties to manage HS effectively.
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