Will These Boils Ever Stop? Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Will These Boils Ever Stop? Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa

If you've been struggling with painful, recurring boils under your arms, around your groin, or under your breasts, you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault! You may be dealing with a chronic skin condition known as Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS).??These aren’t just regular pimples or infected hair follicles (boils). HS is a chronic skin disease that affects both the skin and your quality of life. You might feel frustrated, embarrassed, or even hopeless at times—especially when the boils just keep coming back.??But here's the good news: HS is treatable. With the right care and a personalized approach, you can find relief and take back control of your skin. Contact us today if you are having issues with this often difficult condition. 

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes painful, boil-like nodules to form in areas where skin rubs together—like the armpits, groin, buttocks, under the breasts, and inner thighs. These lesions can rupture, ooze pus, and eventually form tunnels under the skin known as sinus tracts.??HS can range from mild (a few scattered nodules) to severe (extensive inflammation, scarring, and drainage). It’s often misdiagnosed early on as infected cysts, ingrown hairs, or folliculitis.

What Causes HS?

The exact cause of HS isn’t fully understood, but we do know that it’s not an infection, not caused by poor hygiene, and not contagious. It is believed to involve:?

• Inflammation around hair follicles?
• Blocked sweat or oil glands?
• Genetics – it often runs in families?
• Immune system dysfunction?

Certain lifestyle and environmental factors may contribute to flares, including:?

• Friction and heat?
• Smoking?
• Excess weight?
• Hormonal shifts (e.g., during menstruation).

Common Signs and Symptoms

Wondering if your boils could be HS? Look for these key signs:

• Recurring painful lumps or abscesses in the armpits or groin?
• Nodules that rupture and drain foul-smelling fluid?
• Double-ended blackheads (a hallmark sign of HS)?
• Formation of tunnels or tracks under the skin (sinus tracts)
• Scarring in the areas of repeated boils??

If you’ve had two or more boils in the same area in 6 months, that’s a major red flag for HS.

Why Do the Boils Keep Coming Back?

Unlike a one-time infection or cyst, HS is a chronic, recurring condition. Once inflammation is triggered in a particular area, it can return again and again. Over time, untreated HS can progress and lead to deep scarring and sinus tract formation, making it even more difficult to treat.??

That’s why early diagnosis and dermatologic treatment for HS are key.

Stages of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Hurley Staging System)

HS is classified into three stages:?

Stage I: Single or multiple isolated abscesses without scarring or tracts.?

Stage II: Recurrent abscesses with sinus tracts and scarring, but still localized.?

Stage III: Extensive disease with interconnected tracts and widespread scarring.??

Knowing your stage helps guide treatment decisions.

Treatment Options: Yes, There Is Hope

The goal of hidradenitis suppurativa treatment is to reduce flares, manage pain, and prevent progression. Depending on your severity, your dermatologist may recommend:??

• Topical Treatments:?
  • Antibiotic solution, lotion or gel?
  • Antiseptic washes or cleansers
• Oral or Injectable Medications:?
  • Antibiotics such as doxycycline or clindamycin/rifampin
  • Hormonal therapy like spironolactone or oral contraceptives?
  • Oral retinoids such as isotretinoin or acitretin?
  • Biologic therapies like adalimumab (Humira), Cosentyx, or Bimzelx
• In-Office Procedures:?
  • Incision and drainage (I&D)?
  • Laser hair removal for HS?
  • Surgical excision of HS tracts??
• Holistic Changes:?
  • Eat a low inflammatory diet (rich in vegetable, less red meat, less dairy)
  • Quit smoking or using tobacco products (quit vaping as well)
  • Wear breathable, non-restrictive clothing?
  • Use antiseptic washes?
  • Work on weight reduction
  • Remove stress from your life

Living with HS: What Patients Often Ask

“Is there a cure?”?No cure yet, but many treatments can dramatically reduce symptoms.??“Can diet help?”?Some people report improvement with anti-inflammatory diets, though results vary.??“How do I deal with the emotional side?”?Seek support through groups, therapy, or a trusted dermatologist.

Don’t Suffer in Silence

If you’ve been wondering “Will these boils ever stop?”—you deserve answers, relief, and compassionate care. Hidradenitis Suppurativa can be managed with the right treatment plan and support system.??

Early diagnosis of HS and customized treatment by a board-certified dermatologist are critical to improving your outcomes and quality of life.

We’re Here to Help

At Essential Dermatology Group,  our board-certified dermatologists specialize in treating HS and understand the emotional and physical toll it can take. We offer advanced hidradenitis suppurativa treatment in your area, from topical solutions to in-office procedures and biologic therapies.??Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin.