Treating your Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) naturally
Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) poses an array of challenges, but incorporating natural remedies and self-care practices into your strategy can aid in symptom relief and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa, often called HS, is a skin condition that causes painful bumps and boils to develop under the skin. These bumps or abscesses can be found in areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits, groin and buttocks. They can rupture, leading to the development of tunnels beneath the skin, which can cause further inflammation and scarring. HS is not only physically uncomfortable but can also have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, often causing embarrassment and emotional distress. While the exact cause of HS is not fully understood, it is believed to involve inflammation of the hair follicles and is more common in individuals with a family history of the condition.
Can Hidradenitis Suppurativa be cured?
Hidradenitis suppurativa, or HS, currently has no known cure, however lifestyle changes and natural treatments can help manage the symptoms and reduce flare-ups. While HS may not go away completely, with proper care, many people can find relief and better control of their symptoms, greatly improving their quality of life.
Which Essential Oils are good for HS?
Tea Tree Essential Oil and Benchmark Thyme Essential Oils are among the recommended options for managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). These essential oils possess natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in soothing the skin, reducing discomfort, and preventing infection. When diluted properly, Tea Tree and Benchmark Thyme Essential Oils can be applied topically to affected areas to help alleviate the symptoms of HS.
What is Benchmark Thyme?
Benchmark Thyme Oil is the result of many years of research and analysis into finding the best combination of different Thyme plants for skin application. It is a uniquely formulated blend of Thyme oils derived from four thyme cultivars. While certain aroma-chemicals such as terpinen-4-ol are present in Tea Tree oil and others like linalool can be found in normal Thyme oil, it is only in Benchmark Thyme that these and numerous other aroma-chemicals synergistically converge, making it truly unparalleled. This unique blend is powerful against bacteria but still gentle on the skin.
While you might associate this fragrant herb with the kitchen, it provides more than just flavour for your roast potatoes - there are a huge range of benefits that Benchmark Thyme can have on your body and mind.
How do you treat HS without medication?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can be challenging to manage, but there are some self-care strategies that may help alleviate symptoms and improve your comfort:
1. Keep the affected area clean: Cleanse your skin using an antimicrobial soap or wash, as it aids in diminishing the presence of bacteria on your skin. With reduced bacterial activity, you may experience a decrease in the frequency of flare-ups.
2. Apply an antimicrobial cream with Aloe Vera: Antimicrobial cream can be an effective step in soothing the discomfort associated with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). These creams are formulated to combat harmful bacteria that can exacerbate HS symptoms, providing relief and promoting healing. You can add a few drops of antimicrobial Benchmark Thyme or Tea Tree Essential Oil to the matching Light Moisturiser to increase it's potency.
3. Warm Compresses: Applying warm, moist compresses to HS-affected areas can help reduce pain and promote drainage of abscesses. Use a clean, warm, damp cloth for this purpose. Adding a few drops of Tea Tree or Benchmark Thyme Essential Oil to a bowl of warm water to dampen a cloth can help sooth and pacify inflammation.
4. Avoid Irritants: Wear loose-fitting clothing made of natural fabrics and washed in non-bio detergent to reduce friction and irritation.
5. Exercise caution when shaving or waxing: Dermatologists typically advise HS patients to avoid waxing altogether, as it can lead to skin irritation and potentially exacerbate the condition. If shaving, try using Tea Tree or Benchmark Thyme Conditioner or Soap.
6. Opt for a Natural Organic Deodorant: Certain products can be overly agressive on sensitive HS-prone skin. Seek out a deodorant that lacks alcohol, baking soda, parabens, dyes, or fragrances. These components may lead to skin irritation and trigger HS outbreaks. I love using this one for my sensitive skin:
7. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body weight can worsen HS symptoms. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise may help alleviate some of the discomfort.
8. Dietary Considerations: Some individuals find that certain foods, like dairy or processed sugars, can trigger HS flares. Keeping a food diary may help identify potential triggers. However, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider, dietitian or kinesiologist before making significant dietary changes.
9. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate HS symptoms, so consider incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation into your daily routine.
Remember that HS varies from person to person, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Our HS Sample Pack contains both Benchmark Thyme and Tea Tree products in sample sizes. Ideal for doing patch tests on your unique skin.
What triggers HS Flare-ups?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) flare-ups can be triggered by a variety of factors. These triggers may include friction or chafing in the affected areas, excessive sweating, hormonal changes, obesity, smoking, and genetics. Moreover, stress, certain foods, and clothing choices can also play a role in exacerbating symptoms. Identifying and managing these triggers is crucial for individuals with HS, as it can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups and improve their overall quality of life.
