How to Treat 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 (HS) is a chronic skin condition characterised by painful lumps, abscesses, and tunnels (sinus tracts) forming under the skin, usually in areas with sweat glands such as:

• Armpits
• Groin
• Buttocks
• Under the breasts

These lesions can become inflamed, rupture, and discharge pus, leading to scarring over time. [1]

What Causes Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

The exact cause of HS is not fully understood, but research suggests it begins with inflammation and blockage of hair follicles rather than a primary infection.

Factors believed to contribute include:

• Genetic predisposition (HS often runs in families)

• Hormonal influences

• Immune system dysfunction

• Chronic inflammation

• Friction, heat, and sweating

Although bacteria can infect open lesions, HS itself is not considered contagious. [2]

How to get rid of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Naturally?

Natural at-home care focuses on reducing bacteria, calming inflammation, supporting healing, and protecting the skin barrier.

Helpful approaches include:

• Using gentle antibacterial cleansers to keep affected areas clean

• Applying anti-inflammatory creams to soothe irritation

• Avoiding harsh chemicals and aggressive treatments

• Supporting skin health through diet and lifestyle changes

Ingredients such as tea tree oil are known for their antibacterial properties, while Aloe Vera helps calm inflammation and promote healing.

3 Steps to Use Our Tea Tree Skincare Trio for HS

1. Tea Tree Soap Bar

   • Gently rub the bar directly onto warm, wet skin

   • Leave on for at least 2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm (not hot) water

   • Finish with a few splashes of cool water to help close pores

   • Pat dry gently with a clean towel

   • Rinse the soap bar and allow it to drain to extend its life

2. Tea Tree Light Cream

   • Use sparingly once daily at first

   • Apply gently and allow it to absorb fully

   • Increase to twice daily only if additional moisturising is needed

3. Tea Tree Oil (Optional Boost)

   • For infected or inflamed areas, add 1–3 drops to the cream before applying

   • Can also be used in a bath or warm compress

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Natural Remedy >

How to Help Prevent HS Flare-Ups

Practical daily habits can make a meaningful difference:

• Keep affected areas clean using a gentle antibacterial wash

• Apply an antimicrobial cream with Aloe Vera to soothe irritation

• Use warm compresses to ease pain and encourage drainage

  • A clean cloth soaked in warm water with a few drops of tea tree oil can be especially soothing

• Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimise friction

• Choose a natural organic deodorant free from parabens, alcohol, baking soda, and synthetic fragrance

• Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can increase friction and inflammation

• Adopting a nutritious diet rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant foods can help reduce flare-ups and support weight loss.

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation

HS affects everyone differently, and finding the right routine takes time. Our HS Sample Pack includes products in sample sizes, making it ideal for patch testing on your unique skin.

Things to Avoid if You Have Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Certain habits can unintentionally worsen symptoms:

• Avoid scrubbing the skin aggressively, as this increases inflammation

• Be cautious with shaving and avoid waxing

  • Use an antibacterial cleanser beforehand and a natural conditioner with Aloe Vera as a shaving aid

• Consider reducing or eliminating dairy and yeast, which may contribute to inflammation and bacterial imbalance

• Avoid excessive heat, sweating, and overheating by:

  • Limiting activity in hot environments

  • Staying in cool indoor spaces

  • Going outdoors during cooler parts of the day

• If you smoke, quitting can significantly reduce flare-ups and prevent progression of HS

Living with HS can be challenging, but small, consistent steps can make a big difference. Gentle skincare, mindful lifestyle choices, and patience with your body are key. You’re not alone on this journey - and with the right tools and support, managing hidradenitis suppurativa can become far more manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Is hidradenitis suppurativa contagious?
No. HS is not contagious and cannot be spread through skin contact. It is an inflammatory condition related to hair follicles, genetics, and immune system responses.

Why does HS keep coming back?
HS is a chronic condition, meaning symptoms can return even after lesions heal. Flare-ups are often triggered by inflammation, friction, sweating, hormonal changes, stress, or certain foods.

Can natural remedies really help HS?
While natural remedies cannot cure HS, many people find they help reduce irritation, calm inflammation, and support healing. Gentle antibacterial cleansers, anti-inflammatory creams, and consistent skincare routines can make symptoms more manageable.

Is tea tree oil safe for HS-prone skin?
When properly diluted and used in high-quality formulations, tea tree oil is generally well tolerated. It offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits that may help support HS-prone skin without harsh chemicals.

How long does it take to see improvement?
Everyone’s skin is different, but many people notice reduced redness, less irritation, and improved comfort within a few weeks of consistent use. Natural approaches work gradually, so patience and regular care are important.

Should HS lesions be squeezed or drained at home?
No. Squeezing or picking at HS lesions can increase inflammation, lead to infection, and worsen scarring. Warm compresses and gentle care are a safer way to support natural drainage.

Does diet really affect hidradenitis suppurativa?
For some people, yes. Reducing inflammatory foods such as dairy, yeast, and highly processed foods may help decrease flare-ups. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports overall skin and immune health.

Ready to Support Your Skin Naturally?

If you’re looking for a gentle, natural way to manage hidradenitis suppurativa, our HS Natural Remedy Pack is designed to support HS-prone skin by calming inflammation, reducing bacteria, and promoting healing - without harsh chemicals.

✔ Suitable for sensitive skin
✔ Ideal for HS flare-ups and daily maintenance
✔ Perfect for patch testing and building a consistent routine

Try our natural remedy pack here and take the next step toward calmer, more comfortable skin with ingredients that work with your body, not against it.

Related articles:

Tea Tree Essential Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair

Is Organic Skincare better for you?

References

1. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Hidradenitis suppurativa. available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hidradenitis-suppurativa/symptoms-causes/syc-20352306
2. NHS. (2023). Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hidradenitis-suppurativa/
   

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