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Real members of myHSteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Any Tips For Flare Ups Under The Arms And In Groin?

A myHSteam Member asked a question 💭
Scotland uk

I’m 19 years old and got diagnosed with this condition in 2019, I had an operation in august 2022 of an incision and drainage under my left arm, this seems to have made it worse and now is constantly reoccurring causing severe pain and restricted mobility. I also have got a flare up under my right arm but this has not been operated on as of yet. It is making its way down into my arm and is very uncomfortable. I am awaiting plastic surgeons and I am on 3 months of lymecycline…any tips for… read more

January 11
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A myHSteam Member

Certainly! Here are some tips for managing hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) flare-ups under the arms and in the groin:

Under the Arms
- Avoid Shaving: Don’t shave near breakouts to prevent irritation.
- Gentle Products: Avoid harsh, fragranced products like lotions, perfumes, or body sprays.
- No Cleaning Tools: Avoid using Show Full Answer

Certainly! Here are some tips for managing hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) flare-ups under the arms and in the groin:

Under the Arms:
- Avoid Shaving: Don’t shave near breakouts to prevent irritation.
- Gentle Products: Avoid harsh, fragranced products like lotions, perfumes, or body sprays.
- No Cleaning Tools: Avoid using loofahs or brushes on the skin.
- Daily Cleaning: Clean the underarms daily with antibacterial or antiseptic soap to prevent infections.
- Loose Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent friction.
- Warm Compress: Use a warm compress or heating pad frequently.
- Keep Cool and Dry: Ensure your skin stays cool and dry.
- Member Tips:
- Soak a clean washcloth in diluted white vinegar and apply it to reduce odor.
- Use ice packs and lidocaine for mild pain.
- Take hot baths with a little tea tree oil for antibacterial benefits.

In the Groin:
- Warm Compress: Use a warm compress and ensure the breakout area is clean.
- Experiment with Products: Try different bandaging products until you find what works best.
- Member Tips:
- Use cloth bandages (Band-Aid brand or Elastoplast) and gauze.
- Take bleach baths during flare-ups.
- Make bandages from paper towels and wound tape, ensuring a layer between the wound and clothes.
- Use Duoderm and Tegaderm bandages, and apply silver powder to help healing.
- Apply Neosporin to promote healing and reduce infection risk.

General Tips:
- Seek Professional Help: If you struggle with bandaging, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional.
- Take Notes: Document challenges and bring notes to your appointments to discuss with your doctor.
- Connect with Others: Join myHSteam to ask questions, give advice, and share stories with others who understand HS.

These tips can help manage symptoms and improve comfort during flare-ups. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

July 9
A myHSteam Member

Dial soap bacterial, hibiclens and clyndamyacin prescription. I sores won't come to a head use Vicks vapor and cover it. Reduce sugar.

January 21
A myHSteam Member

Neosoporin works under my arms. Still a little draining but pain basically gone.

January 13
A myHSteam Member

Don't put deodorant on it, try to dry it out with saltwater, wash with hibiclense, use germolene and PRIM on it. There's lots of other good suggestions on this site. But as someone who has suffered with this agony for 28 years, I can tell you that sometimes nothing works. Good luck

January 11

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