Sometimes, people online suggest unusual ways to treat hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). While it can be tempting to try new treatments you see on social media, especially when HS is painful and hard to manage, not all home remedies are safe or effective.

One idea that has been discussed is injecting hydrogen peroxide into cysts, boils, or abscesses. However, injecting anything at home — unless it’s a prescribed medication from your healthcare provider — is never a good idea. Here’s what you need to know about HS treatment and why hydrogen peroxide injections aren’t recommended.

What Is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical made by adding an extra oxygen atom to a water molecule. This creates a process called oxidation, which helps hydrogen peroxide kill germs. This is why hydrogen peroxide makes a great disinfectant. It’s often used to clean surfaces in areas like the bathroom or kitchen.

While hydrogen peroxide was once a common first-aid item, doctors no longer recommend using it on open wounds or anywhere on your body. If it’s not safe for your skin, it’s definitely not safe to inject into your body.

In some cases, hydrogen peroxide has been used to help drain and cleanse abscesses by removing debris and bacteria within the cyst. However, this isn’t a widely accepted treatment because there’s not enough evidence to prove it works, and it can damage tissue.

Hydrogen peroxide can irritate your skin and may even slow down healing. Since hidradenitis already causes painful lesions, abscesses, and tunnels, it’s important to avoid anything that can slow down the wound healing process.

Risks of Injecting Irritating Substances

Injecting yourself with anything, especially irritating substances like hydrogen peroxide, can be dangerous. Besides irritating already sensitive skin, there’s a risk of infection. Even if you follow good practices — like using a clean needle only once and not sharing needles — you can’t completely eliminate this risk.

Introducing an infection into skin already affected by HS can make things much worse and lead to serious complications. The potential harm far outweighs any possible benefit.

Safer Alternatives: Antiseptic Products

Instead of injecting anything, try using antiseptic products on your skin. These creams, ointments, or washes can help kill germs and prevent infections in HS lesions. Some of the most effective options require a prescription, but there are also over-the-counter options.

You can also find antiseptic body washes over the counter. These often contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide (not the same as hydrogen peroxide) or chlorhexidine.

If you’re dealing with hidradenitis suppurativa, it’s important to see a dermatologist. They can help you find treatments that work for you.

Finding a dermatologist who knows how to treat HS can be hard. The HS Foundation has an online tool to help you find providers in the U.S. Your dermatologist can also help you find ways to reduce the cost of your prescriptions, so you’re less likely to try unproven or unsafe home remedies.

If creams and washes don’t work well for you, your dermatologist may recommend systemic medications (pills or injections) to better control your symptoms. If these don’t fully help, there are other treatments your doctor can explore. Always work with a dermatologist to create a personalized plan that’s right for you.

Talk With Others Who Understand

At myHSteam, you’ll find the social network for people with hidradenitis suppurativa and their loved ones. On myHSteam, more than 56,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with hidradenitis suppurativa.

Have you found a topical antiseptic that works well for you? What is it, and how do you use it? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.