Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a lifelong skin condition. Symptoms of HS can come and go and can greatly affect your quality of life and health. If you live with HS, it’s important to know your treatment options. Treatment can include a combination of products, medications, lifestyle changes, and mental health support.

Many people find that medical treatment doesn’t just happen at the doctor’s office. Over-the-counter (OTC) products also play a big role in reducing flare-ups and managing the disease. Here are five types of products to consider.

1. Pain Medicine

Managing pain is an essential part of HS care. Members of myHSteam have talked about using over-the-counter pain medications to help with pain from HS lesions, especially at night or during recovery after surgery.

Common OTC pain medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). These are best for short term relief. Long-term use can lead to side effects like stomach issues.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is another over-the-counter option for short-term pain relief. One member shared, “I have found that taking one 500 milligram Tylenol tablet helps ease the pain after it kicks in.”

Always inform your doctor about the OTC medications you take. They can help ensure you use them safely based on your medical history. If pain significantly affects your life, your doctor may refer you to specialists for further care.

2. Topical Creams and Ointments

Topical (applied to the skin) NSAIDs may not provide as much pain relief as NSAIDs taken orally (by mouth), but they have fewer side effects than oral options. If you’re worried about side effects from pills, topical NSAIDs can be a good choice.

Topical Lidocaine

Topical lidocaine is another ointment that can help numb the skin and relieve pain. Studies show topical lidocaine can be effective for long-term nerve pain caused by HS.

Resorcinol

Resorcinol is a cream available over the counter that helps decrease pain and swelling. It works by reducing inflammation and opening up clogged hair follicles (where hair grows from the skin). It may take three to four months to see results from resorcinol, so you need to apply it consistently.

Menthol-Based Products

You may also find relief from pain and itching by using menthol-based products, like Vicks VapoRub. One member shared how they relieve itching when trying to sleep. “I’ll get up and apply a small amount of Vicks. It literally starts working within minutes,” they wrote.

Aloe Vera Cream

Aloe vera cream can potentially help with HS due to its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and wound-healing properties.

Ointments may cause skin irritation for some people, which could worsen pain. Always test a small amount of the product on your skin before applying it widely. Don’t apply these ointments on open wounds, and always talk to your doctor before trying a new product.

3. Bleach and Epsom Salt Baths

Since HS affects the skin, bathing can be a helpful over-the-counter treatment option. If you have symptoms all over your body, baths can be beneficial. Bleach baths and Epsom salt baths are two types of bath treatments that may help your skin.

Bleach baths can help reduce skin inflammation, pain, and itching. While research on the effectiveness of bleach baths for HS is limited, it is still a common treatment option for people with HS, especially during flare-ups.

Epsom salt baths are another common treatment option for people with HS. Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, may help relax your muscles and relieve nerve pain.

4. Antiseptic Washes

People with HS may benefit from using antiseptic cleansers when bathing. These washes can be used on areas of skin affected by HS. If you’ve ever had surgery, your doctor may have advised you to use an antiseptic or antibacterial bodywash the day before your procedure. But many people with HS also use washes daily to help prevent infection.

For maximum effectiveness, leave the product on your skin for a few minutes before washing it off.

Chlorhexidine, zinc pyrithione, and benzoyl peroxide are types of OTC washes that may benefit your skin. While benzoyl peroxide is sold as a gel, lotion, and cream, most people with HS use it as a wash. In HS, bacteria and oil can get trapped in hair follicles. Benzoyl peroxide helps prevent bacteria from clogging the hair follicles by encouraging dead skin cells to slough off.

Your doctor may also recommend a prescription antibiotic, clindamycin, to use alongside an antiseptic wash for skin and wound care.

After using an antiseptic cleanser, it’s important to apply a good moisturizing lotion or cream. These cleaners can dry out your skin, and scratching dry, itchy skin can lead to inflammation and potential infections. Brands like Aveeno, CeraVe, Cetaphil, and Vanicream are known for being gentle on the skin. Ask your health care provider for recommendations for over-the-counter lotions. They might even have free samples to share with you.

5. Wound Dressings

People with HS may develop wounds that open and leak fluid, called abscesses. Your dermatologist will recommend ways you can care for your wounds, which can vary based on factors like the location of the wounds.

Some people use common household items from local pharmacies or stores to cover their wounds. Gauze, menstrual pads, and diapers can be absorbent and effective wound dressings. They may feel a little bulky and uncomfortable, but they are cheap and easy to find.

Your dermatologist may also recommend applying a washcloth soaked in diluted white vinegar to the wound to help reduce odor, if present.

Talk to your doctor about HS wound care to make sure you are properly treating the affected areas. Your doctor can also help you find out if your health insurance will help you cover the cost of wound care supplies.

Other Home Remedies and Tips

Here are a few additional things you can do at home to help manage HS symptoms and flare-ups.

Apply a Cold or Warm Compress

Applying a cold or warm compress can be soothing. Use something that is gentle on the skin, like a washcloth, and apply it to the affected areas for a few minutes. Make sure the temperature isn’t too cold or hot, as extreme temperatures can damage the skin.

Try a Black Tea Compress

Similar to a warm compress, you can also try a black tea compress. Soak a washcloth in warm black tea and apply it to your skin for 10 minutes at a time.

Prioritize Self-Care

Many people with HS experience mental health challenges, like anxiety and depression. In addition to talking to a mental health professional, consider practicing mindfulness or yoga to help ease symptoms.

Take Supplements

Taking certain supplements may be beneficial. Vitamin D, vitamin B3, vitamin B12, zinc, and magnesium have shown positive effects for people with HS. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.

Choose Proper Clothing

Choosing the right clothing can also help. Wear breathable, lightweight fabrics to limit sweating, which can trigger flare-ups. Materials like cotton or bamboo are good moisture-repellent options.

Choose a Safe Deodorant

HS commonly affects the armpits, which means choosing a deodorant that is safe for your skin is crucial. Look for products that are gentle on your skin. Avoid those with fragrance, alcohol, dyes, baking soda, or parabens, as these can irritate your skin.

Members of myHSteam share various over-the-counter remedies that help their skin. Always consult your health care team before adding a new product to your treatment plan. Even OTC products can interact with your other treatments or cause irritation.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myHSteam, the social network for people living with hidradenitis suppurativa and their loved ones, more than 44,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with HS.

What over-the-counter products do you use to improve your HS symptoms? Are there any particular brands or ingredients you prefer? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.