Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) can be challenging, especially when flare-ups impact your skin. To manage your symptoms effectively, it’s important to understand how your daily habits may contribute to irritation or discomfort. In this blog post, we’ll cover five things you should stop doing if you have HS so you can take control of your condition and support your skin’s healing process.
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Stop Wearing Traditional Deodorant
One of the first things to consider if you have HS is ditching traditional deodorants. Many store-bought deodorants and antiperspirants contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, and aluminum. These culprits can clog your pores and irritate the sensitive skin in areas where HS commonly occurs, such as the underarms. These ingredients can lead to flare-ups or worsen the condition over time.
While new into my journey of managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa, my underarms were so congested and inflamed. It got to the point where I had no hair growth. Things got so bad that I couldn’t take it anymore, and I quit wearing traditional deodorant cold turkey. My underarms were so itchy because of the deodorant. As time passed, I noticed that my skin began to heal, and my hair resumed growing.
What to do instead: Switch to a natural deodorant that is free of chemicals, aluminum, and fragrances. Look for products specifically designed for sensitive skin. Preferably with antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil or zinc oxide to help manage odor while being gentle on HS-affected areas.
As I looked for alternative deodorant options, I came across Thai Crystal Deodorant Mist. This natural deodorant spray uses crystallized mineral salts to kill odor-causing bacteria. This deodorant contains no harmful chemicals, oils, perfumes, or emulsifiers. It’s just pure and natural. Most importantly, this product contains no forms of aluminum that can clog pores or be absorbed in the body.
Stop Caring for Your HS-Affected Skin Like the Rest of Your Skin
It’s easy to assume that your skincare routine can be applied to all parts of your body. However, that’s not the case. When managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa, the areas affected by HS require special attention and products. Over time, what I’ve learned is that treating them like the rest of your skin can do more harm than good.
What to do instead: Use products that are tailored to soothe and support healing. This includes gentle, fragrance-free cleansers, creams, and treatments that focus on reducing inflammation and preventing infection. Ingredients like aloe vera, salicylic acid, and niacinamide are often beneficial for HS skin. Avoid scrubbing too hard or using abrasive exfoliants, as these can further irritate already inflamed skin.
Related Post: How to Create a Skincare Routine for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Stop Wearing Tight Clothing
Tight clothing can aggravate HS flare-ups, especially when fabrics rub against inflamed areas. Wearing tight, non-breathable fabrics, such as synthetic materials, traps moisture and increases friction, creating an environment where bacteria thrive, ultimately worsening your condition.
What to do instead: Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo. These materials allow air to circulate, keeping moisture levels low and minimizing friction. In addition, clothing designed with flat seams or tagless designs should be considered to reduce irritation further.
Stop Ignoring Your Diet’s Impact on Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa
What you eat plays a significant role in managing HS flare-ups. Many people Living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa find that their symptoms are triggered by certain foods. Particularly those that cause inflammation in the body, such as dairy, sugar, and highly processed foods.
What to do instead: Focus on a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish or flaxseed. Some people also find relief from cutting out dairy or gluten. Keeping a food journal can help you identify which foods might be worsening your HS symptoms.
Related Post: Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa Flares
Stop Skipping Self-Care and Stress Management
HS flare-ups are often triggered by stress, so it’s crucial not to overlook the impact that emotional and physical stress can have on your condition. Focusing solely on physical treatments and neglecting your mental health may slow down your healing process.
What to do instead: Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. Prioritizing sleep, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining a balanced work/school-life schedule can also contribute to reduced HS flare-ups. Managing your physical and emotional well-being is key to successfully managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
By stopping these five common habits—using traditional deodorants, treating your HS-affected skin like the rest of your skin, wearing tight clothing, ignoring your diet’s impact, and neglecting self-care—you can take meaningful steps toward improving your condition. Learning to care for your body in a way that supports healing and reduces irritation is essential for living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
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