Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting hair follicles, leading to painful deep bumps, draining lesions, tunnels (sinus tracts), and scarring. HS is not an infection, not contagious, and not caused by poor hygiene—it is a medical condition requiring professional treatment.

HS most commonly affects:

• Underarms
  
• Groin
  
• Inner thighs
  
• Buttocks
  
• Under the breasts
  
• Around the waistline
  
• Lower abdomen
  

It is a long-term condition that flares and subsides, often worsening without treatment.

HS management is part of our comprehensive medical dermatology services.

Signs & Symptoms of HS

Patients may experience:

• Painful, deep-set nodules
  
• Boils or abscesses
  
• Tunnels under the skin (sinus tracts)
  
• Recurrent draining lesions
  
• Thickened, scarred skin
  
• Blackheads in pairs (“double-headed comedones”)
  
• Tender lumps that flare before menstruation (in women)
  

Symptoms often worsen with heat, friction, stress, tight clothing, and hormonal changes.

HS Treatment at MDCS Dermatology

HS treatment is personalized based on severity (Hurley Stage I–III). Options include:

• Topical medications

Antibacterial or anti-inflammatory creams for milder disease.

• Oral medications

Antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or anti-inflammatory medications.

• Biologic therapy

Advanced treatments such as adalimumab (Humira®) or other immunomodulators for moderate to severe HS.

• Intralesional steroid injections

Reduces swelling and pain during flares.

• Incision & drainage (select cases)

Provides relief by draining acute, painful lesions.

• Surgical management

For advanced HS, dermatologic surgeons can treat tunnels, scarring, or recurrent lesions.

• Lifestyle & skin care guidance

Including friction reduction, weight management, smoking cessation, and gentle skin care routines.

Some HS patients also benefit from treating post-inflammatory dark spots with chemical peels or smoothing residual texture with microneedling after inflammation is controlled.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your dermatologist will:

1. Assess the locations and severity of lesions
   
   
2. Determine your HS stage
   
   
3. Identify triggers or lifestyle contributors
   
   
4. Create a customized treatment plan
   
   
5. Provide a long-term strategy to minimize flares and scarring
   
   

Early diagnosis significantly improves long-term outcomes.

Why Choose MDCS Dermatology for HS?

• Experienced dermatologists specializing in HS
  
  
• Access to advanced biologic and immunologic therapies
  
  
• Comprehensive flare management
  
  
• Surgical options for tunnels or severe scarring
  
  
• On-site procedures for quick relief
  
  
• Multiple Manhattan, Long Island, and New Jersey locations
  
  

You’ll receive long-term support and a personalized plan for better symptom control.

 

Struggling with painful HS flare-ups or chronic bumps?
Schedule your hidradenitis suppurativa evaluation at MDCS Dermatology today.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes hidradenitis suppurativa?

HS is caused by inflammation of the hair follicles. It is not an infection and is not contagious. Genetics, hormones, and immune overactivity play major roles.

2. Is HS curable?

There is no cure, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly control symptoms and prevent progression.

3. Can HS be mistaken for something else?

Yes. HS is often mistaken for ingrown hairs, cysts, or recurrent boils. Dermatologists can confirm the diagnosis.

4. What triggers HS flare-ups?

Heat, sweating, shaving, tight clothing, stress, hormone shifts, friction, and smoking can contribute to flares.

5. How is HS treated?

Treatment depends on severity and may include topicals, oral medications, biologics, in-office procedures, or surgery for advanced disease.

6. Does HS cause scarring?

Yes. Untreated HS can lead to permanent scarring and tunneling. Early treatment reduces long-term damage.

7. Is HS genetic?

Many patients have a family history, suggesting a genetic component.

8. Where is HS treatment offered at MDCS?

Treatment is available at our Manhattan, Long Island, and New Jersey locations. Visit our locations page.