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If you develop thick, reddish-purple skin and hard lumps that begin oozing, you might have a serious skin problem called hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa. In some people, HS gets so bad that it becomes disfiguring. These boils can cause significant pain and noticeable odors and scars. You may feel self-conscious about your appearance. The good news is a few lifestyle changes can help you prevent flare-ups.
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1Be smart about your clothing.
Skinny jeans, snug waistbands and tight bra straps: items like these rub on the skin, triggering irritation and painful flare-ups. Instead, opt for relaxed-fit pants or skirts, flowy tops, and looser underwear. Women should still support their breasts, however, since skin that touches skin can also lead to acne inversa symptoms. Choose comfortable bras made out of moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics. And set up a proper bra fitting to make sure your band is not too tight. Many department and lingerie stores offer this service. Once you find the right bra, make sure you wash it once a week to get rid of oils and germs that may irritate your skin. It’s helpful to avoid laundry detergents with dyes and perfumes, as these chemicals may also aggravate the skin.
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2Lose weight.
Acne inversa is 10 times more common among obese people than those who are a healthy weight. Skin that rubs on skin can trigger inflammation and painful symptoms. It also traps moisture, which promotes the growth of germs that can lead to a secondary infection. The American Academy of Dermatology says that losing just 10% of your weight can make a big difference. (For someone who weighs 160 pounds, that means losing 16 pounds.) In fact, studies show weight loss may help manage your symptoms better than medicine. Additionally, dietary modification can improve the health and appearance of the skin. Avoiding dairy-rich and high-calorie foods may be beneficial to preventing acne inversa flare-ups.
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3Keep your cool.
Maintaining a cooler skin temperature can do wonders for those with acne inversa. Hot, sweaty skin can clog hair follicles, creating a friendlier environment for boils to form. Keep the A/C blasting during summer months and do your best to stay cool. You might not know that some types of antidepressant can cause your skin to heat up. If you take an antidepressant and are experiencing this side effect, talk with the doctor who prescribed the medication and ask if there is a different type that would be better for you.
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4Skip shaving.
Put the razor down, at least during flare-ups. Using a razor on irritated skin can make your symptoms even worse. If hair-free skin is a must, ask your doctor to recommend some safer methods.
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5Quit smoking.
It's always a healthy idea. If you have HS, smoking can make it more severe and quitting can reduce flare-ups.
