Hidradenitis Suppurativa Can Appear in Seven Body Areas

HS commonly appears in areas prone to sweat and friction, including the underarms, breasts, groin, inner thighs, buttocks, nape of the neck, and waistband area. Friction from skin rubbing on skin or clothing may trigger flares. Genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors may play a role in HS, though the exact cause isn’t known. If you suspect you have HS, talk with a dermatologist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Despite the appearance of some blemishes on the body, no one has perfectly smooth skin over the entirety of their body. These issues generally go away after the blocked follicle, clogged pore, or minor skin irritation resolves. But hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is different. HS is a chronic, progressive skin condition that typically appears as boil-like lumps in some of your most sensitive regions (and beyond). HS lumps or bumps can form interconnected tracts underneath the skin that may become inflamed and infected, causing discomfort and pain. Although infections are often a part of HS, the disease itself is not an infection — it’s due to an ongoing inflammatory response in the body. In addition to causing pain and discomfort, HS can be extremely frustrating and impact your self-esteem. Identifying HS correctly and early is crucial for getting optimal care, easing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving your mental health. While we don’t know what exactly causes HS, genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors may play a role. Skin regions prone to HS include those where we sweat often and where friction is super common. Friction can occur from skin rubbing on skin, or where clothing can chafe or rub. Here are seven areas of the body that are often impacted by HS. Armpits are packed with hair follicles and apocrine glands, making them a common spot for HS. Friction and chafing can also cause an HS flare-up, especially in areas where antiperspirants or deodorants are applied. Breasts, including underneath and on the areolae, are another frequent spot for HS. Chafing from bras or other clothing can trap sweat and bacteria on the skin, contributing to an HS flare. The groin area contains apocrine glands and hair follicles that can become blocked as part of HS, leading to a flare. Inner thighs are also prone to HS, with sweat and skin-on-skin friction contributing to flares. Buttocks are a common area for HS, with areas like the anus, butt crack, and gluteal fold being affected. The nape of the neck and waistband area can also be impacted by HS, with friction and chafing triggering flares. Research on the connection between HS and hormones is ongoing, with more studies needed to understand the role of sex hormones in the disease.