Skin condition
Hidradenitis suppurativa
A plain-English guide from Dr. Auston Eckert — what HS is, why it's so often missed, and how it's managed.
What's actually going on
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful, recurring lumps where skin rubs — underarms, groin, under the breasts. It's frequently mistaken for ordinary boils or 'poor hygiene,' which it is not, and it responds best to early, consistent care.
What tends to help
- Getting the right diagnosis early
- Gentle skin care and reducing friction
- Consistent medical treatment to calm flares
- Addressing pain — it's real and it matters
What I'd skip
- Squeezing or lancing lumps yourself
- Harsh scrubbing of the area
- Writing it off as recurring boils
Painful lumps that keep coming back?
Start a visit and I'll help you get a proper diagnosis and a plan — which may include prescription options, including compounded treatments, to calm flares.
Start a visitA simple supporting routine
Gentle, cosmetic basics that complement your routine. These support healthy-looking skin — they aren't a treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa. Treatment, where it's needed, comes from your visit.
Gentle Cleanser
Fragrance-free and non-stripping. Cleanses without the tight, squeaky feeling.