Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses, and tunnels (sinus tracts) to form under the skin, most often in areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts.
What causes it?
The exact cause of HS isn't fully understood, but researchers believe it starts with blocked hair follicles that become inflamed and infected. Several factors are known to raise the risk, including:
- Genetics — HS often runs in families.
- Hormones — flare-ups are common around puberty and can worsen with hormonal shifts.
- Smoking — strongly linked to both the onset and severity of HS.
- Weight and metabolic factors — excess weight can increase friction and inflammation.
- Immune system response — HS is considered an inflammatory condition, similar in some ways to conditions like Crohn's disease.
HS is not caused by poor hygiene, and it isn't contagious.
Care tips for living with HS
- Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction on affected areas.
- Keep skin clean and dry using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.
- Avoid smoking where possible, since it's one of the biggest modifiable risk factors.
- Manage weight with the support of a healthcare provider, as this can reduce flare frequency for some people.
- Warm compresses can help ease discomfort during a flare.
- Track your triggers in a journal to spot patterns around diet, stress, or clothing.
- See a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, since HS can range from mild to severe and often benefits from medical care.
How ingredients like the ones in The Earnest Oil can help
Alongside medical care, some people look for gentle, natural products to support flare-prone skin. The Earnest Oil is formulated with a blend of botanicals chosen for their traditional skin-soothing properties:
- Tea Tree Oil — known for natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that help keep pores clear.
- Clove Oil — rich in eugenol, traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and pain-easing qualities.
- Comfrey — a time-honored herb associated with soothing irritated, damaged tissue.
- Vitamin E — an antioxidant that helps nourish and protect the skin barrier.
- Arnica — traditionally used to calm swelling and inflammation in flare-prone areas.
- Tamanu Oil — valued for its restorative, tissue-soothing properties.
- Goldenseal — a botanical long used for its natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
- Rosemary Oil — supports circulation and brings antioxidant protection to the skin.
The formula is free from steroids, synthetic fragrances, and harsh chemicals, and is applied around (not directly on) open lesions during active flares. As with any new skin care product, patch test first and check with your dermatologist before adding it to your routine, especially if you're managing a diagnosed condition like HS.
You can browse the full ingredient list and how-to-use details on the The Earnest Oil product page, or explore more at earnestremedies.co.
This article is for general informational purposes only and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice. If you suspect you have HS, please consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider.