“HS Is Not Just a Skin Issue”: What Black Women Need to Know About This Silent Struggle and Natural Treatment Options

When it comes to health in our community, especially among Black women, too many conditions go undiagnosed, untreated, or flat-out ignored. One of those is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)—a painful, chronic skin condition that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. If you’ve ever dealt with mysterious bumps, painful boils under your arms, between your thighs, or under your breasts, this post is for you.

What Is HS?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a long-term skin disease that causes small, painful lumps under the skin. These lumps can become inflamed, drain pus, form tunnels under the skin (called sinus tracts), and lead to deep scars.

HS often shows up:

Underarms
Groin area
Under the breasts
Inner thighs
Buttocks

Why Black Women?

Research shows that Black women are about three times more likely to get HS than white women. Yet we’re often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.

Reasons why:

Our pain is frequently dismissed in medical settings
Skin issues on darker skin tones are often overlooked
Cultural taboos keep us from talking about it

The Emotional Toll

HS impacts more than just your skin—it hits your self-esteem, confidence, and even your sex life. The smell, the drainage, the scarring—it’s isolating. But remember: you are not alone, and you did nothing to deserve this.

Natural & At-Home Remedies for HS

If you’re dealing with HS, you may want to explore natural ways to ease symptoms—especially while you work with a doctor or wait for specialist care. Here are some holistic options that people with HS have found helpful:

1. Warm Compresses with Turmeric or Sea Salt

Why it helps: Heat helps reduce inflammation and drain clogged areas.
How to do it: Soak a clean towel in warm water with a pinch of turmeric or sea salt and apply it to the affected area for 10–15 minutes a few times a day.

2. Turmeric (Internally or Topically)

Why it helps: Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.
Use: Take turmeric supplements or add it to teas and smoothies. You can also make a paste with turmeric and honey and apply it directly to flare-ups.

3. Tea Tree Oil

Why it helps: It has antibacterial properties that can prevent infection.
How to use: Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and apply gently to affected areas. Do a patch test first to avoid irritation.

4. Zinc Supplements

Why it helps: Zinc supports skin healing and may reduce inflammation.
How to use: Take daily zinc supplements or apply zinc oxide creams (like diaper rash cream) directly on problem areas.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Why it helps: ACV has antimicrobial and astringent properties.
How to use: Mix with water (1:1 ratio) and use a cotton pad to dab the mixture on areas prone to flare-ups.

6. Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Why it helps: Some people with HS find relief by reducing inflammatory foods.
What to eat: Try increasing leafy greens, berries, turmeric, ginger, omega-3 rich foods (like salmon), and cutting down on dairy, sugar, and processed foods.
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Let’s End the Stigma

Black women are warriors—but we shouldn’t have to suffer in silence. HS is real, it’s painful, and it’s more common than people think. It’s time to open up, support each other, and demand better research and resources for our community.

And remember, while natural treatments can help manage HS, they’re not a cure. Always talk to a healthcare provider when you can—preferably one who understands skin of color and listens to Black women.