Summer’s warmth can be a double-edged sword for those living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). While the season invites outdoor activities, the accompanying heat and humidity often exacerbate HS symptoms. This guide offers practical strategies to navigate the challenges of summer, aiming to keep flare-ups at bay and enhance comfort during the hottest months.

Summer can be a particularly uncomfortable time for those living with HS. The combination of heat, humidity, and increased perspiration creates a perfect storm for flare-ups. As body temperature rises, sweat becomes trapped in skin folds—under the arms, between the thighs, under the breasts, or in the groin area. This moist environment, when combined with friction and bacterial growth, causes the skin to become irritated, inflamed, and susceptible to the painful boils, nodules, and abscesses that define HS.

Additionally, summer clothing trends like tighter outfits, synthetic fabrics, and frequent shaving can further aggravate these sensitive areas. Even outdoor activities—like hiking, gardening, or sports—can lead to excess moisture and chafing, triggering flare-ups that last for days or even weeks.

Learning to identify and control environmental triggers—such as time of day, clothing choices, and stress levels—can help individuals better manage summer flares and reduce their severity.

A targeted skincare routine can provide immense relief during hot weather. The goal is to minimize bacteria, reduce friction, calm inflammation, and keep the skin cool:

Always test new products on a small patch of skin to ensure they don’t trigger additional irritation.

What you wear in the summer matters. Certain fabrics and fits can either aggravate or soothe HS-affected areas:

Investing in the right clothing can make outdoor summer events feel more manageable and even enjoyable for those with HS.

While it’s true that intense sweating and friction can trigger flares, not all movement is bad for HS. In fact, regular low-impact activity can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support mental health, which are all essential for holistic HS management:

Always shower or wipe down immediately after working out and apply a soothing, antibacterial product if needed. This helps prevent clogged pores and irritation post-exercise.

HS often leaves behind hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and thickened scar tissue that can affect both physical and emotional well-being. While there’s no instant fix, consistent care can improve appearance over time:

Speak with a dermatologist who understands HS and skin of color to get the best treatment for your specific skin tone and condition.

The visibility of HS symptoms—such as open wounds, bandages, or scars—can deeply impact self-esteem. Many people feel pressure to hide their bodies during summer months, especially in a culture that equates beauty with smooth, unblemished skin.

Here are a few ways to protect and boost your confidence:

Confidence grows through community, compassion, and reclaiming your own voice and body.

HS requires more than occasional flare management—it demands a long-term, individualized care plan. Seeing a board-certified dermatologist, preferably one experienced in HS, is a game-changer.

Come prepared to your appointments with a symptom journal, photos of flares, and questions about treatment goals.

Navigating the summer months with HS requires a proactive approach to minimize flare-ups and maintain quality of life. By understanding triggers, utilizing appropriate skincare and clothing, engaging in suitable physical activities, and seeking professional guidance, individuals with HS can better manage their condition during the heat of summer.