Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide—yet it remains one of the most misunderstood conditions. Because HS often appears as painful lumps, boils, abscesses, and recurring flare-ups in sensitive areas of the body, many people face not only physical pain but also emotional distress caused by stigma, shame, and misinformation.
Unfortunately, myths about HS can delay diagnosis, prevent people from seeking proper care, and leave patients feeling isolated and misunderstood.
Let’s clear up some of the most common myths about HS.
Myth #1: HS Is Caused by Poor Hygiene
The Truth:
HS is not caused by being dirty or having poor hygiene.
This is one of the most hurtful and common misconceptions. HS is a chronic inflammatory condition related to hair follicles, the immune system, genetics, hormones, and inflammation—not cleanliness.
People with HS often practice excellent hygiene and still experience painful flare-ups. No amount of washing can “cure” HS.
Why This Myth Is Harmful:
It creates shame and embarrassment, causing many people to hide their symptoms instead of seeking medical help.
Myth #2: HS Is Just Bad Acne
The Truth:
HS is not acne, although it can sometimes be mistaken for it.
Unlike acne, HS often develops deep, painful nodules under the skin, tunnels (sinus tracts), drainage, scarring, and repeated flare-ups—especially in areas where skin rubs together like the underarms, groin, under the breasts, buttocks, and inner thighs.
HS is a chronic inflammatory disease, not simply a cosmetic skin issue.
Myth #3: HS Is Contagious
The Truth:
HS is not contagious.
You cannot catch HS from touching someone, sharing towels, hugging, or being close to someone with the condition.
Because lesions may drain or look infected, people often wrongly assume it can spread from person to person—but it cannot.
Why This Matters:
This myth can create unnecessary fear and social isolation for people already struggling emotionally.
Myth #4: Only Overweight People Get HS
The Truth:
HS can affect people of all body types.
While weight may influence friction and inflammation for some people, it is not the cause of HS. Thin people, athletes, teens, and people of all backgrounds can develop HS.
Blaming someone’s weight oversimplifies a complex medical condition.
Myth #5: Surgery Is the Only Solution
The Truth:
Treatment for HS is not one-size-fits-all.
Some people may benefit from surgery, while others manage HS through medication, lifestyle changes, wound care, nutrition support, stress management, and personalized care plans.
Many people need a combination of approaches.
The goal is not just symptom control—but improving quality of life.
Myth #6: HS Is Rare
The Truth:
HS is more common than many people realize.
It is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as boils, infections, or cysts. Many people live with symptoms for years before receiving the correct diagnosis.
The problem is not rarity—it is lack of awareness.
Myth #7: You Just Have to Live With It
The Truth:
You deserve support, education, and proper care.
While HS is a chronic condition, people can learn how to manage flare-ups, reduce triggers, advocate for themselves, and improve their quality of life.
Support systems matter. Education matters. Community matters.
You do not have to suffer in silence.
Final Thoughts
Living with HS is hard enough without the added burden of misinformation.
When myths are replaced with education, patients feel seen. When shame is replaced with support, healing becomes possible.
At International Association of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Network, we believe awareness leads to advocacy, and advocacy leads to better lives for people living with HS.
You are not alone.
You are not your diagnosis.
And your story matters.
