Hidradenitis Suppurativa – When “Ingrown Hairs” Aren’t Just Ingrowns

Dear BVTalks,
I’ve been getting these painful lumps in my groin for years. They swell up, burst, and sometimes drain for days. My doctor said they were infected hair follicles and to use warm compresses, but they keep coming back. Now I have scars and tunnels under my skin. Is there anything else this could be?
— Hurting and Tired, 29

If you have recurring, painful lumps in your groin or inner thighs—especially ones that drain or scar—you might be dealing with hidradenitis suppurativa.

HS is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. It’s not an infection, and it’s not your fault.

Signs to look for:
Painful lumps or cysts that flare repeatedly
Tunnels under the skin (called sinus tracts)
Scarring over time
Flares triggered by heat, friction, hormones, or stress

Treatment options:
Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications
Biologics—like Humira, approved for HS
Warm compresses and gentle skincare
Referral to a dermatologist with HS experience

You deserve more than “just wash better.” This is a medical condition, and early treatment can help prevent scarring and pain.

BVTalks