Underwear and Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Choosing Fabrics and Styles to Prevent Irritation

Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa with the Right Underwear

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a long-term skin condition that causes painful, inflamed lesions and boils in areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. The constant friction and moisture in these areas can lead to recurrent infections, tunneling wounds, and uncomfortable scarring. Finding the right underwear is crucial for minimizing discomfort and optimizing healing if you have HS.

How Does Underwear Impact HS?

Choosing underwear constructed with irritating fabrics or seams can worsen HS symptoms. Tight elastic bands dig into lesions. Wet, unbreathable materials create more moisture. Rubbing and chafing against sensitive skin causes further damage. The wrong underwear style and fit can make you more prone to new flares and infection in existing wounds.

Features to Look for in HS-Friendly Underwear

• Soft, smooth fabrics like cotton or microfiber
• Moisture-wicking and breathable material
• Tagless design with no irritating labels
• Covered waistbands and leg openings
• Comfortable elastic that doesn't dig in
• Loose fit to prevent friction and irritation
• Minimal seams or seam-free construction
• Antimicrobial properties to minimize odor and bacteria

Fabric Considerations for Sensitive HS Skin

Cotton

Cotton is a top choice for HS underwear because it's soft, breathable, and absorbs moisture away from wounds. Look for 100% cotton or cotton blends.

Silk

Silk underwear is ultra-smooth and gentle on lesions. The lightweight, breathable fabric won't stick to wounds. However, silk requires delicate laundering.

Bamboo Rayon

Bamboo fabric is naturally antimicrobial and temperature regulating. Bamboo rayon underwear is soft, cooling, and doesn't irritate sensitive HS skin.

Modal

Underwear made of modal or micro modal is silky, breathable, and antibacterial. However, modal loses its softness faster than cotton after repeated washing.

Choosing Underwear Styles for HS Comfort

Boxer Briefs

Men may find the thigh coverage of boxer briefs prevents rubbing and irritation. Look for loose legs with a covered waistband.

Boyshorts

For women, boyshort panties provide coverage while minimizing friction between thighs. Opt for loose cotton or microfiber boyshorts.

High-Waisted

High-rise waistbands help avoid constriction and irritation along lesions at the bikini line and groin.

Thongs

Contrary to belief, thong underwear with a cotton gusset can be a good option for women with HS. The minimized fabric reduces moisture buildup.

Special Considerations for Wearing Underwear with HS Wounds

Change underwear at least once daily

Bacteria multiply quickly in warm, moist folds of skin. Change underwear regularly, especially after sweating, to prevent infection.

Avoid overly tight elastic bands

Constricting elastic around the thighs and waist can worsen existing HS lesions. Choose underwear with wide, covered waistbands.

Wear breathable fabrics

Fabrics like cotton and bamboo rayon allow airflow to keep skin dry. Avoid silk, nylon and spandex blends which can trap moisture.

Try antimicrobial underwear

Underwear with antimicrobial silver fibers or nano-particles help inhibit bacterial growth around wounds.

Consider dressings or pads

For draining wounds, use gauze, bandages, or sanitary pads inside underwear to absorb drainage and prevent sticking.

Sleep without underwear

At night, go underwear-free if possible to maximize air circulation and prevent sweating.

Shopping Tips for Buying HS-Friendly Underwear

Stick to all-cotton and natural fibers

Fabrics like cotton, silk, and bamboo rayon will be gentlest on sensitive HS skin. Avoid synthetics which don't breathe.

Get the right size

Underwear that's too tight or too loose will both cause friction issues. Measure your hips and waist before buying.

Try seamless options

Seamless underwear helps avoid irritation, redness, and scarring from traditional seams.

Look for covered leg openings

Underwear with covered elastic leg bands reduce contact with lesions in the groin and thighs.

Check the gusset lining

The gusset or lining should be 100% cotton for maximum comfort. Nylon and other fabrics can be irritating when soaked with sweat or wound drainage.

Read reviews

Check product reviews for feedback on softness, comfort, and coverage from others with sensitive skin conditions.

Buy multiples

Stock up on at least 5-7 pairs of comfortable underwear in breathable fabrics so you always have a clean pair.

Recommended Underwear Brands for HS

TomboyX

TomboyX offers soft underwear in a wide range of gender-neutral styles. Their cotton and modal fabrics, tagless designs, and covered bands make them a top pick for HS comfort.

Cariloha

Underwear made from antimicrobial, breathable bamboo viscose makes Cariloha a good HS option. They are sustainably produced and hold up well to washing.

Monica Hansen Beachwear

This brand uses lightweight cotton with invisible seams to prevent skin irritation. The fabric is OEKO-TEX certified free of harmful chemicals.

Lunya

Lunya underwear features seamless waistbands, moisture-wicking fabric, and silky soft modal. The pull-on styles prevent elastic rubbing on lesions.

Hanky Panky

The Hanky Panky signature lace thongs have a cotton gusset for HS comfort. The stretchy lace material is also versatile for accommodating bandages.

Sheath

Sheath underwear is designed specifically for sensitive skin. The ultra-soft fabric has antimicrobial silver threads to reduce odor and infection risk.

Knix

Knix manufactures leakproof underwear that is also soft, breathable, and quick-drying - ideal for managing HS wound drainage and moisture.

Caring for Your Underwear with HS

Choose a mild detergent

Harsh detergents can be irritating. Use a fragrance-free, sensitive skin formula.

Wash after each use

Bacteria multiples quickly in damp, soiled underwear. Wash after just 1 wear to prevent infection.

Avoid fabric softener

Fabric softeners can leave irritating residue on underwear. They are unnecessary for naturally soft fabrics.

Air dry if possible

The heat of dryers can damage fabric integrity over time. Lay flat to air dry for longest lasting softness.

Soak to remove blood stains

Soak underwear in cold water before washing to prevent set-in blood stains from wound drainage.

Sanitize regularly

Sanitize underwear by washing with hot water or adding bleach to kill bacteria. This helps prevent infections.

Gently remove lint

Carefully pick off any pilled fabric or lint to keep underwear soft and prevent debris entering wounds.

Avoid harsh scrubbing

Aggressive scrubbing can damage fabric. Spot clean problem areas for best results.

Living Comfortably with HS

Finding the optimal underwear is one strategy for minimizing HS friction and discomfort. Other useful tips include losing weight to reduce skin folds, wearing loose clothing, applying soothing creams after showering, using bandages to protect lesions, and seeing a dermatologist about medical treatment options. With the right lifestyle adjustments, underwear choices, and treatment plan, you can effectively manage hidradenitis suppurativa.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.