Hidradenitis suppurativa is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, boils, and abscesses. It usually affects areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, buttocks, and lower abdomen.

These lumps can come and go, may discharge, and can lead to scarring over time. This condition can be painful and embarrassing. Hidradenitis suppurativa is also known as acne inversa, although it is different from typical acne.

If you are dealing with recurring boils or painful skin lumps, a hidradenitis suppurativa dermatologist online can help assess your symptoms and guide treatment early.

Hidradenitis suppurativa can be difficult to manage without specialist input. Many people are treated repeatedly for “infection” before the correct diagnosis is made.

An online consultation gives you direct access to a dermatologist who understands this condition and can provide a clear plan without long wait times.

Digital Dermatology can help with:

• diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa 
• assessment of flare severity
• guidance on medical treatment options
• advice on preventing flares and managing symptoms
• prescriptions where appropriate
• referral planning for procedures if needed

If you are experiencing ongoing or worsening symptoms, early review can reduce flare frequency and limit long-term scarring.

Explore our full range of online dermatology services for more support.

Hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms often start after puberty and may worsen over time without treatment.

Common signs include:

• painful lumps or boils in skin folds
• recurrent abscesses
• discharge of pus from the skin
• tunnels under the skin (sinus tracts)
• scarring and thickened skin
• flare-ups that come and go

These symptoms can have a real impact on daily life, especially when they affect movement, comfort, and confidence.

There are a few common misconceptions about hidradenitis suppurativa.

• It is not contagious.
• It is not caused by poor hygiene.
• It is not a simple skin infection.

Understanding this is important, because repeated short courses of antibiotics without a proper plan often do not control the condition long term.

There are a few common misconceptions about hidradenitis suppurativa.

• It is not contagious.
• It is not caused by poor hygiene.
• It is not a simple skin infection.

Understanding this is important, because repeated short courses of antibiotics without a proper plan often do not control the condition long term.

The exact hidradenitis suppurativa cause is not fully understood. It is driven by inflammation in the skin, where part of the immune system becomes active in areas it should not be.

This leads to blocked hair follicles, swelling, and the formation of painful lumps and abscesses.

Although bacteria can be involved, this is not primarily an infection. That is why treatment focuses on controlling inflammation rather than simply treating bacteria.

Hidradenitis suppurativa treatments aim to reduce inflammation, control flares, and prevent scarring.

Treatment options may include:

General measures

• maintaining a healthy weight
• stopping smoking
• wearing loose, breathable clothing

Medical treatments

• topical antibiotics or antiseptics
• steroid injections into active lumps
• oral antibiotics for inflammation control
• hormonal treatments in selected cases
• biologic medications that target the immune system

Procedural and surgical options

• drainage of abscesses
• removal of affected skin in more advanced cases

The right plan depends on the severity of your condition and how often flares occur. An online dermatologist can help map out a treatment approach that fits your situation.

• Australian-based dermatologists
• No GP referral required
• Online consults from anywhere in Australia
• Clear diagnosis and practical treatment plans
• Prescriptions arranged when appropriate

You receive care from dermatologists who manage inflammatory skin conditions daily, including periorificial dermatitis and conditions often confused with it. Our online telehealth approach means you can get the care and support you need from the comfort of your home or as an easy part of your day.

A hidradenitis suppurativa dermatologist online consultation is designed to be simple and practical.

You will provide:

• photos of the affected areas
• a history of your symptoms
• details of previous treatments

Your dermatologist will assess your condition and provide:

• confirmation or clarification of diagnosis
• assessment of severity
• a clear treatment plan
• prescriptions if appropriate
• advice on long-term management

This allows you to move forward with a plan, rather than dealing with repeated flare-ups without direction.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic condition with periods of flare and remission. Without treatment, it can become more severe over time.

Early management can:

• reduce the frequency and severity of flares
• limit scarring and skin damage
• improve comfort and daily function
• reduce the need for more invasive procedures

Getting the diagnosis right early makes a significant difference.

• Australian-based dermatologists
• No GP referral required
• Online consults from anywhere in Australia
• Clear diagnosis and practical treatment plans
• Prescriptions arranged when appropriate

You receive care from dermatologists who manage inflammatory skin conditions daily, including periorificial dermatitis and conditions often confused with it. Our online telehealth approach means you can get the care and support you need from the comfort of your home or as an easy part of your day.

If you are dealing with recurring boils, painful lumps, or ongoing skin issues in the folds of the body, it is worth getting a specialist opinion.

Book a hidradenitis suppurativa dermatologist online consultation with Digital Dermatology to get a clear diagnosis and a practical treatment plan.

If you’re looking for a consultation online, our pricing is clearly defined to help you get support without any nasty surprises.