Laser hair removal for hidradenitis suppurativa - is it ok to do while a flare is still healing? (photos)

Question

This is my first flare. I'm recovering from severe HS flare in my armpit that happened while travelling - I'd had small bumps in both armpits on and off for the past year but this was much worse and very painful so I went to the hospital and a dermatologist diagnosed HS. They injected cortisone which helped calm things and gave me doxycycline to take until it completely clears up. It's been 3 weeks, it's better but not 100% gone. I'd like to try laser hair removal ASAP if it's safe to do so.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Hidradenitis is a lifelong problem that can be addressed with laser 
hair removal, biologic therapy, immune modulating therapy, surgery, and 
IIT SC. Therapies should follow an established protocol to prevent 
recurrence. Once scars have formed, a combination of skin brighteners 
and Kenalog IIT can help.
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your
photos. I recommend waiting at least one week before treating the affected with
a laser. However, it’s best to get a in person consultation from a
board-certified dermatologist.

Anup Dhir, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It might be safer to give it a few more weeks for the healing to be complete. You do not want a flare up again.thecosmeticsurgeon.com

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Laser hair removal for hidradenitis suppurativa - is it ok to do while a flare is still healing? (photos)

Answers (3)

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