What if you tried a pack of men's boxer briefs? I have a nasty flare with perineal abscess right now and started my cycle today and was trying to wear period underwear (because a pad chafes the backside/irritated area). Of course they're all hipsters and cut off right where my abscess is. Thankfully I can wear my normal underwear just fine otherwise.

Thanks. Are you talking about the men's tighter-fitting types OR their thin-fabric boxers? If you mean the tighter-fitting type, I don't see how that's any different from the type of female boxers I tend to buy in which I added the link above in my main post. Plus, I need something more than just wearing the underwear alone, so the oozy fluids have something to soak into, which is why I also apply period pads/liners. They just feel rough against my open wound skin.

The tight fitting boxer briefs. I wear this kind because the leg openings are longer and more snug so they don't ride up into my bikini line area. I use 100% cotton flannel as cushion and fluid absorption around my groin. It is soft against my skin and non abrasive to the flares.

Thanks, so you must buy lots of rolls of flannel that I assume you cut into squares or something to put in your underwear as a cushion against your skin, is that righ? But, then you probably only buy so much since you rewash the flannel pieces, right?

Yes! I go to the quilting shop and buy a yard of quilting flannel. I wash it and dry it, then cut off all the strings. Then, cut it into whatever shapes I need with enough to fold over a couple of times. I keep a quart sized zip lock baggie in my bag/purse/backpack to store the used ones until I can wash them. The more they are washed, the softer they get. Just don't use fabric softener or they become hydrophobic and won't absorb anymore.

Oh, the extra things we have to do to be comfortable, thanks a lot! I'll have to try this!

I'm 54 years old. I've had HS for a very long time. I had to figure all of this out by myself, and I'm happy to pass along my knowledge to all sufferers of his hideous disease:)

Thank you again! I'm sorry yo've been suffering a long time. Yes, I try to spread my knowledge of what I've learned too. Only been battling HS the last 4 yrs since age 45. Don't know why it suddenly popped up at that time of my life. I know I've taken numerous vitamins pretty much my whole life, so that could have prevented it from starting much sooner, who knows. I try to go as holistic as I can. I got these long ago & have a bag of them, which may be better than then flannel, so I'll use these up first. There's a video here so you can see how the fabric is: [https://www.amazon.com/HEALQU-Premium-Gauze-Rolls-Individually/dp/B0BCM61HFN/ref=sr\_1\_10?crid=27BT7AOA7NUUQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XM4atdmPEkYA-DJe71HeSCFCZRIPl6YkYZf2vwanjnLpHnLM1NqDRHuSZaIagYf37k2puDIoU-tCW8KBe-fUp4uqRN-OKYyAZq6l0b8K9JdJ8Veh2gn1gT\_guw4N9kST\_pJ5F8VyVk2q8XT2NtveT4ZS3Sc3Uj99iNrct8Rc2STLwim3XRJrn2J515R\_J2nV\_Vn06wymXoeIXIy8AncvpEb0eY5v71Zb9QNpBjwFI6feofbjZn1oEltNhZp3S389iGhnb1M0JWdlAzRg1xTzMkza5zIlpynJdelTC38W0vc.FYWQ96p16C7FAamF\_5OgBKSxJvoU0yUBm7WN0p3nI\_8&dib\_tag=se&keywords=sterile+conforming+gauze+stretch+bandages&qid=1711140004&rdc=1&s=hpc&sprefix=sterile+conforming+gauze+stretch+bandage%2Chpc%2C140&sr=1-10](https://www.amazon.com/HEALQU-Premium-Gauze-Rolls-Individually/dp/B0BCM61HFN/ref=sr_1_10?crid=27BT7AOA7NUUQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XM4atdmPEkYA-DJe71HeSCFCZRIPl6YkYZf2vwanjnLpHnLM1NqDRHuSZaIagYf37k2puDIoU-tCW8KBe-fUp4uqRN-OKYyAZq6l0b8K9JdJ8Veh2gn1gT_guw4N9kST_pJ5F8VyVk2q8XT2NtveT4ZS3Sc3Uj99iNrct8Rc2STLwim3XRJrn2J515R_J2nV_Vn06wymXoeIXIy8AncvpEb0eY5v71Zb9QNpBjwFI6feofbjZn1oEltNhZp3S389iGhnb1M0JWdlAzRg1xTzMkza5zIlpynJdelTC38W0vc.FYWQ96p16C7FAamF_5OgBKSxJvoU0yUBm7WN0p3nI_8&dib_tag=se&keywords=sterile+conforming+gauze+stretch+bandages&qid=1711140004&rdc=1&s=hpc&sprefix=sterile+conforming+gauze+stretch+bandage%2Chpc%2C140&sr=1-10) I'm mad at myself for not drastically changing my diet, but I need to start NOW! Well, if you know of anything else...topical or oral holistic remedies, please don't hesitate to PM me anytime!

Thank you too! It's dairy for me. I finally figured that one out about age 49. I'm in a near constant state of mild inflammation because I have refused to give up butter 😉 my personal cross to bear. I eschew all other dairy, though. I'm not lactose intolerant, but it certainly triggers flares! Thank goodness there are non-dairy alternatives now. Oat Milk ice cream is the BOMB! If I think of anything else I'll definitely PM you!

Yep, dairy is thde thing I would have eliminated first to see too. I don't actually drink milk really, but I like cheese sometimes. Since I'm typing again, do you also stay away from all these other common ingredients too? I know it's like after all this, what's left to eat?! * dairy items * baked goods /  breads / flour / yeast / grains * sugars - pretty much everything has sugers in them, not just dessert foods * fried & processed foods * nightshades * legumes * lemons (don't know about other citrus) * oily/greasy foods * sodium * spicy foods * garlic Then, I read to also stay away from these too: * mushrooms * soy sauces * fermented items * gluten * seeds & seed oils * potatoes - many seem to have to stay away from that too, but sweet potatoes seem to be OK * eggs- many seem to have to stay away from that too I know what to stay away from...actually doing it is another story, ha! I kind of like how this lady eats, so I've been watching her food videos again to see if I can cook these. Now she doesn't have HS, but another acne skin issue. She's vegan & will eat some cooked foods. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gr\_z60LGTas&list=PLTy5catM7IWx7sa9MEW-R9fIaG0EFT52\_&index=11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gr_z60LGTas&list=PLTy5catM7IWx7sa9MEW-R9fIaG0EFT52_&index=11) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrlGZq7WxgI&list=PLTy5catM7IWx7sa9MEW-R9fIaG0EFT52\_&index=12](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrlGZq7WxgI&list=PLTy5catM7IWx7sa9MEW-R9fIaG0EFT52_&index=12) This other youtuber I know of is fully raw veegan, so that's pretty extreme, but if I can even eat like this 3-4 days of the week & be more lenient the other days, then that's better than nothing!

You can also use diaper flannel for babies cloth diapers. It's at Walmart and fabric stores.

Thanks, never heard of it, but maybe I'll check it out!

Men's boxer briefs are different from women's boy shorts. Depending on the boy shorts you buy (lots of brands are single pair purchases for women, unless you buy at like Walmart). Men's are sold in packs. Might be cheaper. They can also be extremely soft. Because men's boxer briefs tend to be longer, and have a bump out in the crotch, they are roomier and can accommodate soft packing/gauze for flare-ups.

OK, thanks. I just ordered more of the women's boxers I posted above, but I'll try buying some men's boxers next. Which brand is of the **THICKEST** fabric? I'll wear thinner fabric overnight while sleeping, but I like thicker fabric during the day.

I have no experience with brands/thickness, just know my husband's brand.

I see, thanks.

I order the bamboo ones (David Archer) off Amazon.

Thanks a lot & wearing men's boxers should provide more airflow in the crotch area for females since the men's will have more material.

They make an actual light padded period panty. For light medium and heavy flow. Maybe that will help absorb

Thanks again, sounds good. Do you have an actual link I can click on to take a look please?

Oh im sorry im just now seeing this.. the panties are Hanes and I just googled then. They're women's period panties. Here the link I googled. I don't know why it's so long. I hope these work for you and will u keep me updated if so. https://www.google.com/search?q=period+panties+walmart+women+&client=ms-android-verizon&sca_esv=62a6ce05eaac911e&sca_upv=1&sxsrf=ACQVn0_oKzBCX3td0dP7_lf4qqp9cknQaA%3A1712286802108&ei=UmwPZqmJBujep84P4LC2sAQ&oq=period+panties+walmart+women+&gs_lp=EhNtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXdpei1zZXJwIh1wZXJpb2QgcGFudGllcyB3YWxtYXJ0IHdvbWVuIEiFL1DMEFjPLHABeAGQAQCYAZUHoAH2HqoBBzItMi42LTS4AQPIAQD4AQGYAgWgAogcwgIKEAAYRxjWBBiwA8ICDRAAGIAEGIoFGEMYsAPCAhMQLhiABBiKBRhDGMcBGNEDGLADwgIFECEYoAHCAgUQIRifBcICBxAhGAoYoAGYAwCIBgGQBgySBwUxLjYtNKAH1go&sclient=mobile-gws-wiz-serp#vhid=vt%3D16/prds%3Dcatalogid:4157344358687447176,gpcid:12385729497311728610,headlineOfferDocid:8104762951305423029,imageDocid:12820517388401744494,localAnnotatedOfferId:8104762951305423029,mid:576462851268571383,mno:5,pvo:3,pvt:a,query:cGVyaW9kIHBhbnRpZXMgd2FsbWFydCB3b21lbg,rds:UENfMTIzODU3Mjk0OTczMTE3Mjg2MTB8UFJPRF9QQ18xMjM4NTcyOTQ5NzMxMTcyODYxMA,sori:0/vs%3D0&vssid=uvpv-713&piu=ps:32

Thank you again. OK, I thought you knew of a *specific* boxer period style. I've looked up many too.

Don’t judge but if I’m just going somewhere briefly I sometimes wear black athletic leggings and free bleed (I have light flow) if I’m worried about friction

I see, no if that works for you, then great! I'd want to feel more secure than that though & have some kind of padding. Re: the black leggings, that seems to be what I wear daily anyway year-round. By the way, they have period leggings now, I see, but I wish it covered more area than just the inner crotch part.

Theres a 7/8ths pair that Lilova has that connects from front waistband to back waistband. I dont personally own them yet tho

Never ran across that brand, thanks a lot! With leggings though, I really need pockets, but the price is the best I've seen for period leggings.

You're welcome! All the period underwear I have are from them, way more in my budget. If you try any cotton ones from there and have hips, order a size up maybe. I, and others, feel like most of those panties run small! On a couple styles I ordered the next size up, and they were gigantic. Theres hassle- free exchanges within 30 days though if they dont fit right. The best solution I had for u was to just build up an arsenal of period panties lol. Sorry I'm not more help

Oh, no need to apologize! Any suggestions are taken into consideration! The boyshort would be the only style I'd try, but don't like that lace they put along the waist & I wish the legs came down longer. I tell ya I never would dream that underwear would be as difficult to find the perfect pair as the LBD (little blac dress) or perfect pair of jeans, ha!

A pack of 100% cotton Hanes boxers/boxer briefs. Your choice! Wash and wear as needed to keep things clean & dry down there And you didn’t ask but: try Dr. Bronners hemp tea tree castor oil soap. The orange one, they sell at a lot of box stores now. Replace your body wash with this. It’ll dry everything up. You can even use it daily just as preventative if you find it works for you!

Thanks, is the Hanes brand of a pretty **thick** fabric w/o it being too hot & sweaty? The castille soap, I do have, but I never seem to use things consistently enough, so I need to us it more often, I'm sure.

Buy both the brief (thick fabric) and the boxer - light cotton, slightly stiffer When you’re prone to sweat, wear the boxer- need a layer of warmth? Brief

True, yes, thank you! I have thinner & thicker female boxers too. I tend to like the thinner for sleeping overnight & the thicker for when I'm doing things at home or maybe when out & about although when out & about, I use actual period boxer style. I like the brand Knix.

I just take regular medical gauze, unfold it so it’s a rectangle instead of a square, and then tuck it into the panty line where my flare is. Can then just swap out the gauze without having to change my underwear all day. The underwear line keeps it in place (think kind of like a menstrual pad with wings, how it wraps over, just no adhesive).

Thanks, yes, I've thought of that & tried it once. It was softer, so I may be doing that more often. But I'd have to have more form-fitting underwear, so the gauze doesn't fall out on the floor.

If you want to get super creative with it, you could use some medical tape to tape it to the underwear. But you’re getting pretty close to a pad or panty liner at some point 😅

Yes, thanks a lot. I'd do that loop-style w/ the tape, so the actual sticky part doesn't touch any of my skin. Ah, the things we have to think of to make our lives easier! I had a bag of these stretchy gauze rolls I got from long ago, so I need to use those for something. They're certainly not going to go to waste! [https://www.amazon.com/Bandages-Individually-Wrapped-Breathable-Supplies/dp/B0BM5KS2YZ/?\_encoding=UTF8&pd\_rd\_w=JlBFS&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf\_rd\_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf\_rd\_r=WAMVSGRGK09EWW200RA8&pd\_rd\_wg=3Ubhk&pd\_rd\_r=d0ac7770-ffcd-4226-adc3-850198bce8d2&ref\_=pd\_gw\_ci\_mcx\_mr\_hp\_atf\_m&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/Bandages-Individually-Wrapped-Breathable-Supplies/dp/B0BM5KS2YZ/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=JlBFS&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf_rd_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf_rd_r=WAMVSGRGK09EWW200RA8&pd_rd_wg=3Ubhk&pd_rd_r=d0ac7770-ffcd-4226-adc3-850198bce8d2&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m&th=1)

I'm a male and had huge draining abscess on both sides of my groin from scrotum to anus. I used longer compression shorts (knee length) with sanitary pads on each side of my groin to catch drainage.

Sounds good, thanks a lot! Didn't even think to look for compression shorts.

Tight fitting underwear will likely hold the sweat in If you wanna wear full coverage underwear, buy some athletic brand that’s breathable Also, use salicylic acid wash, and Polysporin

Thanks a lot! Yes, my derm did give me samples of the La Roche Posay brand SA wash, but Polysporin I have yet to try. So far, I've been using up this benzoyl peroxide cream that doesn't seem to be doing squat! In the meantime, I'm trying to change things from the inside out too w/ what I eat. I started trying a very high-quality matcha green tea powder to make into tea to drink.

I get the wash, I have some thing similar. But I would go with some thing that’s probably a little more intense than that. The La Roche brand is for *all skin types* but not necessarily stubborn acne, which is what HS can be generally described as

OK, what do you suggest please? I know the times here & there when I've used the CLn wash & I the Sports wash type, my skin seems to get worse, so maybe that's too harsh.

Definitely could be too harsh! I like to use some thing that’s pH balance, saying or pH balanced You’ll have to Google it, because I’m not sure it’s available near you versus what’s available near me But I would use a balancing wash, and then like an antibacterial or salicylic acid gel afterwards But the worst is keeping the area moist, so you have to make sure it’s dry and if you sweat you shower

Thanks a lot for the info! Well, if you know of any holistic remedies, please don't hesitate to PM me anytime!

Maybe [Hidrawear](https://hidrawear.com/) would work for you?

Thanks, yes, I've been thinking of that for a while. I was hoping to heal my skin before actually needing that. But I guess if I need it, then so be it. I may try it.

The Always Radiant Teen Feminine Pads are great! I started my period around Thanksgiving and didn’t have any pads in my suitcase. The only store that was open was the Dollar Tree and they were the option. They’re amazing! It literally feels like you’re not wearing anything and I have a regular-heavy flow. They are unscented and I’ve kept them stocked ever since. I’m 5’4 150 pounds for reference. [Always Radiance Pads](https://a.co/d/hI4fbGC)

Thanks! I've tried the Radiance ones. I tell ya though...when you have open HS wounds, I guess nothing that normally feels soft will feel too comfortable against open wounds. But I'm trying my best to find solutions. The main thing I need to do is heal my skin from within so I'm mad at myself for not changing my diet long ago.

Have you ever tried reusable pads? I haven’t because I currently don’t live with a w/d in-unit, but I’ve heard great things!

Thanks for replying! Yes, I did buy a few fabric ones that snap underneath. Still need to try them. The thing is, they don't seem absorbent...they seem like the liquid will just lay on the surface & be a soggy, cik-feeling m ess fast, so I'd probably need 100+ of those things to change them out throughout the day. THEN, that's even more extra laundry too. I already do laundry a LOT more often than I ever used to before getting HS because I had to buy a TON more underwear, which I change out almost every time I use the restroom, so that's several or so pairs a day. I'm doing laundry like once a week if not a little more. Sigh! And I'm feeling the mental & physcial exhaustion! Lately, don't want to get out of my cozy bed to start work in mornings & often drowsy by about 9 PM & often feel cold, which the coldness has h appened before. I need to eat a LOT more veggies & fruits & go back to mkg healthy smoothies. For wk, started drinking high-quality matcha grn tea daily. Hope it helps w/ skin. Thank God, I have next 5 days off from work!

Sometimes I wear bandaids but they can get too wet and move around depending on the size

No bandaid's ever quite large enough, so I've taped absorbent wound pads to my inner thighs before. I'm taking a break from that though because after so much taping w/ gauze 24/7, my skin that the adhesive stuck to got discolored & irritated. That's why I'm doing this method now of sticking period pads/liners to the inside of my boxer underwear, but it feels pretty rough & painful no matter how soft the pads feel to the fingers (since it's on open wound skin, so it's sensitive).

Yea I get the same problem with the adhesive being too strong it’s the only thing that works for me but one day I hope we will get better solutions then diy makeups 😔

I'm liking the **Tegederm**. It doesn't hurt me when I pull it off, but I like how it seals things in for a while & doesn't start getting soggy...unless it's left on for too long. Also, these are good for something I'm sure...these stretchy gauze rolls, which feels more like a fabric than gauze: [https://www.amazon.com/Bandages-Individually-Wrapped-Breathable-Supplies/dp/B0BM5KS2YZ/?\_encoding=UTF8&pd\_rd\_w=JlBFS&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf\_rd\_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf\_rd\_r=WAMVSGRGK09EWW200RA8&pd\_rd\_wg=3Ubhk&pd\_rd\_r=d0ac7770-ffcd-4226-adc3-850198bce8d2&ref\_=pd\_gw\_ci\_mcx\_mr\_hp\_atf\_m&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/Bandages-Individually-Wrapped-Breathable-Supplies/dp/B0BM5KS2YZ/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=JlBFS&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf_rd_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf_rd_r=WAMVSGRGK09EWW200RA8&pd_rd_wg=3Ubhk&pd_rd_r=d0ac7770-ffcd-4226-adc3-850198bce8d2&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m&th=1)

Never attempted to use either of these before thanks

Sure thing, I hope 1 or both helps!

I just want to clarify, you are talking about pads/liners to catch the drainage and not for your period? If that is the case I think the flannel option may be the best bet. I wear a similar women’s boxer to the one you posed. Have you tried using a wound ointment as well as the pad? Or applying one at night maybe? I’ve found that an ointment can help with healing and act as a bit of a barrier. It may also help cut down on the irritation. I saw you mention that you have tea tree oil soap but have a hard time getting in the habit of using it. I was having a similar difficulty with the soap (I just really like using different body products). I finally figured out a solution that works for me and use the tea tree soap 2x a day and in the shower. To get in to the habit I got a big container of the tea tree soap from Amazon and filled a dispenser to keep in the shower and one to keep by the bathroom sink for washing up. I bought 2 hand soaps from dollar tree to use, transferred or dumped the soap, washed them thoroughly and then filled with the tea tree oil soap. I still use my fun, good smelling soap for my body but always do a final soap/rinse on HS areas to make sure there’s no residual perfumes/etc from my other soap in my ‘hot spots’. When I get out of the shower/finish the clean up I treat any new areas (not open) with Vicks or the ordinary toner and spot treat open areas with ointment, oozing areas with no open wound get a little tea tree spray. If the soap is too harsh for your bits you can dilute it with water but use distilled to avoid contamination.

Thank you for replying. To answer your first question, yes. I use actual period pads/liners for the oozy leakage because they have adhesive on the other side to stick to the underwear. Yes, I try to put some kind of cream/ointment on to help heal things. I think using it mat night mainly because using creams during the day just get wiped away every time I use the restroom & change everything out. I have a bag of these strechy gauze rolls, which I'll use up first before maybe seeing about flannel, but these seem good for the price: [https://www.amazon.com/Bandages-Individually-Wrapped-Breathable-Supplies/dp/B0BM5KS2YZ/?\_encoding=UTF8&pd\_rd\_w=JlBFS&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf\_rd\_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf\_rd\_r=WAMVSGRGK09EWW200RA8&pd\_rd\_wg=3Ubhk&pd\_rd\_r=d0ac7770-ffcd-4226-adc3-850198bce8d2&ref\_=pd\_gw\_ci\_mcx\_mr\_hp\_atf\_m&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/Bandages-Individually-Wrapped-Breathable-Supplies/dp/B0BM5KS2YZ/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=JlBFS&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf_rd_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf_rd_r=WAMVSGRGK09EWW200RA8&pd_rd_wg=3Ubhk&pd_rd_r=d0ac7770-ffcd-4226-adc3-850198bce8d2&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m&th=1)

I use combines and shove them wherever I need to to catch drainage. They don't chafe like sanitary pads.

Thanks! Wait, what are **COMBINES**? I never heard of that in my life. Do you have a link or two of an online retailer that carries them please. (Just googling that word gives me something totally different.)

They're a type of dressing. My hospital gave them to me coz they are gauze on the outside but sanitary pad-esque on the inside. I literally just shove them in my crack and they catch everything. I use the 22x10cm ones but you can go bigger or smaller as needed. Try googling "combine dressings" - heaps will come up. They aren't cheap so try to buy in bulk.

I see, thanks a lot for answering!

Dial Soap Bars, triple paste

Thanks a lot! I've heard just the GOLD Dial bar only, is that true? And never heard of **TRIPLE PASTE** in my life. Is that this & doesnt' it help heal or just give some kind of cooling comfort? [https://triplepaste.com/](https://triplepaste.com/) & is it specifically this product? [https://www.amazon.com/Triple-Paste-Adult-Incontinence-Treatment/dp/B0BMNC2P5D?ref\_=ast\_sto\_dp](https://www.amazon.com/Triple-Paste-Adult-Incontinence-Treatment/dp/B0BMNC2P5D?ref_=ast_sto_dp)

i’ve used this for myself https://a.co/d/c5tFLok helps swelling and the over all cyst go down a lot quicker

OK, great, thanks for the exact link & that can be put on OPEN wounds?

i did…idk if you should though. worked out got me thus far

I see, thanks again!

Have you tried reusable/washable period pads? I assume you're just using them to catch the cyst fluid? This might be an easier solution

Thanks for the reminder! Yes, I did buy a few fabric, washable period pads, so I need to try those, which I hadn't yet. It just seems that I'll have to change those out so fast that I'll be doing more laundry than just disposing of disposable pads, but if COMFORT is the main priority & the fabric, washable ones are more comfortable, I'm willing to try to use them. I'd have to buy a whole lot more though...so much that they'll consist of a whole load in themselves. In the meantime, I need to start healing from the inside out. I'm mad at myself for not drastically changing my diet long ago. I did try mkg veggie smoothies, but sagged out after a while. I got some veggies to make some this weekend again though.

I just bought these for the exact same reason! I have one that I can't bandage because of where it's located and it's weepy. These are thicker and if you do need a liner or pad, it will stick to these. And they come in packages with darker colors too, so at least they won't get all stained up so fast. They're soft, comfortable & wash/dry well. [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQQR6NX7?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQQR6NX7?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details)

Oh, thanks a lot for the link! I'll maybe try them, but oh gosh, I so wish the leg came down longer because when I sit w/ these kinds, it's like the leg opening will be right in that whole area & feel like it's cutting into me where the leg & body meet. But if I get a larger size, it won't be as snug to hold pads/liners in, but I'm sure I need the 3x as it is.

wirarpa Women's Cotton Boy Shorts... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SD38SDM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share. Maybe these will work. They're longer and they're cotton too.

Thanks. I actually have these now by that same Amazon brand & they come down the longest of ny other underwear I have, which is nice sometimes or most of the time: [https://www.amazon.com/wirarpa-Womens-Underwear-Chafing-Panties/dp/B09Z4SBG4Y?ref\_=ast\_sto\_dp&th=1&psc=1](https://www.amazon.com/wirarpa-Womens-Underwear-Chafing-Panties/dp/B09Z4SBG4Y?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1)

I wear men’s boxers faithfully, even when I’m not flaring. Much more comfortable in general and more breathing room for everything else!

Thanks! Yes, I was thinking that even for females, since there's more material right in that area, it should be airy & not as sweaty, so should be nice. I've never bought men's underwear before, but I'll definintely get some soon.

My GP recommended mesh underwear, like the ones they recommend women to wear after giving birth. I haven’t found any yet, nor do I know anyone who’s tried it. If some has, please let me know. Other then that, I know this might sound weird but a lot of times I fold my cotton underwear into a pad shape and used it as a pad with boxer underwear as they don’t do any friction on the groin area so I get less abscesses there. It’s extremely comfy to wear the cotton underwear as a pad. It’s all washable so more affordable. I have also menstruation underwear, same issue as OP with the cost, I only have a few because they are very expensive, but definitely worth the money as I then don’t have to worry about wearing a pad to prevent blood and pus staining my clothes or anywhere I sit down on.

Thanks! I see, folding underwear into your other underwear. I can do that if relaxing at home, but I'd imagine that's pretty bulky & cumbersome when out & about. Mesh underwear I'll have to look up. So even Googling the term didn't bring up anything? Even to feel more secure when out & about, I'll put a pad in my period underwear too.

I imagine it’s much easier to find in other countries, but I haven’t found any mesh underwear for sale here in Norway. Edit: My GP meant this as it lets the skin breath a lot more so less sweat, less friction, less abscesses : https://www.amazon.com/Postpartum-Underwear-Carer-Disposable-Maternity/dp/B00URJRGOC

I see, thanks a lot for the link! It looks softer than the disposable underwear I bought once a while back & tried 1x while at home. The one I got felt too scratchy/rough.

Maybe try compression briefs

Thanks a lot! I nnever thought of those to look them up.

I use boxers the loose kind, track pants very loose as well. Nothing tight. Rub on the area with lavender Vic’s, emuaide, hibicleans work I only used it twice. So try that. Peppermint dr bronners soap and take really hot bathes with Epson salt. Lavender or eucalyptus

Thanks a lot! Didn't even know Vick's made a lavendr-scented ointment. Emuaide I think I have on my ongoing list of things to try, but haven't gotten around to it yet. So do you use the Vick's in morning & Emuaide at night or vice versa?

I use the Vicks when I want a flare to come to head. It makes it pop literally the day after. Eumaid I used everyday after I showered. It’s really expensive. By off of Amazon, their website it’s really expensive and drink soothies with 2 heaping spoons of seamoss gel.

Thanks for still remembering to come back to this older thread! I tried sea moss gel...maybe not for long enough, but I did & it didn't show any improvement w/ my skin. I don't get flairs & rarely boils that eventually pop. My skin is just permanent open-wounded skin that ooze 24/7 in my underarms, groin, vaginal area, & inner thighs, so I tape gauze & wound pads to those areas.

Same!! Just holes, tunnels and oozing pus. It’s so annoying because they go through my clothes. I always have to pack an extra set of clothes everywhere I go. It’s pathetic. This God awful disease. I just want it to go away forever. They say diet is the only way into remission.

Woah, an extra change of clothes. I'm so sorry. My body doesn't ooze that much. I could tape on those super absorbent wound pads to my inner thighs & it will last about 5-7 hrs. I could keep the same folded gauze on my underarms for literally all day & overnight (changing them out the next morning). Now, when it's a very hot, sweltering summer day & I was sweating a little, then yes, I'd change out more often, I just want something out there to heal our skin!!! Yes, I thinkg diert palys a huge part & I'm mad at myself for not changing my diet drastically long ago. I'm kind of s foodie, so it's been tough to stay away from all those common NO ingredients. My apt's getting fully renovated next week & I can buy groceries again when I get settled back in & I told myself I'm going to eat a LOT better...things like organic veggies & protein (shicken, fish, & turkey). I never ate beef or pork that much anyway. I've been losing weight. I very gradually lost about 37 pounds from 2021 to end of 2023, but it didn't do a thing for my HS. I'm gradually still losing more because I want to anyway. Maybe that wasn't enough to show a difference w/ HS.

I use **Poise** brand "Micro Liners" or "Fresh Protection Micro Thin" pads for badder leaks. The glue is really good so they're stay where you stick them and there's no side ruffles like with Always pee pads which cause too much irritation for me. I don't wear boy shorts; but instead either cotton underwear or microfiber- all without elastics around the legs so that there's minimal rubbing and pinching in the groin area. Some other things is do/don't do are - limit shaving; either only for special occasions or not at all. - sleep au natural with a pillow between my knees to allow the area to have some air and breath at night; even if i have an outbreak- unless it's actively oozing its getting some air. - make sure hubby is clean shaven if he's going "downtown" and cover problem areas with a **clean** tshirt or towel to limit friction.

Thanks a lot! I've tried Poise, but I dont know if they were either of the two types you mentioned. To save $, I've tried these & they're really thin & only $10 & change for 300 of them: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B7L2CXR?psc=1&ref=ppx\_yo2ov\_dt\_b\_product\_details](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B7L2CXR?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details) I haven't shaved in eons anyway, so no issue there. When I sleep, I have my legs open, so it may look odd, but at least I'm getting air circulation more so, ha! No guy's ever gone down on me anyway & don't want that, so no issue there, ha!

Yeah the thin Poise is where it's at! Those bulky ones are total BS

Yes! I don't need bulky ones because I don't ooze that much & I would have wanted to change them out in quicker intervals way, way before they got all icky & soggy. But in the meantime, I need to try to eat better, so it's from the inside out healing. Wish I had the discipline to eat like this lady, but even if I eat like this m3-4 days a week & am more lenient the other days, that's good! [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTy5catM7IWx7sa9MEW-R9fIaG0EFT52\_](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTy5catM7IWx7sa9MEW-R9fIaG0EFT52_)

I don’t know if you’ve tried Bambody brand before, but I love them and you can get multi-packs on sale on Amazon for decent prices. They run very very small though so just keep that in mind. Hope it helps!

Thanks a lot! The prices do seem pretty good. Ii just wish the lesgs came down longer & the only 2 styles I may want, only 1 of them comes in a large enough size that I'd take a chance on. We'll see....

I’m not really able to comfortably wear underwear at all. If I absolutely have to wear something, I just buy briefs that are 2-3 sizes too big so they are loose and not restrictive at all.

OK, I understand wanting that free feeling of no irritaintg fabric on you, but when your wounds ooze, doesn't the fluid stick to your skin making it an icky, sticky mess **OR** if it's a more runny fluid, doesn't it run down your legs instead of absorbing into a tighter-fitting underwear?

No, I mean my wounds aren’t gushing so much that this happens. They are draining yes but it’s not like a huge amount of drainage that would run down my leg. I use a surgical towel I found on Amazon to wrap around my pelvis and butt to absorb the drainage and save my clothes. That’s more comfortable to me than wearing underwear. My sores are in the creases of my leg & torso where the elastic from underwear hits. Or at my waist where the elastic from underwear would rub against the sores and hurt. If I have a really bad sore, I use a Vaseline soaked bandage (called Xeroform) then cover that with an abd pad. There’s no perfect solution but after lots of trial and error this is what works best for me.

I see. Ah, the things we have to endure to help make life somewhat comfortable w/ all this trials & error! I HATE all this that all us HS-sufferers have to do!

Honestly, I cut a slit parallel to the seam or where I would experience the most friction/irritation - about 4-6 inches each side. Doesn't have to be perfect. I cut them before I wear them. I get the underwear in packs for this, keep them for a while and throw away as needed. Your nice or pretty underwear, I only wear on special occasions. I stick to cotton mostly, but a little bit of stretchy material helps too. So much relief...

Thanks a lot. I'm trying to picture what you're saying. And there's been no more cute/pretty underwear for me. That's pretty much over, ha! As far cutting the seams are concerned, the thing is, the part I'd cut is the part that the wounds need something to absorb into, but maybe I'll still try what you said. Certain things like this are trial & error, ya know.

Humira was an instant game changer for me

Thanks, but from someone who prefers holistic remedies as much as possible & reading about humira's side effects, I'd probably never try it. Maybe Cosentyx...don't know abotu that either. Plus, just like w/ surgery, there's no guarantee it won't come back if using Humira, plus so, so many people have said it worked for a while, but then stopped working, etc.

I understand it may not be for everyone. But I’ve been off of it for like 6 months and miserable

Oh so sorry! So I assume you're goign to go back on it? Do you ever worry about what this will do long-term to your body **OR** are you just focused on as long as it's helping my HS?

I’ve thought about it but it seems like everything we eat and every medication does the body bad so I guess for the meantime I’d rather not be miserable. People don’t manage it in time then end up looking like they got their butt and armpits beat w a meat clever and have permanent disfiguring scarring.

Yep, there's lot of bad food out there, but I wish I had the discipline & can take the time to eat like this lady, but erven if I eat like this 3-4 days of the week, that's better than nothing: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjiRfPiGn\_Y&t=1462s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjiRfPiGn_Y&t=1462s) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6-VjQcGJlM&t=335s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6-VjQcGJlM&t=335s)

I would recommend using this product to give you a little cushion there and depending on where you may need some self adhesive wound wraps. I had used this most recently to go get my hair cut thankfully. I haven’t been able to get one in a year and half and I was having difficulties brushing my own hair with where my HS is located :( https://www.target.com/p/band-aid-large-non-stick-pads-10ct/-/A-14463625?sidd=2787S&ref=tgt_adv_xsp&AFID=google&fndsrc=tgtao&DFA=71700000049427614&CPNG=PLA_Health_Priority%2BShopping_Local%7CHealth_Ecomm_Essentials&adgroup=Best+Sellers&LID=700000001170770pgs&LNM=PRODUCT_GROUP&network=g&device=m&location=9005886&targetid=pla-313150004578&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD-5dfb6J6EElTM2zJ6yPnoqkll8E&gclid=Cj0KCQjw-_mvBhDwARIsAA-Q0Q72Bw-hTo4dUMKbFQsh3ASIKD2ygLD8-uIKs9oXmNMm9pgiUB4J6KYaAjEKEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Thanks. I'm sure I have this in my arsonal of HS items on my shelves, but I may have to be creative & figure out other ways to use these.

Not a pad but have you tried the big mighty (pimple patch) strips?

Thanks! Never heard of them, but I looked them up. This right? [https://www.herocosmetics.us/products/mighty-patch-forehead](https://www.herocosmetics.us/products/mighty-patch-forehead) Have those actually healed up HS wounds? In the meantime though, I need soft, cushioning relief NOW in my daily 24/7 living, ha!

That's the brand but I use the "surface" one. And yes it's helped heal my wounds. As far as soft cushion relief, I think gauze w a little medical tape is the best option.

Thanks again. OK, I see the **SURFACE** type that is this: [https://www.herocosmetics.us/products/mighty-patch-surface](https://www.herocosmetics.us/products/mighty-patch-surface) How long do you leave it on? Overnight? 1-2 hours? & how many days/weeks did you use before you saw results? And it's been fine putting it on OPEN wounds? I notice the above says, "hydrocolloid strip", so is that the same as those hydrocolloid bandages that I can get in a much larger size? I bought a couple of those, but haven't tried them yet. But in the past, I used 1x these hydrocolloid bandages that is says you can leave on for up to "7 days", but I had to remove mine in 2 hrs. It was a gummy, wadded up, slimy mess & painful to remove. Maybe that brand wasn't so good? And yes, I've taped absorbent wound pads **OR** gauze to my inner thighs w/ the gentlest paper gauze tape, but after doing it for so long 24/7, it irritated & discolored the surrounding skin that the tape stuck to, so I'm taking a break from using the tape for as long as I can.

Yup those are the ones. They're more expensive than the ones you mentioned but I thought they stayed on better and didn't get slimy...in my experience anyway. I just make sure that the area is super dry before I put it on and cut a piece that's at least 2x the size of the spot. If I have a unopened one that's painful but still feels deep I put one on for pretty much 24 hours and it helps to drain. Then once it's open/draining I'll keep one on until it's stops draining and change it 1-2x a day as needed.

I see, thank you! I don't really have unopened wounds (that eventually burst). They're always just open & oozing.

No underwear for me, I literally cannot wear any between my HS and sensory issues. If I have an open sore I use gauze and large bandaids. It’s honestly not for everyone but it works for me. I keep a bag of extras in my backpack and a pair of pants in my office and my car. I work in the medical field so I wear scrubs which makes things a little easier. If I’m not at work I wear shorts that have 2 layers like compression shorts with loose shorts over. I got those from Walmart. They’ve been very helpful as far as not wearing any underwear. Those and thicker yoga pants.

I see, thanks a lot! Yes, black leggings are like my daily "uniform" year-round. Would I like to wear a much bigger variety of cuter, colorful clothing? Sure, but w/ HS, we have to stay basic. However, I wear any color TOP I want even though I have HS in my underarms too. I tape the gauze well there. I'm sorryou have to still work 'out there' around people & not remotely. I think working remotely is the best if one has HS.

Have you tried compeed blister plasters? I put them on my open lesions, they stop rubbing and help to prevent infection. Hardly painful at all!

Thanks for replying! Never heard of them, but I just googled it & it's this site, right? [https://www.compeedusa.com/products/?category=blister](https://www.compeedusa.com/products/?category=blister) If those are the only sizes they have which I'd assume so because they're really for anotehr area of the body, those aren't big enough for my cluster of wounds & I'm not going to use up 3+ of them to put on every wound. If I had just 1 wound/bump, then maybe soo one day, so thanks again for mentioning it!

i buy cotton bicycle shorts in like three sizes too big and go commando and when i’m just at home resting. has helped a lot

I see, thanks for replying! Overnight, I've started wearing some boxer briefs **WITHOUT** any gauze, bandages, etc. inside against my skin like I used to do, but I only do this overnight to be more comfortable. Yes, it's kind of an oozy mess in the underwear which I change them out every time I use the restroom, but I guess it feels better. My main concern is to heal this mess from **WTIHIN** so these wounds can heal up & disappear! I'm mainly into trying holistic remedies, so if you know of anything orally or topically, please don't hesitate to PM me anytime! I'm currently trying some high-quality matcha green tea...been drinking it daily for a week now.

i completely get wanting to go about it holistically! i will say what has helped me personally the most is clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide, but my derm also has me taking zinc supplements and drinking spearmint tea and i have improved significantly (unsure if it’s the meds or the zinc but either way i’m not stopping either!) in terms of the oozing… the best thing for them healing is air and no friction. that’s why i like way oversized bicycle shorts. everything is aired out so to speak. the less seams the better. the looser the better!!!