LOCATED IN SLIDELL, LA
Chronic Skin Inflammation Treated by Dermatologists in Slidell, LA
Painful bumps that recur under the skin are often mistaken for cystic acne—but in many cases, they’re a sign of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa or Verneuil’s disease. At Hilton Dermatology + Aesthetics, our board-certified dermatologists provide expert diagnosis and long-term management of hidradenitis suppurativa in Slidell, LA.
This chronic inflammatory condition affects the sweat glands and hair follicles. Early recognition and targeted treatment are essential to control symptoms, prevent scarring, and improve quality of life. Because HS can progress if untreated, professional evaluation by a dermatologist familiar with its subtle signs is critical for long-term control.
Medical + Cosmetic Dermatology Services
LOCATED IN SLIDELL, LA
What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that develops deep beneath the skin, usually in areas where skin rubs together—such as the underarms, groin, inner thighs, buttocks, and under the breasts.
It occurs when hair follicles become blocked and rupture, leading to painful nodules, boillike abscesses, and draining tunnels (sinus tracts). Over time, repeated inflammation can cause scarring and thickened skin.
HS is not caused by poor hygiene or infection. It is an auto-inflammatory condition influenced by genetics, hormones, and immune overactivity.
Common Symptoms and Stages of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
HS often develops gradually, starting with small bumps that may be mistaken for pimples or ingrown hairs. Without treatment, lesions can enlarge, rupture, and heal with scarring.
Typical symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa include:
HS is typically classified using the Hurley staging system:
Early intervention can help prevent progression from Stage I to more advanced disease.
Who Is Affected by HS?
Hidradenitis suppurativa affects both men and women but is more common in adult women, often beginning after puberty. Risk factors include:
Because hidradenitis suppurativa often overlaps with other immune-related conditions, Hilton Dermatology takes a comprehensive, whole-patient approach to treatment.
LOCATED IN SLIDELL, LA
Why Hidradenitis Suppurativa Is Sometimes Called Acne Inversa
The term “acne inversa” refers to hidradenitis suppurativa ’s tendency to occur in inverse areas of the body—folds or creases—rather than on the face, chest, or back like traditional acne.
While it may resemble severe acne on the surface, hidradenitis suppurativa differs in cause and behavior: it involves inflammation of the hair follicle and immune dysregulation, not bacterial infection. This distinction is crucial because acne medications alone typically do not resolve hidradenitis suppurativa.
Early evaluation by a dermatologist ensures the correct diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa is primarily clinical—based on the pattern and recurrence of lesions. Dermatologists may identify HS by noting:
In some cases, additional tests may be ordered to rule out infection, hormonal imbalance, or other inflammatory diseases.
Prompt diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa allows for earlier medical intervention, which can significantly reduce scarring and long-term complications.
Treatment Options for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
At Hilton Dermatology + Aesthetics, treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa focuses on reducing inflammation, controlling flare-ups, and preventing new lesions. Management is tailored to the severity and stage of each patient’s disease.
Common treatment options for hidradenitis suppurativa include:
Topical & Oral Medications
- Topical clindamycin or resorcinol for mild HS
- Oral antibiotics to reduce bacterial load and inflammation
- Hormonal therapies for women (if indicated)
Biologic Therapy
For moderate to severe HS, biologic therapy—systemic injectable medications that regulate the immune system—can be highly effective.
Examples include:
- Humira® (adalimumab) – the first FDA-approved biologic for HS
- Cosentyx® (secukinumab) – IL-17A inhibitor shown to reduce flare frequency
- Bimzelx® – a prescription medication for moderate to severe HS
These biologics are part of what we call “heavy-duty medical therapy”—advanced treatments that control inflammation from within.
Surgical or Procedural Management
- Incision and drainage for acute abscesses
- Laser hair reduction to reduce follicular blockage
- Surgical excision of affected tissue for chronic or scarring disease
Lifestyle & Supportive Care
- GLP-1 medications – these promote weight loss, which is a critical factor for managing HS
- Smoking cessation
- Loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction
- Antibacterial cleansers and gentle skincare routines
Our dermatologists also provide emotional support and patient education, since HS can significantly impact confidence and quality of life.
Living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic condition, but with modern medical care, flare frequency and severity can be dramatically reduced. Consistent dermatologic follow-up allows for timely adjustments in therapy and early treatment of new hidradenitis suppurativa lesions.
Many hidradenitis suppurativa patients achieve long-term stability and improved comfort through:
- Early diagnosis
- Regular biologic or systemic therapy
- Healthy skin care and lifestyle habits
- Ongoing dermatologist supervision
Our mission is to help patients regain control over their condition and confidence in their skin.
Why Choose Hilton Dermatology + Aesthetics
At Hilton Dermatology + Aesthetics, we provide comprehensive, compassionate care for hidradenitis suppurativa and related inflammatory skin diseases.
Patients across Slidell and the Northshore choose our team for:
- Board-certified expertise in complex inflammatory skin conditions
- Access to advanced biologic and systemic treatments
- Long-term disease management and monitoring
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your condition’s stage and triggers
- Supportive care focused on improving quality of life
Our dermatologists understand that hidradenitis suppurativa is not “just acne”—it’s a chronic medical condition that deserves thoughtful, expert treatment.
LOCATED IN SLIDELL, LA
More Advanced Treatments and Wellness Options
In addition to caring for hidradenitis suppurativa, Hilton Dermatology + Aesthetics offers a full range of medical, surgical, and wellness services to support your overall health and confidence. Our board-certified dermatologists diagnose and treat common skin concerns such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, actinic keratosis, and skin cancer. We also provide biologic therapy for complex skin conditions and GLP-1 weight loss solutions to help patients achieve sustainable results and improved well-being from the inside out.
Get Relief from Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Slidell, LA
If you’re living with painful, recurring bumps or draining lesions in sensitive areas, you may have hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inversa). Early diagnosis and advanced treatment can make a lasting difference.
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Hilton Dermatology + Aesthetics
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday |
8:30am to 4:30pm
