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Medical dermatology
Hidradenitis suppurativa treatment in Richardson, TX
Care for painful, recurring boils in the underarms, groin and skin folds, from a board-certified dermatologist who sees every patient herself.
Dr. Kelsie Riemenschneider
MD, FAAD · Board-certified dermatologist. You will see her at every visit.
Overview
What causes hidradenitis suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa, or HS, is a long-term inflammatory condition of the hair follicles. It causes painful lumps, boils and draining tunnels under the skin in areas where skin rubs together: the underarms, groin, buttocks and under the breasts. It usually starts after puberty and comes in flares.
HS is not an infection, it is not contagious and it is not caused by poor hygiene. It is linked to genetics, hormones, smoking and weight. Many people are treated for ordinary boils or ingrown hairs for years before HS is diagnosed. Early treatment can limit scarring and keep the condition from progressing.
When to see a dermatologist
Boils keep returning in the underarms, groin, buttocks or under the breasts
Lumps drain, leave scars or seem connected under the skin
You have had abscesses drained more than once
Pain is interfering with work, exercise or sleep
Stages of HS we treat
Early HS. One or a few painful lumps that come and go, without scarring.
Moderate HS. Recurring lumps in more than one area, with some tunnels and scars.
Advanced HS. Widespread, connected tunnels and scarring across an area.
Acute flares. A sudden, very painful lump that needs quick relief.
Treatment
How we treat hidradenitis suppurativa
HS needs a long-term plan, not only treatment of each flare. Dr. Riemenschneider matches treatment to the stage of your HS and combines approaches to reduce flares, relieve pain and prevent new scarring.
Topical and oral medications. Antiseptic washes, clindamycin lotion, oral antibiotics such as doxycycline and hormonal treatment such as spironolactone.
Biologic injections. Medications such as adalimumab (Humira) and secukinumab (Cosentyx) for moderate to severe HS.
In-office treatment. Steroid injections to calm a painful lump quickly, and minor procedures to open persistent tunnels.
Daily care plan. Practical guidance on clothing, hair removal, wound care, weight and stopping smoking, all of which affect flares.
Your visit
What to expect at your HS visit
Tell us your history. Where the lumps appear, how often they flare and what has been tried.
Dr. Riemenschneider examines the affected areas. The exam is done privately and respectfully, and it confirms the diagnosis and stage.
You leave with a plan. Treatment for the current flare and a plan to prevent the next one.
In network with most major health plans. See every plan we accept
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No. HS is an inflammatory condition, not an infection, and it cannot spread to other people.
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No. HS has nothing to do with cleanliness. It comes from inflammation around the hair follicle, and washing more will not clear it.
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There is no cure yet, but treatment can greatly reduce flares, pain and drainage. Many people reach long stretches with few or no symptoms.
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Apply warm compresses, wear loose clothing and avoid squeezing the lump. Call us, because a steroid injection can often calm a painful lump.
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It can, especially without treatment, as repeated flares lead to tunnels and scars. That is the strongest reason to start treatment early.
Related care Acne Cyst and lipoma removal Keloids and scars Excessive sweating All medical dermatology
Reviewed by Dr. Kelsie Riemenschneider, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist. Last reviewed October 2026. Source: American Academy of Dermatology.
Plan your visit
See a dermatologist for hidradenitis suppurativa in Richardson
Address 702 W Arapaho Rd, Suite 104, Richardson, TX 75080
Hours Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM
Phone 214-833-5300