The role of depilation and deodorants in hidradenitis suppurativa

Abstract

Shaving and the use of chemical depilatories, deodorants, and talcum powder have been implicated in the initiation of hidradenitis suppurativa. This study compared the use of these agents in the axillae and puboinguinoperineal (hereinafter called the inguinal) region of 40 patients with hidradenitis, prior to the onset of the condition, with their use in normal age- and sex-matched controls. No significant differences in the application of shaving, chemical depilatories, or deodorants at either site in patients with hidradenitis as compared with the normal controls were demonstrated. In both male and female controls there was an increased application of talcum powder to the axillae and inguinal regions as compared with patients with hidradenitis prior to the onset of the condition. We conclude that these agents are not primarily involved in the initiation of hidradenitis suppurativa.

Hidradenitis suppurativa

“…A conclusive demonstration, however, requires proof of a temporal relationship and an improvement in HS following weight loss. Antiperspirant, talc, and deodorant use and depilation with a safety razor have been ruled out as pathogenic factors [10]. Tight clothing may contribute to discomfort and is considered a triggering factor by some authors.…”

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

“…28 Two studies have been unable to identify differences in the pattern of use of cosmetics, shaving, or use of talcum in HS. 28,92 Histological data which could substantiate an irritant component of early HS provide mixed results. One study found infrainfundibular spongiosis in early lesions, while another study found no signs of irritant reactions (spongiosis or parakeratosis).…”

Gluteal and Perianal Hidradenitis Suppurativa

“…Time for complete wound healing for patients treated by excision and second intention healing varied proportionally to the extent and degree of infection of the unroofed area, with a mean of ten weeks (range, 7-17 weeks). In the patients treated by excision and skin grafting, the time until complete healing was shorter, with a mean of six (range, [3][4][5][6][7][8][9] weeks. Partial loss of the skin graft occurred in nine (37.5 percent) patients treated with this technique.…”