Laser treatment for Hidradenitis Supurativa?

Megan, I am a 34 year old female and have recently been diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa. Can laser hair removal help with my condition? -E

Dear E.

Thank you for asking Megan Larson, one of our wonderful PA-C’s at Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center in Renton about Hidradenitis Supurativa and laser hair removal.

Here is Megan’s answer:

Yes, laser hair removal can be helpful for many patients with this condition. We use either Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or the LightSheer Duet Diode laser. It takes a series of treatment sessions, and should be used in combination with other forms of treatments.

Hidradenitis suppurativa, or acne inversa, is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful bumps and nodules in areas that rub, like the armpits and groin.  This condition affects mostly women between puberty and 40-years-old, and about 1-4% of the population has it.  The bumps and nodules can become swollen and painful, can become inflamed and leak pus, and can lead to scarring and disfigurement.  As one can imagine, this condition can cause significant psychological distress and can affect people’s self-esteem and the way they interact with others.  There are many treatments for hidradenitis suppurativa, and some people are able to attain full clearance while others suffer a more chronic and relapsing course.  A few of the treatment options include topical medications, oral medications, injections, surgery, and lasers.  At Pacific Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in NorthGate Seattle, or in Renton, we do everything we can to try and help our patients achieve full clearance and maintain it.  We tailor our treatment plans to the needs of the individual patient, and will work with them to attain their optimal result.

Megan Larson, PA-C

Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center, Renton

425-970-4155