People with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) know there aren't many treatment options nowadays, and there is a clear reason for that. Compared to other skin conditions HS research started much later, and is still catching up. But we have collected all the information about available options for HS right now, what researchers currently study and what are the reasons behind the slow progress on that study.
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Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) treatment options available right now
Currently, FDA approved only three medicines specifically for HS, all of them aren't directed to cure the condition itself, but just calm the immune system. The first medicine Adalimumab (Humira) was approved only in 2015, it works on blocking inflammation by targeting specific types of protein. The next medicine called Secukinumab (Cosentyx) followed in 2023 has the same goal, but works on different types of protein. The third one is called Bimekizumab (Bimzelx) targets two related proteins at once.
There is still a lot of progress ahead, and currently researchers are actively studying additional options through clinical trials.
What researchers are studying now?
Some studies are looking at surgical and wound-care techniques, the skin's microbiome, and combining medicine with procedures. Beyond that, researchers are working towards more medication and additional biologics that work on inflammation pathways beyond the three approved so far. One of them, brivekimig, showed promising early results in 2025: about 2 out of 3 patients saw major skin improvement within 16 weeks. Also a class of pills already used for other inflammatory conditions called JAK inhibitors, are also being studied for HS. This study includes people whose biologic stopped working for them. Beyond medication, some studies are looking at surgical and wound-care techniques, the skin's microbiome, and combining medicine with procedures.
Why HS research takes time?
There are a few reasons why hidradenitis suppurativa research is taking much longer compared to other skin conditions. Along with that, these reasons also explain the importance of participating in clinical trials for HS.
The placebo problem. It is surprising, but many participants can really see results after taking placebo, not real drugs. It is likely because HS naturally flares and settles on its own. That makes it harder to prove a medicine has more results than a placebo, so researchers need larger, longer studies to get a clear answer.
The measurement problem. Measurement isn't that easy for HS. There are three different types of skin lesions: abscesses, nodules, and tunnels. Even experienced dermatologists can disagree on how to classify them, especially on darker skin tones where inflammation can be harder to see.
The representation problem. About 1 in 3 people with HS in the US. is Black, yet HS studies have enrolled mostly white participants. That happened because most of the earlier studies happened in Europe. Since people in a study didn't reflect the people living with the condition, the results didn't always translate well to everyone who needs them. The good news: most current trials are actively working towards closing this gap, which is also changing eligibility criteria.
Does HS affect more than the skin?
Yes, researchers link HS to many other diseases, like diabetes, metabolic syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and cardiovascular disease. That is why current studies look at HS as a condition that affects the whole body, not just the skin. If you're living with HS, this is a good reason to talk to your doctor about your overall health, not just your flare-ups.
Common myths about HS
HS used to be called "acne inversa." That name stuck around for years, but it's misleading. HS isn't a type of acne. It doesn't start with blackheads or whiteheads, and it doesn't happen for the same reasons acne does.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is not caused by poor hygiene, and it's not contagious. It shows up in areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits, groin, and under the breasts because skin naturally rubs and traps moisture there.
HS is often tied to hormones. Many people notice it starts around puberty and gets better after menopause. This is one reason researchers think hormones play a role, along with genes and the immune system.
The clinical stages of hidradenitis suppurativa
Doctors grade HS severity using the Hurley system. Many studies use it to decide who can join, that is why your stage matters
Stage 1
Single or scattered tender lumps in areas where skin rubs together, which come and go without scarring. Management usually starts with topical treatments, warm compresses, and lifestyle changes like loose clothing, quitting smoking, and weight management.
Stage 2
Recurring lumps that begin to cluster and connect, with the narrow tunnels under the skin and scarring. Oral antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and minor procedures like drainage or laser therapy are typically added at this stage.
Stage 3
At this stage widespread interconnected lesions and tunnels, significant scarring, chronic pain, and a real impact on mobility and daily life. Care usually combines medical therapies with procedures, surgery, and ongoing wound care.
Want to know the full breakdown of symptoms and treatment at each stage?
Read our guide: Hidradenitis Suppurativa Stages
How to find an Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) study?
Every study sets its own criteria, but most look at your stage that rates how severe your HS is, your flare history, and what you've already tried. Studies testing options beyond the three approved medicines often specifically look for people whose current option has stopped working well for them.
You can find an HS study and apply directly through our platform, choose the one that suits you best, check eligibility criteria and submit an application in 5 minutes. A clinical trial coordinator will review it and contact you about next steps.
Common questions
Why are there so few approved options for HS? Mainly timing. Serious clinical research into HS only picked up in the last 15–20 years, well behind other skin conditions. But the current wave of studies is expected to close that gap.
What is HiSCR? It stands for Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response, that is the main scale researchers use to measure whether a study medicine is working, based on how much a person's abscesses and nodules shrink.
Is HS just a skin condition? Not entirely. It might be linked to broader health factors like blood sugar, inflammation elsewhere in the body, and heart health, which is why some doctors treat it as a whole-body condition rather than a purely cosmetic or skin-deep issue.
See HS clinical trials recruiting near you:
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Trials