• Occurs when the hair follicles gets blocked and inflamed. Exact reason for this blockage is unknown. Contribution to the blockage includes:
• Variations in hormone
• Genetics
• Smoking
• Overweight
• Tight clothing with non-breathable material

• Reduce weight
• Wear loose outfits
• Avoid smoking
• Minimize damage to the boils
• Maintain hygiene
• Avoid skin contact with chemicals, fragrances and dyes

If untreated, the complications may include:

• the affected area is susceptible to infection.
• the wounds heal leaving behind scars, puckered skin or pigmentation.
• Restricted and painful movement when the disease affects the armpits or groins.
• Scar tissue may interfere with the lymph drainage system which ends up in swelling of the arms, legs or genitals.
• Social isolation due to the location. Discharge and body odour can cause embarrassment and reluctance to mingle in public. This may lead to a depressive state.
• Rarely, squamous cell carcinoma can develop in the affected skin.

Early diagnosis and treatment will help manage the condition and further development of new lumps.

Medication

Antibiotics: Control inflammation and if any infection. Usually a combination of drugs are prescribed.

Rifampicin . Clindamycin

Corticosteroids: Directly injected to the lumps to reduce inflammation and pain.

Cortisone

Retinoids: Help repair abnormal hair follicles and glands.

Isotretinoin