Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

What It Is

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that commonly appears in areas where the skin folds — such as the underarms, groin, thighs, or beneath the breasts. HS often begins as painful bumps that can progress into tunnels or scarring over time.

Why It Matters

Research shows that HS occurs more often and more severely in Black individuals and is commonly underdiagnosed. Many people spend years believing they simply have “ingrown hairs,” “boils,” or “sensitive areas” before learning HS is a real medical condition. However, conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, eczema, and folliculitis can affect people of every race and skin tone.

What Helps Support HS-Prone Skin

While cosmetic products cannot treat HS, certain ingredients can support comfort, help maintain cleanliness, and respect the skin barrier, which may be beneficial in daily care routines.

Examples include:

Naturally antimicrobial but gentle ingredients, moisture-based products that support the skin’s natural barrier, non-fragranced or minimally irritating formulations, blends that help soften dry or tight-feeling areas, (Kindred fits here — but never as a treatment, only as a comfort-supporting product.)

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition linked to dryness, itchiness, and a weakened or sensitive skin barrier. It can show up as patches that feel rough, tight, irritated, or appear lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. Eczema can affect anyone, at any age, and often shifts with weather, stress, or changes in the skin’s natural moisture levels.

While skincare cannot treat eczema, daily routines that support moisture balance, barrier strength, and overall comfort can play an important role in how the skin feels. Many people find benefit in rich, fatty-acid–dense moisturizers, gentle fragrance-aware products, and ingredients that help the skin stay hydrated and soothed.

Products like Muse and Kindred can fit into a supportive routine due to their focus on moisture, barrier nourishment, and comfort, making them suitable for skin that feels dry, tight, or easily irritated.