Real-world Efficacy of Sodium Hypochlorite Body Wash in Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition characterized by nodules, abscesses, and tunnels that may develop in various parts of the body, particularly in the axillary, gluteal, and inguinal regions.1 Treatment for HS varies based on clinical presentation and disease progression and encompasses antibiotics, hormonal therapy, biologics, topical treatments, and surgical procedures. Despite the array of available treatment options, patients typically require multiple treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms, which can include antimicrobial cleansers and washes, though there is limited evidence regarding their effectiveness in managing HS. Here, we evaluated real-world patient-assessed efficacy of sodium hypochlorite body wash in the management of hidradenitis suppurativa. Of the 165 participants enrolled, 145 completed a four-week study evaluating daily use of sodium hypochlorite body wash for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), representing all Hurley stages and a wide range of disease durations. Significant improvements were observed across key symptoms, with the greatest reduction in pain (3.52 to 1.62, p<0.001), and over 60 percent of participants reported fewer and shorter flares. Most participants found the wash beneficial, with 88.8 percent recommending it, and there was strong support for the dab method among those who used it. These data support clinical utility of hypochlorite washes in the chronic management of HS.