What is hidradenitis suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic systemic condition that results in painful boil-like abscesses that can occur anywhere on the body, other than the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and the lips. HS most commonly affects the underarms, under the breasts, groin, inner thighs and buttocks. In most cases, the abscesses continue to recur and are known to drain odorous discharge. The abscesses commonly form “tunnels” under the skin and leave scarring. HS is commonly misdiagnosed, and in many cases, patients don’t seek medical treatment due to the shame and stigma surrounding this condition.
HS impacts both men and women at any age. HS is not caused by poor hygiene, weight, or smoking. HS is not an STD and is not contagious. It is believed that a genetic/family link does exist, however, the degree of this link is still under investigation. HS has an incredible impact on quality of life and mental health. Please visit HS Connect for more information about HS and finding a community.
HS can be unpredictable. Flares may cause pain, swelling, drainage, odor, and scarring, which can affect daily activities and quality of life.
Why use CLn Bodywash for HS Prone Skin?
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In a 2025 real-world study of 145 people with HS, participants reported improvements in pain, redness, swelling, drainage, and itching over four weeks, and more than 63% reported fewer and shorter flares.(Omole 2025)
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CLn BodyWash is a gentle, over-the-counter daily cleanser for HS prone skin HS
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CLn BodyWash is not a cure for HS and does not replace prescription medications or medical care.
HS can be difficult to manage and often takes many different treatment approaches including medication, surgery, over the counter options, and potential lifestyle modifications. CLn BodyWash has shown to help with pain, redness, swelling, drainage and itching. Sixty-three percent of patients in the study reported fewer and shorter flare cycles using CLn BodyWash.
The majority of the patients who participated in the study were stage 2 and 3 HS and have had HS for 15+ years and reported positive changes in their HS with the simple addition of CLn BodyWash as their cleanser.
CLn BodyWash is not meant to replace current treatments, but to be used in addition to any physician recommended treatments. Until recently, there haven’t been many over the counter options that are effective in helping HS symptoms.
CLn BodyWash is formulated as a gentle daily cleanser for skin prone to HS. It contains sodium hypochlorite, the same chemistry behind dilute bleach baths, in a daily gentle cleanser, and is designed to provide a cleansing step that can be incorporated into a daily skincare routine.
Gentle cleansing matters because people living with HS may have sensitive or compromised skin, particularly during or after flares. A daily cleanser should be gentle enough for regular use CLn is safe to use on open wounds and can help keep the area clean without unnecessarily drying or irritating the skin. Unlike other cleansers on the market, CLn is gentle enough for daily use.
The “Dab Method” was also recommended to participants in the study. The “Dab Method” includes applying the cleanser directly to an area where you feel a flare coming on, or there is currently a flare or lesion, and leaving the cleanser on for up to 24 hours without needing to wash it off.
In the study, 3 out of 4 participants tried the "dab method,” and 85% percent of those who tried the "dab method" said they would continue using this method.
What the research says about CLn BodyWash for HS
A 2025 real-world study evaluated a sodium hypochlorite body wash among 145 people with HS over four weeks, and participants reported improvements in pain, redness, swelling, drainage, and itching.[Omole 2025]
A few details from the study include:
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90% of participants were categorized as Hurley stages 2 and 3.
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63.5% reported a decrease in the number of flares.
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62.7% reported a decrease in flare duration.
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88.8% said they would recommend the cleanser to other people with HS.
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3 out of 4 participants tried the "dab method," applying the cleanser directly to a flared lesion and leaving it on the skin for up to 24 hours without washing off immediately. 85% of those who tried the "dab method" said they would continue using this method.
These findings, published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, provide real-world evidence supporting the use of a sodium hypochlorite body wash as part of a daily skincare routine for people with HS.
The results do not mean a body wash resolves HS on its own. Rather, they provide supporting evidence for incorporating this type of cleanser into the broader toolkit available to people managing the condition.
Is CLn BodyWash a substitute for prescription HS medication?
No. CLn BodyWash is an over-the-counter daily cleanser for skin prone to HS, and it is not a substitute for prescription medications or other medical care recommended by your healthcare provider.
For people who require medical care for HS, CLn BodyWash can instead be considered an additional skincare tool within the broader routine recommended by their healthcare professional.
Where can people with HS find support?
Finding a community of people who understand HS can help reduce isolation and provide opportunities to share experiences and resources. HS Connect provides patient-focused education, resources, and community support for people living with HS.
Summary
HS is a chronic condition best managed with a combination of medications, daily skin care, emotional and community support. CLn BodyWash is an over-the-counter, dermatologist-recommended cleansing step for skin prone to HS, backed by real-world study results, that fits alongside the recommendations from your care your healthcare provider.
Frequently asked questions
What did the CLn BodyWash HS study find?
In a four-week real-world study of 145 people with HS, participants reported improvements in pain, redness, swelling, drainage, and itching. More than 63% reported fewer and shorter flares during the study period.
Can CLn BodyWash take the place of my HS medication?
No. CLn BodyWash is an over-the-counter daily cleanser formulated for HS prone skin. It is not a cure for HS and does not replace prescription medications or medical care. Think of it as a cleansing step in your daily routine alongside your treatment plan.
How do I use a BodyWash alongside my HS medication?
CLn BodyWash can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine as a cleanser.
Is CLn BodyWash available without a prescription?
Yes. CLn BodyWash is an over-the-counter cleanser, so it does not require a prescription. It is a gentle daily cleanser formulated for HS prone skin that is easily added to your daily routine.
Can a skincare routine help people living with HS?
A consistent skincare routine can help people living with HS; typically a skincare routine is one part of an overall larger treatment plan. CLn BodyWash offers an over-the-counter option backed by real-world data. Using CLn does not replace medications and should be incorporated as part of your overall treatment management plan.
Where can I find HS support?
HS Connect is a non-profit patient advocacy organization that provides education and resources for people living with HS. Your healthcare provider can also help you find appropriate professional and community support.
Living with HS often requires a combination of approaches. Medical care, daily skin care, lifestyle considerations, and emotional and community support all have a place in the overall picture. CLn BodyWash provides an over-the-counter, dermatologist-recommended cleansing option for HS prone skin, backed by real-world study results. Alongside the medical care and support recommended by your healthcare provider, CLn BodyWash is one tool in the broader HS care toolbox,