Glycolic acid aids in exfoliation and helps unclog pores, which may be beneficial in managing symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). However, its efficacy in treating HS is not well studied.

People frequently use glycolic acid to treat skin conditions, like acne and age spots, due to its ability to remove dead skin cells, oil, dirt, and other debris that clog pores. It also has antibacterial and antioxidant benefits that may help soothe skin and improve its health.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a chronic skin disease characterized by inflamed, painful lesions that may sometimes be mistaken for severe acne. These lesions particularly occur in areas where sweat glands rub together, like the armpits or groin.

HS and acne are distinct conditions that may be caused by hormonal issues, and they commonly co-occur. They share symptoms, such as inflammation and clogged hair follicles, which may further suggest some overlap in treatment methods.

According to dermatologist Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry, glycolic acid is typically used for its exfoliating properties. “While there isn’t specific research on HS and glycolic acid, some patients may find it helps in reducing pore clogging.”

Glycolic acid essentially breaks down the skin’s outer layer, revealing smoother and more even skin underneath. This tends to reduce acne symptoms by removing the buildup that clogs pores and leads to breakouts.

In a 2022 study on cosmetic acids and acne vulgaris, researchers found that biweekly peeling sessions with 35% glycolic acid significantly reduced the number of inflammatory and noninflammatory acne lesions by about 71% after 12 weeks.

There is currently a lack of evidence suggesting that glycolic acid can treat HS, in particular. However, applying it to HS outbreaks may help reduce lesion severity, especially when used in addition to traditional treatments, like antibiotics or corticosteroid injections.

Though more research is needed to confirm, other potentially beneficial options to consider include the following.

Resorcinol

Most research on chemical peeling agents for HS concerns resorcinol, which seems to be the most promising option for reducing lesion size and severity so far.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) also considers resorcinol to be an effective treatment for HS due to its ability to open clogged hair follicles and curb inflammation.

In a 2022 study, researchers concluded that topical resorcinol 15% may be an effective alternative to using the antibiotic clindamycin to treat HS. It’s often used as a second-line treatment after antibiotics. However, due to patients’ antibiotic resistance to HS over time, researchers concluded resorcinol may be a more sustainable option.

Likewise, Dr. Chaudhry supports the use of resorcinol to treat HS. He notes that it’s usually employed as a second-line treatment after traditional treatments, like antibiotics, have failed to work.

Salicylic acid

“Speaking of other peeling agents, salicylic acid could potentially be beneficial,” Dr. Chaudhry suggests.

He explains that salicylic acid, also known as beta hydroxy acid (BHA), “is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate deeper into the skin and clear out excess sebum. This could potentially be beneficial for preventing clogged pores, a key issue in HS.”

However, there’s a lack of research on the link between salicylic acid and HS in particular.

Benzoyl peroxide

According to a 2019 review, using topical 10% benzoyl peroxide gel alongside 1% clindamycin gel moderately improved HS symptoms by about 23%. That said, researchers found a much greater improvement when 10% benzoyl peroxide gel was used alongside laser hair removal, as symptoms were reduced by nearly 73%.

However, there are no studies on the impact of benzoyl peroxide on HS alone.

Other topicals

In the 2019 review, researchers noted that some specialists consider the following to be beneficial in the treatment of HS:

However, there is currently not enough evidence to confirm their efficacy.

If possible, speak with a dermatologist before trying glycolic acid to treat your HS. Most topical acids, including glycolic acid, used on the skin have the potential to dry it out or irritate it. Common reactions to applying glycolic acid to the skin include:

  • itching
  • inflammation
  • burning

Glycolic acid can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so using sunscreen is important.

Glycolic acid comes in formulas ranging from 1% to 40%. Experts consider anything with a concentration of 30% and higher a medical-grade peel and recommend it be applied only when supported by a qualified professional.

Starting with lower concentrations and applying it less frequently can help minimize its side effects. If your skin tolerates the product well, you can slowly increase its application over time.

Glycolic acid may also cause hyperpigmentation in those with darker skin tones, meaning the skin may appear darker with use.

It’s also a good idea to do a patch test. Consider applying the glycolic acid serum to a very small portion of your skin and waiting at least 24 hours before applying it to your HS outbreaks.

There is currently no medical research about using glycolic acid to treat hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), but it is proven to help treat acne. By the same mechanism, some experts think it may potentially clear pores and reduce the size and severity of HS lesions.

Resorcinol is another acid that’s more commonly used and proven to treat HS. If possible, speak with a dermatologist before trying any topical solutions to treat your HS.

Although HS doesn’t yet have a cure, treatments, like topical acids, may help reduce symptoms and help people live well. They may be especially helpful when coupled with traditional treatments, like antibiotics.

Dr. Chaudhry explains that managing HS typically requires a comprehensive approach. To help manage symptoms, he also recommends:

  • quitting smoking
  • maintaining a moderate weight
  • having regular checkups with a dermatologist