Homeopathic Cures

• According to the book "Alternative Cures," by Bill Gottlieb, there are a number of natural treatments effective for acne of all levels, including hydradenitis. Beta-carotene and vitamin B are two of the principle treatments suggested.
  
  Beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A, is thought to fight bacteria on the skin. This helps prevent acne. B-complex vitamins help alleviate stress, which may be a contributing factor in acne formation.
  
  "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," by Phyllis Balch, also recommends vitamins A and B, as well as vitamins C, D and E, zinc, colloidal silver and potassium. Such nutrients can help prevent acne and hydradenitis.
  
  

Avoid Hydradenitis

• Recommendations for those prone to hydradenitis or acne include eating a high fiber diet, eating a lot of raw foods, including fruit, and drinking at least eight glasses of water per day. Alcohol, high fat foods and dairy products should be avoided.
  
  While nutrition is a basic factor when dealing with hydradenitis and acne of all kinds, there are some forms of these disorders that have more specific causes and treatments.
  
  Some women have acne or hydradenitis flare-ups associated with menstruation. This occurs when the body releases progesterone after ovulation. It can also result from progesterone in some oral contraceptives. Fatty acids are suggested for alleviation of menstrual acne and hydradenitis.
  
  Hydradenitis and acne may occur at puberty when male sex hormones increase. Hormones such as androgens stimulate the production of sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin. The oil also traps bacteria in the skin's pores, prompting the infectious breakouts of acne and hydradenitis.
  
  Keeping the skin clean and washing away oil helps alleviate acne and hydradenitis in the teenage years. Teenagers should wash no more than twice a day with soaps designed to remove skin oils. Women should not wear makeup if they are prone to acne or hydradenitis.
  
  Other suggestions include avoiding stress, spending 15 minutes in direct sunlight, exercising regularly and getting adequate sleep.