What Vitamins are Good for HS? A Guide to Nutritional Support for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

October 23, 2025 •

3 min read

Did you know that a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is consistently observed in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), with rates sometimes reaching 75–100%? Emerging research suggests that certain vitamins can play a supportive role in managing this chronic inflammatory skin condition, and understanding what vitamins are good for HS can be a valuable part of a holistic treatment plan.

Quick Summary

This guide explores key vitamins and minerals, including zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins, that can serve as adjuncts to hidradenitis suppurativa treatment. It reviews how nutritional support can potentially help modulate immune response and reduce inflammation for HS patients.

Key Points

Zinc Supplementation: Studies indicate zinc can reduce inflammation and improve HS symptoms, particularly for those with a confirmed deficiency.
Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in HS patients, and supplementation has been shown to reduce disease severity for those with low levels.
Immune-Modulating B Vitamins: Vitamin B12 and nicotinamide (B3) may help regulate inflammation and support longer flare-free periods, especially when used with zinc.
Antioxidant Support: Vitamins C and E possess antioxidant properties that can help reduce the oxidative stress associated with HS inflammation.
Professional Guidance is Key: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure safety and proper use, and to monitor potential interactions.
Holistic Approach: Nutritional support, including specific vitamins, is best used as an adjunct to conventional treatments and overall healthy lifestyle changes for effective HS management.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a complex, inflammatory skin condition, and while there is no cure, a multifaceted approach to management can help alleviate symptoms. Alongside conventional medical treatments, nutritional strategies are gaining attention for their potential to support overall health and reduce inflammation. Several vitamins and minerals, particularly those with anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, show promise as adjunct therapies.

The Anti-Inflammatory Power of Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral crucial for immune function and wound healing. Studies suggest HS patients often have lower zinc levels, which may correlate with disease severity. Zinc's anti-inflammatory properties may help manage the inflammation in HS, potentially by affecting TNF production and immune cell balance. Some research indicates that zinc supplementation may improve disease severity and quality of life. While generally safe, high intake can interfere with copper absorption, so medical guidance is essential for proper use and monitoring.

The Role of Vitamin D in HS Management

Vitamin D is important for skin health and immune regulation. Vitamin D deficiency is common in HS patients and linked to increased disease severity. It can help reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in HS and is vital for skin and hair follicle function. Screening for vitamin D deficiency is recommended, and supplementation may help deficient patients reach optimal levels.

Supporting the Immune System with Vitamin B12 and B3

Some B vitamins may benefit HS patients by helping to mitigate inflammation. Low B12 levels have been observed in some patients, and supplementation might help regulate inflammatory markers. Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3), especially when combined with zinc, has shown potential as a well-tolerated therapy for mild to moderate HS, possibly reducing flares.

Vitamin A and Skin Health in HS

Vitamin A derivatives (retinoids) are used for skin conditions and have been explored for HS. Retinoids like acitretin may help manage mild to moderate HS. However, these treatments can have significant side effects, requiring careful medical supervision.

Harnessing Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E

Oxidative stress contributes to inflammation in HS. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. More research is needed to determine their optimal use in HS treatment.

A Comparison of Key Vitamins for HS


Vitamin	Primary Role in HS	Typical Supplement Form	Key Benefits	Clinical Considerations
Zinc	Modulates immune function, anti-inflammatory	Oral zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate	Reduces inflammation, improves lesions, supports wound healing	Gastrointestinal side effects possible; high intake can cause copper deficiency
Vitamin D	Immune regulation, skin cell growth	Cholecalciferol	Reduces inflammatory cytokines, may improve lesion regression	Very common deficiency in HS; requires level monitoring
Vitamin B12	Reduces inflammatory homocysteine levels	Oral or intramuscular	May reduce flares, especially in HS with comorbidities like Crohn's	Limited high-quality evidence; best for those with documented deficiency
Vitamin A	Regulates cell growth; derivatives used	Retinoid medications (acitretin, isotretinoin)	Can help manage mild-to-moderate HS	Potential teratogenicity and side effects like dry skin; for dermatologist use only
Vitamin C & E	Antioxidant, reduces oxidative stress	Oral supplements	May decrease inflammation and lesion severity	More research needed on optimal use and effectiveness

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Consulting a healthcare provider before starting any supplements is crucial. Vitamins should complement, not replace, medical treatments. A doctor can assess your nutritional status through blood tests and recommend appropriate supplements. This ensures safe and effective integration into your HS management plan.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach

Incorporating nutritional factors, including specific vitamins, can be a vital part of a holistic approach to managing HS symptoms. Vitamins like zinc, vitamin D, and certain B vitamins may offer anti-inflammatory benefits that could reduce disease severity and improve quality of life. Combining evidence-based nutritional support, under medical supervision, with lifestyle changes and conventional therapies can lead to a more comprehensive and personalized approach to controlling this chronic condition.

Resources and Citations

For more detailed information on hidradenitis suppurativa and nutrition, you may find the following resources helpful:

Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Five Key Vitamins and Minerals: A comprehensive review from Skin Appendage Disorders.
Dietary Factors and Hidradenitis Suppurativa: An insightful review from the American Journal of Managed Care.
Evaluating the impact of high-dose vitamin D3, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc supplementation on inflammatory cytokines… in hidradenitis suppurativa: A recent review from the International Journal of Research in Dermatology.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, vitamins are not a cure for hidradenitis suppurativa. They are considered complementary or adjunctive treatments that can help manage symptoms by addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies and modulating inflammation.

The appropriate amount should be determined in consultation with a healthcare provider to suit individual needs and avoid potential side effects.

Yes, research consistently shows a significant association. A high percentage of HS patients are vitamin D deficient, and studies have found an inverse relationship between vitamin D levels and disease severity.

Some evidence, including case series, suggests that B12 supplementation might help, particularly in patients with HS and inflammatory bowel disease, by potentially regulating inflammatory markers like homocysteine. More research is needed, but it may be beneficial, especially if a deficiency is present.

Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are involved in HS pathology. Studies are evaluating their impact, and they may be a useful part of a broader nutritional strategy.

Yes, it is often beneficial to have your vitamin levels, such as vitamin D and zinc, checked by a healthcare provider at the time of diagnosis. This can help identify any deficiencies and guide an appropriate supplementation plan.

Yes, taking supplements, especially in larger amounts, can carry risks. For example, high zinc intake can lead to copper deficiency, and certain retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) have significant side effects. Always discuss supplementation with a healthcare provider to ensure safety.