Finding an HS-Experienced Dermatologist
Getting the right specialist can make a profound difference in HS care. This guide covers where to search for HS-experienced dermatologists, what to ask at your first appointment, and how to recognize a provider who truly understands this condition.
Why Finding the Right Specialist Matters
HS is frequently misdiagnosed and undertreated. Studies suggest that patients wait an average of 7-10 years from symptom onset to receiving a correct HS diagnosis. During that time, many patients see multiple providers who are unfamiliar with the condition, leading to delayed treatment and unnecessary disease progression.
A dermatologist with genuine HS experience can accurately stage your disease, discuss all available treatment options including biologics, coordinate surgical care when needed, and take your quality of life impact seriously. Finding this provider is one of the most important steps in your HS journey.
You are entitled to seek a second opinion at any time. If your current provider dismisses your symptoms, is unfamiliar with HS, or has not discussed all available treatment options, seeking another perspective is appropriate and encouraged.
Where to Search for an HS Specialist
These directories and resources can help you identify dermatologists with HS experience in your area.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) - Find a Dermatologist
The AAD's official Find a Dermatologist tool lets you search by ZIP code, specialty, and insurance. Look for dermatologists who list inflammatory skin conditions or hidradenitis suppurativa among their areas of focus.
Tip: Filter by specialty and search for 'hidradenitis' or 'inflammatory skin disease' to narrow results to HS-experienced providers.
American Academy of Dermatology - HS Patient Resource
The AAD's patient-facing HS resource explains the condition, symptoms, treatment options, and when to see a specialist. It is a reliable starting point for understanding what to expect from a dermatology appointment.
Tip: Review this page before your first appointment so you can speak confidently about your symptoms and ask informed questions.
ClinicalTrials.gov - HS Studies
The NIH's official clinical trials registry lists all active HS studies in the United States and worldwide. Academic medical centers conducting HS research often accept patients as study participants, which can provide access to specialist care.
Tip: Filter by 'Recruiting' status and your location to find HS studies near you. Participation may provide access to leading HS specialists.
No Local Specialist? Try Telehealth
Many HS patients live in areas without an experienced specialist nearby. Telehealth dermatology has expanded significantly and can provide access to HS-knowledgeable providers for initial consultations, treatment planning, prescription management, and ongoing follow-up - without requiring travel.
What Telehealth Can Do for HS
Initial diagnosis and Hurley staging assessment
Biologic prescription and prior authorization support
Flare management and medication adjustments
Second opinion on your current treatment plan
Referral coordination for in-person surgery when needed
Tips for Telehealth HS Visits
Take clear photos of all affected areas before your visit
Prepare a written symptom history with dates and severity
Have your current medication list ready
Ask specifically if the provider has HS experience
Request a follow-up plan and escalation path for flares
Teladoc Dermatology
One of the largest telehealth networks in the US, offering dermatology consultations with board-certified dermatologists. Available in most states.
VisitMDLive Dermatology
MDLive connects patients with board-certified dermatologists via video visit. Available in most US states, often with same-day or next-day appointments.
VisitSesame Care - Dermatology
Sesame offers transparent, low-cost telehealth dermatology visits with no insurance required. Search by specialty and location to find available providers.
VisitHow to Prepare for Your First Appointment
Being prepared helps you make the most of limited appointment time and ensures your dermatologist has the information needed to evaluate your case accurately.
Document your disease history
Write down when symptoms started, which body areas are affected, Hurley stage if known, and all treatments tried (including what helped and what did not).
Photograph your lesions
Clear photographs of affected areas help the dermatologist assess severity and track progress over time. Take photos before your appointment.
List all current medications
Include prescription medications, over-the-counter products, supplements, and any topical treatments you are using on affected areas.
Bring your questions
Print or save your list of questions. Appointments can feel rushed - having questions written down ensures you cover what matters most to you.
Bring a support person if possible
A trusted friend or family member can help remember information, ask follow-up questions, and provide emotional support during the appointment.
Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist
These questions can help you assess whether a dermatologist has the experience and approach that your HS care requires.
Experience and Expertise
How many HS patients do you currently treat?
Do you have experience with Hurley Stage II and III HS?
Are you familiar with the current HS treatment guidelines?
Do you have experience prescribing biologics for HS (adalimumab, secukinumab, bimekizumab)?
Treatment Approach
What is your general approach to treating HS - do you follow a step-up protocol?
Do you work with a multidisciplinary team (surgeons, wound care specialists, mental health)?
How do you approach flare management vs. long-term disease control?
What is your experience with HS surgery (deroofing, wide excision)?
Practical and Logistics
How quickly can I be seen for a flare?
Do you have a nurse or PA who specializes in HS follow-up?
How do you handle urgent questions between appointments?
Do you participate in any HS clinical trials?
Insurance and Access
Do you accept my insurance plan?
Do you assist with biologic prior authorization?
Are you familiar with manufacturer patient assistance programs for HS biologics?
What is the typical wait time for a new patient appointment?
Recognizing the Right Provider
Red Flags to Watch For
Dismisses HS as 'just boils' or suggests it is caused by poor hygiene
Has never heard of HS or is unfamiliar with current treatment guidelines
Refuses to consider biologics for moderate-to-severe disease
Does not take your pain and quality of life impact seriously
Has no plan for flare management between scheduled appointments
Cannot explain the difference between Hurley stages
Positive Signs to Look For
Familiar with current HS treatment guidelines (AAD, European guidelines)
Has experience with biologics and can navigate prior authorization
Takes a holistic view including pain, mental health, and quality of life
Has a clear plan for both long-term control and acute flare management
Willing to coordinate with other specialists (surgeons, wound care)
Listens to your experience and validates the severity of your condition
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of doctor is best for HS?
A board-certified dermatologist with experience in inflammatory skin diseases is generally the best starting point for HS care. For surgical cases, a dermatologic surgeon or plastic surgeon with HS experience may be needed. Some academic centers have dedicated HS multidisciplinary clinics.
What if there are no HS specialists near me?
Many HS patients face this challenge. Options include: telehealth consultations with HS-experienced dermatologists (increasingly available), traveling to an academic center for an initial evaluation and treatment plan, asking your primary care physician for a referral to the nearest academic dermatology department, and joining HS patient communities where members share specialist recommendations.
How do I know if my dermatologist is experienced enough with HS?
Ask directly how many HS patients they treat and whether they are familiar with current treatment guidelines. A knowledgeable HS dermatologist should be able to discuss biologics, Hurley staging, and surgical options confidently. If you feel dismissed or undertreated, seeking a second opinion is always appropriate.
Should I see a dermatologist or a general practitioner for HS?
While a general practitioner can provide initial diagnosis and basic management, moderate-to-severe HS typically requires specialist care. A dermatologist with HS experience is better equipped to manage complex cases, prescribe biologics, and coordinate surgical referrals when needed.
Can I ask for a second opinion if I am not satisfied with my current care?
Absolutely. Seeking a second opinion is a normal and appropriate part of managing a complex chronic condition like HS. You are entitled to advocate for yourself and find a provider whose approach aligns with your needs and goals.
Related Resources
Treatments Hub
Overview of all HS treatment options
Insurance and Cost Guide
What insurance covers and how to navigate prior auth
Newly Diagnosed Guide
Essential first steps after an HS diagnosis
HS Questions Answered
50 common HS questions with detailed answers
HS Support Groups
Connect with other patients for specialist recommendations
HS Stages Guide
Understand Hurley staging before your appointment