The use of Vicks (VapoRub) for Hidradenitis Suppurativa. And what you need to know.
VapoRub may offer relief for HS, with positive results. Please use it safely. I’ll provide more information below.
Many individuals have found both Vicks and generic versions successful in managing the symptoms of HS abscesses and nodules (under the skin) over the years.
The cooling effect could potentially ease some of the burning, itching, and pain.
VapoRub’s menthol could speed up wound healing.
The main ingredients, camphor, menthol, eucalyptus, in VapoRub all have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
And it's cost effective.
How To Use:
- Wash hands.
- Apply a small amount on or around closed abscesses or nodules (under the skin) to help with pain, itching, or to soothe HS areas. If you prefer, you can cover with a dressing or gauze. Note: if you have an open abscess or wound, you can apply a thin layer to the surrounding areas but avoid using it directly on open wounds.
- Wash hands after handling VapoRub.
Apply only to closed abscess (es) and / or nodules (under the skin). Do not use it on open skin.
This tip applies to ALL products. Always look at the label to see what’s in the product, both the active and inactive ingredients. And test a small area first to make sure you don’t react badly to it.
Avoid overusing VapoRub. It’s not meant to be used constantly, every day, all day. You also don’t want 5 to 10 areas at a time, constantly. Practice moderation when using this regiment.
VapoRub contains petroleum type jelly. Using too much of this might irritate your skin and clog your pores. You do not want that!
VapoRub contains camphor, as mentioned earlier. Camphor is an ingredient that can be harmful in excess. It can accumulate in the body and also enter the bloodstream through open wounds, sores, or mucous membranes, so avoid using it in these areas.
Camphor is a common ingredient in drawing salve products. Stay mindful of that.
VapoRub contains menthol. Too much of this can be harmful, causing a range of symptoms.
Some regiments may not be a good fit for everyone. Individuals respond in varying ways to various ingredients or their combinations. While some find VapoRub beneficial, others have had adverse reactions like itchy rashes, burning sensations, and discomfort. If this happens to you, discontinue use.
If you experience any of these symptoms below, discontinue immediately and call or go to the emergency room / A&E.
VapoRub can be useful for HS, but be sure to use it cautiously and in moderation.
Special Note: Researched, compiled, and written by Denise Fixsen. This information is backed by my 46 years of living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, 10 years of dealing with multiple chronic illnesses, 36 years of advocacy, and continuous education. And to ensure accuracy, reliability, and trustworthiness, I incorporate peer-reviewed studies and other high-quality sources into my articles and material. I also wanted to inform you that I’ve chosen to end my collaboration with editors on my articles. Although there may be grammar errors due to brain illnesses (mostly), with this said, my content remains reliable, factual, and solid. With genuine TLC.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is solely for information, education, and support. The purpose is not to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatments. FDA Disclaimer: any materials mentioning treatments, procedures, supplements, etc., have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended for diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing any disease or health condition.
Sources: PMCID: PMC8620938, doi:10.4103/IJPC.IJPC_23_17, www.poison.org/articles/is-vicks-vaporub-safe, Meyler's Side Effects of Drugs. 16th ed. Waltham, MA: Elsevier; 2016:293, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2023.06.010, doi.org/10.1016/j.rmcr.2017.07.003
Article posted on 09-16-2024