Hi I have had this since age 11, and finally seeing small signs of improvement after probably the worst bout of it in my life.

I had started losing weight (not a conscious effort it just kind of started happening) after moving back with family, fixed my irregular sleep cycles, went to a mood/stress management course (this was a big game changer), and do my best to eat as well as possible. I tried quitting smoking for 5 months but honestly the stress from quitting exasperated the HS and my mental health to no end!

After I did all this they were still happening but definitely not as bad so I decided to turn my efforts towards covering the scars or fading them. I have been using a gradual tan moisturizer and an unexpected benefit from using it (somewhat generously) on my legs everyday has been not only to diminish the look of the scars but make my once rough skin, covered in ingrown hairs, smooth again. Something I thought would never ever happen again. Another benefit is that it helps to fade active marks before they can become that deep purple colour and not be as pronounced (adding to the fact they are being covered by the tanning element it really helps out). Note; I only use it on my legs as they have been scarred very badly. 

Perhaps people could try with hypoallergenic moisturizers and cut out the tanning business? I am only trying it so I can get on the beach this summer.

I also tried argan/cocoa oil (vitamin E) but it was not very effective, I will still use it on my under arms as it is great for masking smell, help with ingrown hairs, and eventually will help fade the marks but its extremely slow going.

I hope one of these things I've done to diminish my symptoms can help you. We're all different so try adapt things to suit your life (as I said, quitting smoking was disastrous for me but it may benefit you). And don't worry I definitely did not do them all at once and the products I bought were under $10. Pick one thing to work on and do that, if it's food, stick to it. If it's sleep cycles, stick to it (unless you're partying :P). If it's your mind, be kinder to yourself. 

All the best!