8 years living with a Pilonidal ZERO surgery . I simply cover mine with maximum strength desitin diaper rash cream. Which is 40% zinc oxide. Try it you too will be amazed it helps prevent bacteria and junk from infecting your pilonidal . also shaving and washing with anti bacterial soap. I simply did this after 5 emergency room visits and managed to walk out of surgery and refuse treatment and I know I am much better now. Also I have severe incontinence and must wear adult diapers 90% of my life . surgery complications mixed with diapers and a oilonidal cyst sounded terrible. I played doctor and got my life back.