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Fungal infection under breast photos. Rashes Between Breasts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

What causes rashes between breasts. How to identify different types of breast rashes. When should you see a doctor for a breast rash. What are effective treatments for rashes under breasts.

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Common Causes of Rashes Between Breasts

Rashes between breasts can occur due to various factors, ranging from benign skin conditions to more serious health issues. Understanding the root cause is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Here are some of the most common causes:

Heat Rash

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is a frequent culprit behind rashes between breasts. It occurs when sweat glands become blocked, trapping perspiration under the skin. The warm, moist environment between breasts creates an ideal setting for heat rash to develop.

  • Symptoms: Small, red bumps or blisters
  • Sensation: Itchy or prickly feeling
  • Occurrence: More common in hot, humid weather

Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a skin inflammation caused by friction between two skin surfaces. The area between breasts is particularly susceptible due to constant skin-to-skin contact and moisture accumulation.

  • Appearance: Red, inflamed patches
  • Additional symptoms: May develop an odor due to bacterial or fungal growth
  • Risk factors: More common in women with larger breasts or those who exercise frequently

Fungal Infections

The warm, moist environment between breasts provides an ideal breeding ground for fungal infections, such as candidiasis (yeast infection).

  • Symptoms: Red, itchy rash with possible scaling or small blisters
  • Sensation: Burning or stinging
  • Risk factors: Increased risk in individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems

Identifying Serious Breast Rashes: When to Be Concerned

While most breast rashes are benign, some can indicate more serious conditions. It’s important to be aware of the signs that may warrant immediate medical attention.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer that can present with symptoms similar to a rash.

  • Appearance: Red, swollen breast with a rash covering a large area
  • Additional symptoms: Breast warmth, thickened skin texture (like orange peel), inverted nipple
  • Time frame: Symptoms typically develop rapidly, over weeks or months

Paget’s Disease of the Breast

Paget’s disease is a rare form of breast cancer affecting the nipple and surrounding area.

  • Appearance: Scaly, red, itchy rash on the nipple and areola
  • Additional symptoms: Nipple discharge, flattening or inversion of the nipple
  • Important note: Can resemble eczema or dermatitis, making early diagnosis challenging

Diagnosing Breast Rashes: What to Expect at the Doctor’s Office

If you’re concerned about a rash between your breasts, a visit to your healthcare provider can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Here’s what you can expect during the diagnostic process:

  1. Medical history: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, duration, and any factors that worsen or improve the rash.
  2. Physical examination: A thorough inspection of the affected area will be conducted.
  3. Skin scrapings or swabs: These may be taken to check for fungal or bacterial infections.
  4. Allergy tests: If an allergic reaction is suspected, patch testing might be recommended.
  5. Biopsy: In rare cases, a small skin sample may be taken to rule out more serious conditions.

Treatment Options for Breast Rashes

The treatment for a rash between breasts depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Over-the-Counter Remedies

  • Antifungal creams: For yeast infections
  • Hydrocortisone cream: To reduce inflammation and itching
  • Antihistamines: To relieve itching from allergic reactions

Prescription Medications

  • Stronger antifungal or antibacterial medications
  • Prescription-strength corticosteroids for severe inflammation

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

  • Keeping the area clean and dry
  • Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
  • Applying cool compresses to soothe irritation
  • Using cornstarch or talc-free powder to absorb moisture

Preventing Rashes Between Breasts: Tips and Strategies

Prevention is often the best approach when it comes to managing rashes between breasts. Here are some effective strategies to reduce your risk:

  • Maintain good hygiene: Shower regularly, especially after sweating, and thoroughly dry the area between and under breasts.
  • Choose appropriate clothing: Opt for breathable fabrics and well-fitting bras that don’t trap moisture.
  • Use moisture-absorbing powders: Apply talc-free powders to keep the area dry.
  • Stay cool: Avoid excessive heat and humidity when possible.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase skin-to-skin contact and moisture buildup.

Breast Rashes and Pregnancy: What Expectant Mothers Should Know

Pregnancy can bring about various skin changes, including an increased likelihood of developing rashes between breasts. Here’s what expectant mothers should be aware of:

Common Pregnancy-Related Breast Changes

  • Increased breast size and sensitivity
  • Heightened sweating due to hormonal changes
  • Stretching of skin, which may lead to itching

Managing Breast Rashes During Pregnancy

While many treatments are safe during pregnancy, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before using any medications or topical treatments. Some safe approaches include:

  • Wearing a supportive, cotton maternity bra
  • Applying cool compresses to soothe irritation
  • Using pregnancy-safe moisturizers to relieve itching
  • Staying hydrated and maintaining good hygiene

Breast Rashes and Underlying Health Conditions: Diabetes and More

Certain health conditions can increase the likelihood of developing rashes between breasts or complicate their treatment. Understanding these connections can help in managing both the underlying condition and the skin issues.

Diabetes and Breast Rashes

Individuals with diabetes are more prone to skin infections, including those that can occur between breasts. This increased susceptibility is due to:

  • Higher blood sugar levels, which can promote fungal growth
  • Compromised immune function, making it harder to fight off infections
  • Reduced circulation, which can impair skin healing

If you have diabetes and experience recurrent breast rashes, it’s important to:

  • Maintain good blood sugar control
  • Pay extra attention to skin hygiene
  • Monitor for signs of infection and seek prompt treatment

Other Health Conditions and Breast Rashes

Several other health conditions can contribute to or exacerbate breast rashes:

  • Obesity: Excess weight can create more skin folds and increase friction
  • Autoimmune disorders: Conditions like psoriasis can affect the breast area
  • Hormonal imbalances: Can lead to increased sweating and skin changes

Managing these underlying conditions effectively can help reduce the frequency and severity of breast rashes.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Breast Rash

While many breast rashes can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • A rash that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments after a week
  • Signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or increasing pain
  • Rapid changes in breast appearance or texture
  • Nipple discharge or inversion
  • A rash accompanied by breast lumps or swelling

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment, especially in cases where the rash might be a symptom of a more serious condition.

Impact of Breast Rashes on Quality of Life

Breast rashes, while often benign, can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Understanding these effects can help in addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of dealing with breast rashes.

Physical Discomfort

Breast rashes can cause various physical discomforts, including:

  • Persistent itching or burning sensations
  • Pain or tenderness in the affected area
  • Difficulty wearing certain types of clothing or bras
  • Disrupted sleep due to nighttime itching or discomfort

Emotional and Psychological Impact

The presence of a breast rash can also have emotional and psychological effects:

  • Anxiety about the cause of the rash, especially if it’s persistent
  • Self-consciousness or embarrassment about the appearance of the rash
  • Stress related to managing symptoms and treatments
  • Impact on intimate relationships due to discomfort or self-image issues

Coping Strategies

To better manage the impact of breast rashes on quality of life, consider the following strategies:

  • Seek support from healthcare providers or support groups
  • Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
  • Educate yourself about the condition to alleviate fears and uncertainties
  • Communicate openly with partners about any discomfort or concerns

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of breast rashes, individuals can maintain a better quality of life while managing their symptoms.

Future Developments in Breast Rash Treatment and Prevention

As medical research continues to advance, new developments in the treatment and prevention of breast rashes are on the horizon. These innovations promise to improve both the management of existing conditions and the prevention of future occurrences.

Emerging Treatment Options

Several promising areas of research are focusing on novel treatments for breast rashes:

  • Advanced topical formulations with improved penetration and efficacy
  • Probiotic-based treatments to promote healthy skin flora
  • Nanotechnology-enhanced medications for targeted delivery
  • Immunomodulatory therapies for chronic inflammatory conditions

Innovative Prevention Strategies

Preventive measures are also evolving, with new approaches being developed:

  • Smart fabrics that regulate moisture and temperature
  • Personalized skincare regimens based on individual microbiome profiles
  • Advanced diagnostic tools for early detection of potential issues
  • Wearable devices that monitor skin health and environmental factors

The Role of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly important role in dermatology, including the management of breast rashes:

  • AI-powered image analysis for faster and more accurate diagnoses
  • Predictive algorithms to identify individuals at higher risk for certain conditions
  • Personalized treatment recommendations based on vast datasets

As these technologies continue to develop, they promise to revolutionize the way we approach breast rashes, offering more effective, personalized, and proactive solutions for prevention and treatment.

Pictures, Cancer, Diabetes, and Pregnancy

Rashes Between Breasts: Pictures, Cancer, Diabetes, and Pregnancy

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA — Updated on February 13, 2023

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From infections to excess heat, there are many reasons why you may experience a rash between your breasts. It’s often not serious and can be treated easily, but some rash types can indicate a more serious condition.

Irritated, red, and itchy skin from a rash is a nuisance anywhere on the body. However, for women, rashes between the breasts can be especially so.

Read on to find out more information about the most common causes, their treatments, and tips for prevention.

Most causes of rashes between the breasts are the result of friction and heat. There are also some causes that are directly related to breastfeeding. Here’s a look at some of the most common culprits:

Heat rash

Heat rash or prickly heat is a common cause of rashes between the breasts. While many people associate this condition with children, adults can experience a heat rash too. True to its name, a heat rash occurs when temperatures are warm and humid.

Heat rashes crop up when excess sweat, produced by the sweat glands, is blocked from reaching the surface of the skin where it evaporates. The areas underneath and between the breasts are especially vulnerable because the skin rubs against each other and this friction increases the likelihood of a heat rash.

Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a skin condition that occurs when two skin surfaces rub against each other. The result can be a red, irritated, and inflamed skin rash that sometimes has a smell. Friction, such as the breasts rubbing together, can cause intertrigo.

Because sweat tends to collect in areas like this, the moisture can attract fungus and bacteria. Women are more likely to experience this condition in the summertime, especially if they have larger breasts. The condition may also affect women who exercise a great deal.

Inflammatory breast cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer is a breast cancer type where cells grow rapidly. The symptoms can develop and worsen over the course of three to six months. In addition to causing a red rash that affects most of the breast, inflammatory breast cancer symptoms also include:

  • breast swelling
  • itchy breasts
  • inverted nipple
  • painful breasts
  • tender breasts
  • thickened skin of the breast

Often, symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer may initially resemble those of mastitis or a breast infection. If a doctor prescribes you antibiotics and the symptoms don’t get better, see your doctor in a week to 10 days.

Paget’s disease

Paget’s disease is a rare form of breast cancer that affects the nipple and areola (the dark skin around the nipple). The condition may closely resemble eczema or contact dermatitis (skin irritation). Other symptoms may include:

  • thickened skin around the nipple
  • flattened nipple
  • bloody or yellow discharge from the nipple

Systemic rashes

Sometimes conditions that affect the entire body can also cause rashes between the breasts. Examples of these conditions can include shingles, eczema, and psoriasis, among others. These conditions will not only affect the area between the breasts, they’ll also impact other parts of the body, such as the extremities or abdomen.

Mastitis

Mastitis is a condition where the breast tissue becomes infected. This is very common in women who are breastfeeding, and it often only occurs in one breast. However, a woman doesn’t have to be breastfeeding to have mastitis. Symptoms associated with mastitis include:

  • breast swelling
  • breast that is warm to the touch
  • breast pain
  • fever that is 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
  • skin redness

The condition can happen to breastfeeding moms when a milk duct becomes clogged or bacteria enters the breast from a crack in a mom’s nipple.

Breast abscess

A breast abscess or subareolar breast abscess is a condition that can occur if mastitis remains untreated. The abscess is an area of infected fluid known as pus. The abscess will appear like a lump that is red, painful, and tender to the touch. While this rash and irritation usually occurs in breastfeeding women, it can also occur in women who aren’t breastfeeding. Sometimes, a doctor will have to drain the abscess and prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

Diabetes

Having diabetes can increase your risk for certain skin infections and dry skin. For example, those with diabetes are at increased risk for fungal infections due to Candida albicans. The more uncontrolled your blood sugar is, the more likely you are to experience this infection type. This fungus commonly grows under the breasts and can cause an itchy, red rash in addition to blistering and scaling.

Pregnancy

Circulating hormones and weight gain can make you more prone to rashes between the breasts during pregnancy. In addition to rashes from heat or sweating, you may also experience some rashes that are unique to pregnancy. These can include a condition called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy or PUPPP.

This condition causes small red bumps or hives to form on the body. Although they usually start on the stomach, the bumps can spread to the breasts.

Another pregnancy-related rash that can affect the breasts is prurigo of pregnancy. This is a condition that cause small bumps to appear that look like insect bites. Prurigo is an immune system-related reaction that may last for several months after a woman has given birth.

Keeping the skin clean, cool, and dry can help treat most causes of rashes between the breasts. Examples of steps to take include:

  • Gently clean the affected area with antibacterial soap and warm water. Pat dry the area when done.
  • Apply fragrance-free moisturizer, antibiotic ointment, or an antifungal cream as recommended by your physician.
  • Refrain from scratching the skin.
  • Avoid using highly fragranced soaps, lotions, or perfumes around the breasts.
  • Wear soft, comfortable clothing made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton.
  • Consider placing a special soft fabric with antimicrobial materials, such as InterDry between the breasts to reduce itching and friction.
  • Change out of sweaty clothing as quickly as possible after exercising or being outdoors in the heat.

If you suspect your breast symptoms are due to an infection, see your physician. You may need topical or oral antibiotics for the rash to go away.

Most cases of rashes between the breasts will go away with over-the-counter treatments and are not cause for concern. However, if you have symptoms that could indicate an infection or potential breast cancer, see your physician as soon as possible.

Last medically reviewed on May 2, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Breast rash. (2018).
    mayoclinic.org/symptoms/breast-rash/basics/definition/sym-20050817
  • Kalra MG, et al. (2014). Intertrigo and secondary skin infections.
    aafp.org/afp/2014/0401/p569.html
  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2016). Inflammatory breast cancer.
    cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/types-of-breast-cancer/inflammatory-breast-cancer.html
  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Mastitis.
    mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mastitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20374829
  • Paget disease of the breast. (2012).
    cancer.gov/types/breast/paget-breast-fact-sheet
  • Skin complications. (2014).
    diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/skin-complications.html
  • Skin conditions during pregnancy. (2014).
    acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Skin-Conditions-During-Pregnancy

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb 13, 2023

Written By

Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA

Edited By

Alina Sharon

May 2, 2018

Medically Reviewed By

Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA — Updated on February 13, 2023

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11 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Rashes Under The Breast

If you are here wondering how to get rid of rashes under the breast, we got you covered. Rashes might flare up any time and are triggered mostly due to seasonal allergies, excess humidity, and tight-fitting clothing. We have listed a few natural remedies that can provide you some initial relief from the itch and irritation to save you from the embarrassment and deal with them. Read on further to know more.

In This Article

Causes And Symptoms Of Rashes Under The Breast

If you notice irritation or redness of the skin under your breasts, you have most probably developed a breast rash. Several factors can cause rashes under your breasts. While one of the most common causes is a heat rash, other triggers can be classified into four categories. They are:

  • Infections

The skin folds under your breasts as well as other body parts are the ideal breeding ground for yeast, fungal, and bacterial infection. Candidiasis, which is caused by a type of yeast called Candida, and ringworm, which is a fungal infection caused by a fungus called dermatophytes, can both result in rashes under the breasts.

Itchy blisters, cracks, and red, round patches of skin that look like a ring are some of the common signs associated with such infections.

Related: 11 Best Home Remedies For Yeast Infection That Actually Work

  • Allergies

If you have developed red or skin-colored bumps under your breasts that itch a lot, it could be hives. Hives are formed as a result of an allergic response of your body to certain foods, medications, pollen, plants, and insect bites. Hives will usually blanch and turn white when pressed.

  • Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune conditions like eczema, inverse psoriasis, hyperhidrosis, and Hailey-Hailey disease can also cause rashes to form on different parts of your body, including the folds under your breasts.

Eczema is characterized by small, fluid-filled blisters that eventually ooze and crust over. The symptoms of inverse psoriasis include smoothened, red patches of skin in the affected area.

Hyperhidrosis causes frequent sweating that leads to the formation of rashes. Hailey-Hailey disease triggers blistering rashes in the affected body parts.

Related: Eczema Scars: 10 Effective Ways To Improve Their Appearance

  • Cancer

Another cause of rashes under your breasts could be inflammatory breast cancer, which is a rare but rapidly spreading type of cancer. Its symptoms may include:

  • Pink or red discoloration of the skin
  • Pitted skin that may resemble an orange peel
  • A pimple-like rash
  • An inverted nipple that points inward rather than outward

The causes of rashes under the breast may vary in their gravity. While such rashes are hardly a cause of concern most of the time, they may also be a result of life-threatening diseases like cancer.

If your symptoms are similar to that of any serious medical conditions, it is best to avail medical intervention immediately to rule out any complications.

How Is A Rash Under The Breast Treated?

The cause of the rash under your breasts will determine how you treat it.

  • Common Rashes On The Skin

Avoiding skin irritants is one of the best ways to prevent common rashes. This can include avoiding certain soaps or cosmetics that you are allergic or sensitive to avoid chafing, as this may cause soreness under the breast. You may also want to identify and avoid wearing bras or tops made of specific fabrics. The doctor might prescribe medication or a topical cream to reduce the rash. In most situations, the rash is resolved or controlled without posing a significant risk to your general health.

Dermatitis or eczema is pretty common in breastfeeding women. Other common rashes in breastfeeding women also include folliculitis, abscess and sebaceous cyst. Speaking with a doctor or lactation consultant is advised in these situations because breastfeeding individuals may require different treatment. Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, a double-board-certified dermatologist, says, “The remaining moisture on the breast, which can irritate the skin and result in dermatitis, is a typical cause of nursing rashes.” You can use breast pads to prevent these rashes. She adds, “Breast pads prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin and absorb any excess milk that may remain after feeding.”

  • Inflammatory Breast Cancer

The diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer is given after careful examination and tissue biopsyXA medical procedure in which a surgeon collects a sample of cells or tissues from the body to examine the presence of a disease. . This stage is quite advanced and needs to be treated right away. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapyXA type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to inhibit the growth of malignant cells by preventing them from dividing further. radiation, and hormone therapyXA type of cancer treatment that slows or prevents cancer that relies on hormones to spread or grow, such as prostate and breast cancer. radiation are all possible forms of treatment, usually starting with chemotherapy radiation (1).

If the rash under your breasts is due to microbial infections or allergies, here are some home remedies that may help you treat it.

11 Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Rashes Under The Breast

1. Baking Soda

Image: Shutterstock

The alkalinity of baking soda increases the pH of your skin and helps relieve itchiness associated with rashes under your breasts. It can also help in the removal of scales from the skin if any (2).

You Will Need
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • A few drops of water
What You Have To Do
  1. Add a few drops of water to a teaspoon of baking soda.
  2. Mix well and apply the mixture to the affected areas.
  3. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Rinse it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this once daily.

2. Coconut Oil

Image: Shutterstock

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of coconut oil can help in getting rid of rashes under the breasts (3). The antimicrobial potential of coconut oil against Candida can be used to treat yeast infections that could be causing the rashes (4).

You Will Need
  • 1-2 teaspoons of virgin coconut oil
What You Have To Do
  1. Rub virgin coconut oil in your palms and apply it over the affected area.
  2. Leave it on until it dries.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this 1-2 times daily.

Related: Virgin Coconut Oil: Benefits, Uses, And Side Effects

3. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Image: Shutterstock

Tea tree oil exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties (5). These properties can help in getting rid of rashes under the breast by eliminating the infection-causing microbes and reducing swelling and itching.

You Will Need
  • 2-3 drops of tea tree oil
  • 2-3 teaspoons of any carrier oil (coconut or olive oil)
What You Have To Do
  1. Add two to three drops of tea tree oil to two to three teaspoons of any carrier oil.
  2. Mix well and apply to the affected area.
  3. Leave it on overnight.
  4. Rinse it off the next morning.
How Often You Should Do This

You can do this once daily.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Image: Shutterstock

Apple cider vinegar exhibits antimicrobial properties that work effectively against multiple microbes, including Candida. Hence, this remedy may be useful if the rashes under your breasts are the result of a yeast infection (6).

You Will Need
  • 1-2 tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup of water
  • Cotton balls
What You Have To Do
  1. Add one to two tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar to half a cup of water.
  2. Mix well and soak a cotton ball in it.
  3. Apply the mixture to the affected area and allow it to dry.
  4. Rinse it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

You can do this multiple times daily.

5. Cold Compress

Image: Shutterstock

A cold compress numbs the affected area, thereby helping in reducing the itchiness that often occurs in the case of rashes under the breast (7).

You Will Need
  • A cold compress
What You Have To Do
  1. Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
  2. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes and remove it.
  3. Repeat twice.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this multiple times daily.

6. Garlic

Image: Shutterstock

Garlic offers multiple benefits for your skin. It has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help in treating skin infections that cause rashes under the breasts (8), (9).

You Will Need
  • 1-2 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
What You Have To Do
  1. Mince the garlic cloves.
  2. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the minced garlic and heat it slightly.
  3. Strain the garlic cloves out.
  4. Apply the oil to the affected area.
  5. Leave it on overnight.
  6. Rinse it off the next morning.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this once daily.

Quick Tip

You can also rub garlic cloves or garlic oil on the affected areas. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash it off with warm water and pat dry.

Related: 31 Benefits Of Garlic For Health, Skin, & Hair + How To Use It

7. Aloe Vera

Image: Shutterstock

The anti-inflammatory activity of aloe vera extracts can be used in soothing the itchiness and inflammation associated with rashes under the breast (10).

You Will Need
  • Freshly extracted aloe vera gel
What You Have To Do
  1. Extract the gel from an aloe leaf.
  2. Whisk the gel using a fork and apply it to the affected area.
  3. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and then rinse it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this 1-2 times daily.

8. Neem

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Neem exhibits many therapeutic benefits, including its ability to reduce inflammation and fight infections (11). These properties can also help reduce breast rashes and prevent their recurrence.

You Will Need
  • A handful of neem leaves
  • Water (as required)
What You Have To Do
  1. Wash the neem leaves thoroughly.
  2. Grind the leaves with a little water to form a thick paste.
  3. Apply the neem paste to the affected skin and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Rinse it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this once daily.

9. Oatmeal

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Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may be used in the treatment of rashes under the breasts (12).

You Will Need
  • 1 cup of ground oats
  • Water
What You Have To Do
  1. Fill your bath with water.
  2. Add a cup of ground oats to it and mix well.
  3. Soak in the oatmeal bath for 20-30 minutes.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this once daily.

10. Witch Hazel

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The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of witch hazel can help in the treatment of rashes under the breasts and alleviate itching and inflammation (13).

You Will Need
  • Witch hazel (as required)
  • Cotton balls
What You Have To Do
  1. Take some witch hazel on a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area.
  2. Allow it to dry on its own.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this 1-2 times daily.

11. Turmeric

Image: Shutterstock

The major component of turmeric is curcumin. This compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in treating the rashes under the breasts (14).

You Will Need
  • 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric powder
  • Water (as required)
What You Have To Do
  1.  Mix 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric powder with a few drops of water.
  2. Mix well to form a thick paste.
  3. Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Rinse it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

You may do this once daily or every alternate day.

While you allow these remedies to work on those stubborn rashes under your breasts, here are some beneficial tips that can prevent the rashes from recurring.

How To Prevent Rashes Under The Breast

  • Clean the affected area with antibacterial soap and water daily.
  • Use only fragrance-free moisturizers.
  • Avoid scratching the affected area.
  • Wear soft clothing that does not irritate your skin.
  • Change out of sweaty clothing right away.
  • Limit wearing your bra as much as possible until the rash begins clearing.
  • Wear bra liners to absorb excess sweat.
  • Apply Calamine lotion on the affected area.

Quick Tip

You can apply baby or talcum powder under your breasts during hot months to keep the sweating to a minimum.

If the rash does not disappear after using OTC medications and home remedies, you should consult a doctor to determine the root cause of the rash.

When Should You See A Doctor?

If you have a skin rash along with any of the following symptoms, consult a doctor right away:

  • The rash is rapidly spreading all over your body.
  • Your skin is thick, warm, and red.
  • You are exhausted, shivering, nauseous, or vomiting
  • You have a fever.
  • You have discolored, bleeding, peeling, or blistered skin.
  • There are uneven, multicolored, dark dots.
  • The patches or rash morph in size and shape.

Remember that self-diagnosis of a breast rash can be challenging. In some situations, a delay in treatment may mean the difference between a favorable outcome and a more severe health problem.

The Final Takeaway

Rash under breasts may be completely benign or signify serious complications and medical conditions. However, it is caused due to seasonal allergies, infections, excess humidity, or tight-fitting clothing in most cases. To get rid of the discomfort and itching sensation, you can apply home remedies made from common ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, tea tree essential oil, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, and neem leaves, among others. If the rash persists, looks infected, or recurs frequently, get in touch with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis and line of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a yeast infection under the breast smell?

Yes, if left untreated, yeast infections under the breasts can give off a foul odor.

Can I use deodorant under my breasts?

Yes, you can use a deodorant or antiperspirantXAn astringent solution that contains zirconium or aluminum used to reduce sweating and avoid body odor. under your breasts. However, this is not recommended if you are breastfeeding.

How long should a breast rash last?

A breast rash should ideally disappear in a few days or weeks. However, if it doesn’t, it is best to see a doctor immediately.

How do I stop sweating between my breasts?

You can stop excessive sweating between your breasts by using any deodorizing talc and wearing soft and breathable clothing. Sweat or moisture-wicking bras are also available to tackle this problem.

Will going braless affect your breast health?

There is no scientific proof that suggests that going braless will affect your breast health in any way. It may, however, cause your breasts to sag in the long run.

What doctor to visit for rashes under the breasts?

You can visit a dermatologist for rashes under the breasts. Depending on your symptoms, your dermatologist may either prescribe the required treatment or refer you to another specialist.

What causes clogged pores under breasts?

Just the way the pores on your face can get clogged with oil, debris, bacteria, sweat, or dead skin cells, so can the pores on your breasts. Some people are more prone to clogged pores and breast acne breakouts due to several factors. These include:
• Stress
• Diet
• Hormonal changes
• Genetics
• Certain medications
• Poor hygiene
• Tight-fitting clothes
• Certain creams or lotions

Can cornstarch be used to treat rashes under the breasts?

While no studies support the idea that cornstarch can be used to treat rashes under the breasts, it is claimed that it is especially effective in reducing the burning and itching associated with a heat or sweat rash.
Start by cleansing the affected area with a gentle soap and water if you wish to try out this treatment for your breast rash. Then, wipe away any remaining moisture with a soft towel. Finally, apply cornstarch to the affected area when the skin has completely dried.

What does a breast yeast rash look like?

Yeast infection under the breast looks like a raised, shiny bright red rash under the warm moist folds of the skin. It also may have blisters or crusting.

Can sweat cause a rash under the breasts?

Yes. Also called heat rashes, these occur when excess sweat is produced by sweat glands, which, then, gets blocked from reaching up to the skin surface. This is common during hot and humid weather.

Can a dirty bra cause a rash under the breast?

A sweaty bra, if worn for long (especially after a workout), can cause rashes under the skin as the build-up of sweat and oil may cause fungal infections.

Key Takeaways

  • Rashes under your breasts may happen due to seasonal allergies and excessive sweating.
  • Treating these rashes includes home remedies like baking soda, coconut oil, aloe vera, and neem leaves.
  • Keep your skin clean and dry and fragrance-free skincare products.
  • To prevent rashes from recurring, try to wear soft clothing and absorb excess sweat with bra liners.