It can be caused by an allergy to your detergent, lotion, or perfume. But it is most commonly due to your breast pressing against the skin just beneath it. This can strike both men and women. And believe it or not, your body mass is not always the contributing factor. Sometimes it's the bra you're wearing. If the bra rubs against your body or if the bra fails to offer adequate support, the end result is boob rash.
How to prevent it
Find the right bra size - If your bra size is a D cup or larger, you should replace your bras every 3 to 6 months. If your bra size is C or smaller you should replace your bra every 8 months to a year. Remember that a proper fit is crucial. Many women get excited when their old bra no longer fits and jump to the next cup. This is not always necessary. Weight gain usually results in a band increase, the number of your bra size. Full busted women may have a small band size, 32 or 34 inches but may have a need for a full cup, DD or FF for example. Getting the wrong cup size will cause boob rash no matter what size you are.
Wear the right style of bra - The best bra for D cups and larger are unlined or non-padded. Whenever possible, wear a breathable stretchy lace or similar fabric. It provides breathable yet sturdy support. Also look for bras that are specifically for full figured women. They provide better support and last longer than 6 months. They also provide more spacing between the cups to prevent moisture that occurs when your breasts are pressed together in regular bra. Regular and full figure bras are the same in size but designed differently for support and comfort.
Powder - I've seen many sites recommend baby powder or simple corn starch under the breasts. But based on the wisdom of women who have managed to avoid and recover from boob rash the only powder that works is Vagisil. They were very specific about which Vagisil powder, it is the fragrance free for sensitive skin version. Considering its intended use, I am not surprised.
Change your detergent - Using "free and clear" detergents should help considerably. But if you are already using it, switch to organic or environmentally friendly detergent. Also, add a cup of vinegar to your wash instead of fabric softener.
How to treat it
Stop the moisture - Deodorant is amazing in prevention and providing an early cure. Degree is the only deodorant that seems to work. Buy a travel size stick, not the gel, and toss it after the moisture and rash are gone. Stay away from gel, spray, and moisturizing deodorant sticks. These will exacerbate the problem.
Go Amazon - Go bra-less at home and in bed until it is cured. Bras tend to irritate the rash.
Hygiene - Think of your boob rash as a yeast infection, because that's what it is. When you get home from work or school immediately take a shower to wash away any build-up. If you don't have time for a shower, cleanse the area with a feminine wash.
Vinegar - There are dozens of treatments online that involve pastes, creams, and things that just don't smell good. there is one simple, quick solution. Vinegar. I prefer white vinegar but you can use apple cider vinegar if that's all you have. Grab a sterile cotton ball and soak it in vinegar. After cleaning and thoroughly drying the area gently rub the area with vinegar. If you have been scratching, IT WILL BURN. Fan the area to cool and dry it before applying the Vagisil powder. Do this once a day. After the first treatment, there will be no more itching or burning. After the second treatment, you should notice a drastic improvement in the color of the skin underneath the breast. Depending on how bad your rash is. It should be cured in 3 treatments. If there is no improvement by the third day, or if there is bleeding or weeping skin, see a doctor. Your rash has gone beyond topical treatments.
Remember that I am not a doctor and i am not giving medical advice. However, I have tested the home remedies and treatments online and narrowed them down to the ones that actually work. My friends have been wonderful guinea pigs. They wouldn't allow photos so here are some from the internet.
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| Early breast rash due to sweat a yeast smell may be present. |
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| Advanced rash, a doctor visit is recommended. |
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| Healing rash |
