A rash under the breasts is a very common problem. It is mostly a form of irritant dermatitis and is called intertrigo characterized by inflammation of skin folds.
The most common causes of breast rashes are excessive
sweating, heat, lack of air circulation, and wearing an ill-fitting
bra that rubs against the breasts. Thus, factors like hot, humid climate
and obesity contribute to this problem.
The condition may also be accompanied by yeast or
other types of fungal infections as the warm, moist environment
harbors the growth of germs.
Sometimes it can even be due to some kind of
allergic reaction or an infection of the breast tissue due to breast-feeding.
It can cause red patches, a burning sensation, itchiness, dryness and great
discomfort.
You can try some simple natural remedies to get
relief from this problem. Also, consult your doctor, especially if there are
signs of infection.
Here are the top 10 ways to get rid of a rash under
your breasts.
1. Cold Compress
A cold compress can relieve many of the
symptoms like itching and burning sensation caused by rashes under the
breasts.
- Wrap some ice in a thin cotton towel and put it over the affected area for five to 10 minutes. Take a break and then repeat.
- Another option is to apply a skim-milk and cold-water compress using equal parts of both the ingredients to relieve itching and reduce swelling.
- Also, try bathing with cold water. It will help close the skin pores, thus reducing sweating and the appearance of the rash.
2. Cotton
The best way to deal with a breast rash is to reduce
the accumulation of sweat around the breast area.
- Place a thin piece of cotton between the lower part of your breasts and the skin underneath to absorb moisture and create a barrier. You can also use soft paper towels or dinner napkins.
- Also, wear lightweight clothing, preferably made of cotton or natural fibers that help absorb moisture and keep your body sweat free.
3. Vinegar
At times, the chemical residue present on your
clothes can cause a breast rash. Vinegar can help solve this problem.
- Mix one-half cup of white vinegar in half a bucket of hot water. Use it to wash all your bras and dry them in direct sunlight.
- Another option is to apply apple cider vinegar on the irritated skin. Wash the infected area with mild soapy water, rinse with cold water and pat dry. Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water and apply it to the affected area. Do this two or three times daily. If it causes discomfort, stop using it.
4. Cornstarch
Cornstarch is highly effective for alleviating the
itching and burning sensations associated with a breast rash. It helps keep the
skin dry. In case of a fungal rash though, simply use talc as fungi feed on
cornstarch.
- Clean the affected skin with soap and water, and then pat dry with a towel.
- When the area is completely dry, lightly dust cornstarch over it.
- Do this at least twice daily until you completely get rid of the problem.
Note: Do not apply cornstarch on moist or wet
skin as it will increase the risk of fungal infection.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has a soothing and healing effect on
skin that helps provide relief from rashes. Plus, due to its greasy nature, it
will help reduce friction that causes rashes under breasts and also avoid
infections, thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Simply apply some extra-virgin coconut oil on the
affected area and allow it to absorb completely into the skin. Do this two or
three times daily until the rash is gone.
6. Calamine Lotion
Calamine lotion can be used on a breast rash to
provide soothing relief from itching and speed up the healing
process. It will also helps keep the area dry and thus reduce the chance of
infection.
- Clean the affected skin with a mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry the area with a towel.
- Use a cotton ball to gently apply the calamine lotion.
- Repeat several times a day.
7. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal properties and hence it
can be used topically to treat a breast rash. It will also prevent the growth
of fungus and infection.
- Mix six drops of pure tea tree oil in four tablespoons of olive oil.
- Dip a cotton ball in this oil and apply it on the rash.
- Massage the area gently so that the oil penetrates deep into the skin.
- Do this right after taking a shower and again before going to bed. Usually you can notice positive results within a few days.
Note: Using tea tree oil straight on your skin
without diluting may cause skin irritation.
8. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera helps soothe the itching and burning
sensation caused by rashes under breasts. It also helps heal the skin
and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. You can also combine it
with turmeric as it has antiseptic properties.
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf and apply it on the affected area. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes. You need not wash it off.
- You can also use aloe vera gel mixed with a little turmeric powder. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes before washing it off.
Use aloe vera a few times daily on your skin until
the rashes heal completely.
9. Garlic
A rash under the breast area can be easily treated
with the antiseptic and antifungal properties present in garlic.
- Soak a few garlic cloves in one-half cup of olive oil overnight. The next day, apply this oil on the affected area and leave it on for a few hours before washing it off. Use this remedy three or four times a day to get rid of the problem. Instead of this oil, you can also use crushed or pureed garlic cloves.
- Also, increase your intake of garlic in raw or cooked form to speed up the healing process.
10. Lemon
Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which is a powerful
antioxidant and helps prevent the growth of fungal infections and speed up the
healing process.
- Dilute one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice with three tablespoons of water. Apply it on the affected skin and allow it to air dry.
- You can use a mixture of two tablespoons of lemon juice and a little raw honey on the rashes. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse it off.
Repeat either of these remedies twice daily for
a few days.
Additional Tips
- As this problem is common in those who are overweight or obese, it is suggested to lose excess weight.
- To reduce friction that causes the rashes under breasts, apply greasy topical ointments.
- Wear clean, dry bras made of breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid improperly fitting bras and bras made from synthetic fabric.
- Wear light clothing, minimize moisture, remain in a cool environment, and avoid irritants.
- Launder your undergarments carefully.
- Check if you are allergic to the cosmetic and hygiene products that you are using.
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