Causes of Itchy Breasts and How to Treat Them

Itchy breasts are a common thing experienced by women. So, itchy breasts are not something to worry about.

However, in rare cases, itchy breasts can also be a symptom of breast cancer. However, several other conditions often cause itchy breasts, such as:

1. Wearing the wrong bra

Itchy breasts can also be caused by a dirty bra. Dr. Gary Goldenberg, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine, explains that dirty clothing, including underwear, often contains bacteria that can irritate the skin.

The same warning applies when wearing a new bra. Dr. Goldberg says that synthetic materials like polyester and latex, which are often used in bras, are also common skin irritants. These materials can cause skin irritation and itching.

2. Wear a bra when exercising

Special bras used for exercise can be very helpful, but on the other hand they will be very tight. Compression combined with sweat is the cause of chafing and itchy rashes.

If you do not immediately wash the bra that is already full of sweat and do not wash it properly, it can cause uncomfortable irritation.

According to San Francisco-based dermatologist Marie Jhin, sweat left on the skin under your breasts can not only attract fungus, but also cause it to grow and develop into an infection.

She suggests washing and drying your breasts immediately after every workout to prevent fungus from growing and always wearing a clean sports bra.

3. Use harsh soaps, detergents, or fragrances

New York-based dermatologist Dr. Shari Lipner says that many people will develop a rash or red, scaly, itchy skin if they come into contact with an irritating soap or detergent in large enough amounts.

So if your clothes are starting to feel uncomfortable on your skin, especially in sensitive areas, it may be time to switch to a detergent, soap, or lotion that contains added fragrances.

4. Mastitis

The next cause of itchy breasts is mastitis. This condition, which is an infection of the breast, is often experienced by pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. However, it is also possible that it can affect women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.

In addition to causing itching in the breasts, this condition is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as redness, breast pain, and fever.

5. Menopause

Menopause is the end of the natural menstrual cycle in women who have entered the age of 40-50 years. This condition is sometimes another cause of itchy breasts.

The reason is, when women have entered the menopause phase, there is a decrease in estrogen hormone levels which causes a decrease in the production of collagen and natural oils in the skin, so that the skin becomes dry and itchy.

How to deal with itchy breasts?

Instead of relieving itching, scratching your breasts can trigger wounds or abrasions on the skin of your breasts. Instead, you can do some simple things or use certain medications to overcome the discomfort caused by itchy breasts. According to Alodokter, the following are:

– Wear a bra or clothing that is not too tight to give your breasts room to breathe.

– Apply a moisturizer or lotion containing ceramide or petroleum jelly, and is free of alcohol, fragrances, and dyes.

– Keep the room temperature cool and prevent sweating that can trigger itching.

– Use essential oils to treat dry skin that triggers itching. Choose essential oils that contain natural ingredients, such as coconut oil, peppermint, lavender, chamomile, and tea tree oil.

– Apply an itch reliever cream or medication containing hydrocortisone to reduce irritation and itching in the breasts.

– Take antihistamines if the itching in the breasts is caused by allergies.

– Take antibiotics if the itching in the breasts is caused by swelling due to infection, such as mastitis. You can take antibiotics that have been prescribed by your doctor.