7 Unexpected Reasons Why Your Breasts Are Itchy
Do you need to scratch your boobs all the time and wonder where it's coming from? There are a number of (usually harmless) reasons for itchy breasts.
The fact that we itch here and there on certain parts of the body is nothing unusual. However, if the itching is particularly penetrating or repeatedly occurs in the same place, there may be a specific cause that you should investigate. Today we want to explain to you what can be behind itching in the area of the breasts and nipples and when it is time to seek medical help:
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You don't change or wash your bra regularly.
Maybe you have one or two favorite bras that you wear a little more often than you'd like to admit - they're just the most comfortable and fit the best? We know. Nevertheless, you should make sure to wash and change your underwear (also on top) regularly. If you don't, there's a risk of bacteria forming, which can irritate the skin. If you happen to have a small wound and bacteria get into it - for example, by wearing the same bra many times - it can even lead to an infection.
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You have a sunburn
Have you been outside enjoying the sun a lot lately? Possibly the cause of the itching is sunburn. Especially in the chest area, the skin is quite sensitive and can "burn" quickly, often resulting in an uncomfortable itch.
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You have a heat rash
When it's particularly hot, it can happen that we sweat especially heavily - if we wear clothes that aren't exactly breathable, the sweat on the skin can't evaporate and the sweat glands become clogged. This in turn can lead to itching, burning or blistering. In this case, it is best to avoid further heat, and if the rash does not go away on its own, it is better to consult a doctor.
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Your skin is sensitive to soap or detergent.
Especially if fragrances are contained, it happens (especially with very sensitive skin) that our skin reacts to the touch of certain substances. Maybe your new shower gel or the fabric softener you tried the other day is to blame for your itching.
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You could have eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes a dry, itchy inflammation that usually manifests as a scaly rash. While it usually affects areas like the backs of the knees and crooks of the elbows, it can also occur on the breasts. If the itching has been going on for a while and you're not sure why, eczema could be the cause - it's best to consult an expert.
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Your breasts and your bra are not compatible
There are now bras, bralettes, tops and the like in all kinds of designs and made of many different materials. Some are not so well tolerated by our skin, especially synthetic materials. Pay attention to when the itching occurs and which bra you are wearing. It is possible that the material (e.g. polyester) is responsible for your irritation.
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You are pregnant or have recently had a baby
During pregnancy, childbirth & breastfeeding the body changes quite a bit, also the breasts go through a lot during this time. Usually, pregnancy makes them a little bigger, which can cause stretch marks to form. This process leads to itching in some women. Breastfeeding can also cause itchy breasts, as the nipples are often very irritated and dry.