A rash under the breasts is an irritation and redness that typically occurs in the area under the breasts. It can be caused by a bra that doesn't fit properly or excessive sweat under the breasts. The rash may present in the form of scaly skin, blisters, or red, itchy patches. Thankfully, there are many things you can do to soothe the discomfort and get rid of the rash.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Treating the Rash at Home
Step 1. Apply a cold pack to the affected area
If you notice a rash under the breasts, try this remedy. Cold can help reduce inflammation and soothe symptoms.
- You can simply wrap the ice in a cotton towel or plastic bag. You can also choose to buy a ready-made ice pack from better-stocked supermarkets. However, keep in mind that commercial ones don't have to be placed directly on the skin. Again, they must be wrapped in a cloth before use.
- Keep the ice in place for 10 minutes at a time. Then pause and repeat if symptoms persist.
Step 2. Take a hot bath or shower
This remedy can help with any type of rash, including under the breasts. You can also run hot water on a washcloth and place it directly on your skin for a few minutes.
Step 3. Use tee trea oil
For some people, this oil provides relief from the rash. Remember, however, that it should never be applied neat directly to the skin, as it could aggravate the problem. Always make sure you dilute it with olive oil before using it.
- Mix 4 tablespoons of olive oil with 6 drops of tea tree oil. Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and gently dab it on the painful area.
- Massage the area lightly for a few minutes to allow the oil to soak into the skin. For best results, follow this procedure after a bath or shower and repeat it before bedtime.
- As with all home remedies, this too is not effective for all people; some may be sensitive to this oil. If you find that your symptoms get worse after applying it, stop using it immediately.
Step 4. Try basil
Some people claim that this herb is effective in relieving skin discomfort. Crush fresh leaves into a paste-like mixture, gently spread it over the entire area affected by the rash, and leave it in place until it dries. At the end, rinse the skin with warm water and pat it dry. Repeat the process once a day and see the results. As mentioned, keep in mind that not all home remedies work for all people. If you notice that the rash gets worse, do not repeat this treatment. Also, avoid using basil leaves if you know you are allergic to them.
Step 5. Apply calamine lotion, aloe vera, or a fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe irritation
Some lotions and moisturizers can help relieve the rash. Try to use a fragrance-free or perfume-free moisturizer, an aloe vera-based product, or a calamine-based lotion.
- You can purchase a suitable moisturizer for your situation at a drugstore or supermarket. Make sure it's fragrance-free, because the oils and fragrances that are used can sometimes aggravate irritation. Apply the lotion to inflamed skin as needed, following the specific instructions on the package.
- Aloe vera is sold in gel form and you can find it in most supermarkets and pharmacies. It can provide relief to the rash and irritated skin of many people; it has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help treat the rash. Apply the product directly to the affected skin. There is no need to rinse it off, but after applying it you should wait 20 minutes before getting dressed. Repeat as needed.
- Calamine lotion can prevent itching and irritation, especially if you are concerned that the rash was caused by some particular substance, such as that released by oak or poison ivy. Apply it twice a day using a cotton ball.
Method 2 of 3: Seeking Medical Treatment
Step 1. Know when to visit
Most rashes under the breasts are benign and are caused by fairly common skin disorders, which disappear without the need for medical treatment. However, sometimes these rashes can be a symptom of some more serious condition. You should see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms.
If the rash doesn't respond to home treatments after a week or two, you need to get examined. You should see your doctor even if the rash is accompanied by fever, severe pain, sores that don't heal, and if the symptoms get worse
Step 2. Go to the doctor's office
Make an appointment with your primary care physician to have the rash analyzed. Tell him about any symptoms accompanying the rash.
- The doctor will likely want to examine the affected skin. If the rash is caused by some benign circumstance and you have no further symptoms, you will be able to make a diagnosis without the need for further tests.
- Sometimes he may decide to have a skin scraping looking for some fungal infection. The doctor may also use a special lamp, such as Wood's (or black light) to better observe the skin. In rare cases, a biopsy may be appropriate.
Step 3. Try the medications
If the rash is due to an infection and does not go away on its own, your doctor may recommend medications. There are several prescription medicines that are used to treat this type of problem.
- Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal creams to apply to the skin; be sure to follow the directions given to you by your healthcare provider.
- He may also recommend low-dose steroid creams or lotions that can protect your skin.
Method 3 of 3: Making Lifestyle Changes
Step 1. Keep the skin under the breasts dry
The moisture created in this area can lead to infections and rashes, so you must do everything to prevent this from happening.
- Clean and dry the skin under your breasts after exercising.
- Make sure you keep it dry on particularly hot days when you sweat a lot.
Step 2. Pay attention to potential irritants
It is possible that some products you use may contribute to irritation of the skin. If you are using products that have never been used before, such as soap, shampoo, lotion, laundry detergent, or other products that your skin comes into contact with, discontinue use. Check if the symptoms go away and, if so, avoid using these products in the future.
Step 3. Put on a bra of the right size
If it is too big or too small it can promote the irritation responsible for the rash. Buy cotton bras with elastic zones, made with high quality materials. Do not get them in synthetic fabric, as they further irritate the skin. If you don't know your exact size, go to an underwear store and ask them to try on different items.
Step 4. Go for cotton fabrics
This material helps reduce moisture under the breasts, allows better transpiration than other fibers and absorbs skin moisture better. Try to wear clothing made of 100% cotton.
Warnings
- Rashes under the breasts are quite common in nursing, obese and diabetic women.
- Itching causes you to scratch and this could lead to an infection.
