Sometimes, the skin under your breast becomes red and irritated. This is known as breast rash. Breast rash can be quite itchy, even painful in some cases and it may even accompany blisters. You may have rash under breasts when you live and work in hot and humid conditions. Women who are overweight, diabetic, pregnant or have pendulous breasts are more likely to develop this condition. In order to get an appropriate treatment, it’s very important to find out the underlying cause of under-breast rash first.

Causes of Breast Rashes

The most common causes of rash under breast include excessive sweating, lack of air circulation, and heat. If you wear ill-fitting bra, it may rub against your breasts and skin to cause rashes. In some cases, your rashes may lead to fungal infections because the yeast and fungi will thrive in warm, moist environment. An infection of the breast tissue or an allergic reaction may also cause red patches, itchiness, discomfort, and a burning sensation.

Home Remedies for Rash Under Breasts

As a rash under breast is not a very severe condition, you can try some simple home remedies to get relief from the rash problem.

1. Apply a Cold Compress

Using a cold compress may help relieve the symptoms like itching and redness caused by rashes under the breasts.

• Simply wrap some ice in a cotton towel and place it over the affected area for 10 minutes.
• Then take a break for a few minutes and repeat.
• Washing the affected area with cold water may also help.

2. Use White Vinegar

Sometimes, the underlying cause of your breast rash is the chemical residue left on your clothes. Using vinegar will fix the issue.

• Get a half-filled bucket of hot water and mix one-half cup of white vinegar in it.
• Use this solution when washing your bras and other clothes.
• Be sure to dry your undergarments in direct sunlight.

3. Use Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil will help relieve the symptoms related to rash under breasts mainly due to its antifungal properties.

• Mix four tablespoons of olive oil and six drops of tea tree oil.
• Dip a cotton ball in it and apply it directly on the affected area.
• Massage the affected area lightly for a few minutes to ensure the oil penetrates into your skin.
• Use this treatment after taking a bath and repeat before you go to sleep.
• Be sure to dilute it first or else tea tree oil may cause skin irritation.

4. Use Aloe Vera Gel

Using aloe vera gel is a great way to relieve the burning and itching sensation caused by rash under breast. Due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, aloe vera gel can eliminate bacteria and heal your skin as well.

• Apply fresh aloe vera gel on the affected area.
• Let it sit for at least 20 minutes. You don't have to wash it off.
• Repeat it a few times a day until you find complete relief.

5. Wear Right Bras

An ill-fitting or tighter bra will rub against your skin and cause irritation. You should buy the bras that have high-grade elastic materials and are made of cotton. Avoid wearing bras made of synthetic fabric.

6. Use Cotton Fabric

Using cotton fabric is a great way to avoid sweat accumulation under your breasts. Cotton clothing is breathable and can absorb moisture to keep your skin dry. Simply place a cotton pad between the lower breast and the skin under it, so the pad can absorb sweat.

7. Avoid Irritants

Sometimes, you develop rash under your breasts because of an allergic reaction triggered by a hygiene product or cosmetics. Consider changing your cream, lotion, or soap to see if it helps. It is a good idea to avoid using OTC creams because they may contain ingredients you may be allergic to. It's also advisable to discuss it with your doctor to select the most appropriate antifungal medication.

8. Lose Some Weight

Being overweight may contribute to the problem and make you deal with rashes more often. If obesity is causing rashes in your case, nothing will work unless you can lose some weight.

Prevention of Rash Under Breasts

You should take the following steps to prevent rashes from happening in the first place:

• Be sure to keep the skin under your breasts dry all the times.
• Clean and dry your skin after every workout session – do the same after you take a bath.
• Always wear properly fitting clothes – opt for the clothes made from natural fibers or cotton.
• Always clean your bedding to avoid the rash affecting other parts of your body.
• Don't share personal stuff, such as hairbrushes, towels, combs, etc., with others.
• Take special care when you have diabetes as it may lead to fungal infections.

When to See a Doctor

It is true that self-care may help in some situations, but you should see your doctor if rashes don't go away in a few days or get worse. If you experience severe pain, sores or rashes that won't heal and high fever, consult your doctor immediately.