Several factors may lead to under breast chafing, such as excessive heat and sweat, hormonal changes and underlying viral infections. Simple lifestyle changes and home remedies can help to heal chafing under the breasts. However, it is advisable to see a doctor if symptoms persist.

Under-breasts chafing is quite common in women. It is mainly caused by moisture and friction, making it common among athletes and women with big breasts. It is also possible to develop under breast chafing due to wearing an ill-fitting bra or being overweight.

Some women also develop under breast chafing as a result of fungal, bacterial and yeast infections, hormonal changes experienced during pregnancy, viral infections and auto-immune related conditions. Read on to find out about measures you can take to heal chafing under breasts.

Treatment options for under breast chafing

Most causes of chafing rash under the breasts are treatable by keeping the skin clean, dry and cool at all times. Examples of measures to take include:

1. Regularly cleanse your under breasts with warm water and antibacterial soap. Gently pat the area dry with a soft towel when finished.
2. Avoid scratching the chafed skin under your breasts.
3. Apply an antibiotic ointment, unscented moisturizer or antifungal cream to the affected area as directed by your doctor.
4. Wear comfortable clothes made from soft and breathable materials such as cotton.
5. Avoid using strongly scented lotions, soaps or perfumes around the affected area and your breasts in general.
6. After exercising or spending some time outside in the heat, ensure to change your sweaty bras and shirts as soon as possible.
7. You can place a small cloth between your breasts to reduce rubbing and itching.

Home remedies for chafed under breasts

There are several home remedies that you can apply as a therapeutic chafing cure to treat under the breasts and prevent it from reoccurring. They include:

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is one of the most popular home remedies used to treat skin problems. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, beneficial in treating skin diseases. Aloe Vera also possesses a cooling and calming effect, which soothes the inflamed and irritated skin. Use fresh Aloe Vera juice to treat chafed under breasts.

2. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is famous as a chafing treatment and for skin conditions such as eczema, pimples, acne and more. It is also a suitable option for treating chafed under breasts. It possesses antifungal properties that help fight infections while preventing the growth of fungi.

3. Basil leaves

Renowned for their therapeutic properties, basil leaves are an efficient home remedy for chafed breasts. They have a cooling effect that can instantly relieve the tingling sensation that accompanies breast chafing. Basil leaves also possess antimicrobial compounds that prevent further infections in the affected area.

When to see a doctor

Although most under breast chafing is treatable by home remedies and making a few lifestyle changes, there are certain circumstances under which it is advisable to see a doctor. Seek the attention of a physician if you experience the following symptoms along with under breast rashes:

• Extreme pain around the rash
• Open sores around the chafed area, which don't seem to heal
• Nausea, fever and vomiting
• Failure to notice improvement after several days of using self-help measures
• If you develop symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer

Under breast chafing can be very uncomfortable and unpleasant. Consider applying the prevention and treatment measures described above.