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Stop scratching!
By Rebecca Jane Stokes — Written on Jan 09, 2017
Itchy boobs.
Not a topic most folks are keen to talk about in polite society.
Luckily, I'm here, and I am anything but polite when it comes to talking about our bodies.
How does being polite and coy help when your boobs are so itchy you can't see straight?
If you have ever found yourself wonder, "why are my boobs so itchy?" while you try to resist scractching your breasts all day, please know that you aren't alone.
Small boobs or big ones, it doesn't matter. Breast itchiness is NOT fun.
There are several different reasons your boobs could become itchy, and almost all of them are easy to diagnosis, and easy to treat. Yay!
I've shared the most common reasons breasts itch below in the hopes that reading up on the causes will lead you to feeling itch-free in no time!
1. Allergies
If you're like most women, you spend your day covering your boobs with a bra.
You most likely wash that bra with laundry detergent.
If you suddenly start wondering "why are my boobs so itchy?", your laundry detergent could be to blame.
Try something for sensitive skin (Dreft, designed for infants, is what I wash my delicates in, but Charlie's Soap is also a VERY gentle natural soap that works great).
If that doesn't do the trick, it could be the fabric you're wearing.
I cannot, for the life of me, wear wool without getting covered in bright red welts. Maybe it's a synthetic material in your bra, or maybe something in the lace.
If fabric is to blame, switch it up. Cotton is always a good neutral for sensitive skin.
2. Eczema
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Eczema is a skin condition caused by an irregularity in your immune system.
It causes bright red, flaky, itchy, dry patches of skin to erupt all over your body.
Your boobs are no exception.
Talk to your doctor about prescription drug options to treat this sometimes painful condition.
Some folks recommend time in the sun for eczema, so now just might the time to check out that topless beach you've always wanted to try!
3. Pregnancy
The hormonal changes in your body triggered by pregnancy can often lead to itchy breasts.
If you've missed a period, are feeling bloated, and your boobs are itchy, it might be a sign you are pregnant.
Consult your doctor if you are not pregnant, as it could indicate you need help managing your hormonal balance.
4. Mastitis
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Mastitis is an infection of the breast commonly associated with breastfeeding.
But you don't have to be a new mom to experience it.
The ducts and nipple of one or both breasts become cracked and infected leading to pain, itchiness, and infection.
See your doctor for oral antibiotics to help treat this uncomfortable situation.
5. Bug bites
Most bug bites leave behind a tell-tale red spot of sorts to help you identify your itchiness as a bug bite.
But not all bugs are created equal.
Dust mites (commonly found in mattresses) can leave you with mark-free bites that itch like you won't believe.
Buy a mattress and pillow protector to keep your bed a dust mite free zone.
Oh, and if you have bites you can see, check your mattress for bed bugs.
6. Heat rash
If you have larger breasts and/or you wear bras with underwire in them, it is not uncommon to develop heat rash on or beneath your boobs.
The combination of sweat, heat, and friction can lead to a nasty mottled rash that can itch and burn.
You can treat heat rash by doing what you can to stay cool and dry, using baby powder or underwire-free bras to reduce contact in the effected area.
And change your lightweight clothing often. Keeping them cool and dry can help a lot.
