Rash Below The Breast: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatments

A rash below the breast is a common skin concern that many women experience at some point in their lives. These rashes often develop due to the warm, moist environment created by skin folds rubbing together. While a skin rash under the breast can affect individuals of all ages and body types, they are more prevalent in those with larger breasts, prone to excessive sweating, or compromised skin barrier. If left untreated, these rashes can progress into fungal or bacterial infections. Rashes under the breast should be treated with the same importance as any other skin or health condition. Although most cases are benign, persistent rashes may indicate underlying conditions such as eczema or, in rare instances, malignancies like Paget’s disease.

What is a Rash Below the Breast?

A rash under the breast develops when the skin folds rub together, creating a warm and moist environment that is conducive to irritation or infection. These rashes typically present as redness, itching, or cracked skin and can stem from various causes, including inflammation, fungal overgrowth (such as candidiasis), allergic reactions, or chronic skin conditions like eczema. While most cases of rashes under the breast are harmless, severe instances may involve pain, blistering, or foul odours. In such situations, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to rule out infections or rare malignancies. By understanding the common causes of these rashes, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and manage them effectively.

Common Causes of Rash Below the Breast

Several factors can contribute to breast rash causes. The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the most common causes, along with their key symptoms:

1. Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a common inflammatory skin condition caused by friction, moisture, and lack of ventilation in skin folds. It leads to red, raw, itchy, and sometimes oozing rashes beneath the breasts with a burning or stinging sensation.

2. Candida (Yeast Infection)

Candida is a fungal infection caused by overgrowth of yeast in warm, moist areas like under the breasts. Symptoms include a red, itchy rash with satellite pustules, and sometimes a white, curd-like discharge or foul odor.

3. Heat Rash (Miliaria)

Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat under the skin. It causes small red bumps or clear blisters, often with itching, stinging, or a prickly heat sensation under the breast area.

4. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema under the breasts can cause dry, scaly patches of red, itchy skin that may crack or ooze. It’s often triggered by irritants, sweat, or allergens and tends to be chronic or recurring.

5. Allergic Reactions (Contact Dermatitis)

Allergic reactions from detergents, fabrics, or lotions can lead to contact dermatitis. This causes redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes blisters or peeling where the allergen has touched the skin.

6. Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis affects skin folds and appears as smooth, shiny, bright red patches under the breasts. It often lacks the flakiness of other psoriasis types but may crack or feel sore and irritated.

7. Paget’s Disease of the Breast

Paget’s disease is a rare type of breast cancer that affects the nipple and surrounding area. It may start as a red, scaly rash resembling eczema, accompanied by itching, burning, discharge, or nipple changes.

In addition to the causes mentioned above, other factors that may contribute to rashes under the breast include bacterial infections (often secondary to untreated intertrigo), ringworm (a fungal infection causing circular, scaly patches), and hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause that affect sweat gland activity. By identifying the specific cause of the rash through medical intervention, individuals can seek targeted treatments to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

In addition to the causes mentioned above, other factors that may contribute to rashes under the breast include bacterial infections (often secondary to untreated intertrigo), ringworm (a fungal infection causing circular, scaly patches), and hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause that affect sweat gland activity. By identifying the specific cause of the rash through medical intervention, individuals can seek targeted treatments to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

Symptoms of Rash Below the Breast

A rash under the breast can be an uncomfortable and distressing condition, presenting with various symptoms that may impact daily life. It’s crucial to be aware of these signs to ensure prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

Common symptoms of a rash under the breast include:

• Redness or discolouration of the skin
• Itching, which can range from mild to severe
• Swelling or inflammation in the affected area
• Pain, tenderness, or a prickling sensation
• Cracked, broken, or weeping skin
• Discharge or an unpleasant odour

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to monitor them closely and consider seeking medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Effective Treatments for Rash Below the Breast

Treating a rash under the breast effectively involves addressing the underlying cause and alleviating symptoms. For a rash under the breast treatment includes:

• Antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole, which are effective against fungal infections like candidiasis. These creams are available over-the-counter or can be prescribed by a doctor if needed.
• Hydrocortisone creams, which are mild steroid creams that help reduce inflammation and itching associated with conditions like intertrigo.
• Moisture-wicking powders that help keep the area dry, preventing the growth of fungi and bacteria that thrive in moist environments.
• Proper hygiene practices, such as washing the area regularly and keeping it clean, are essential to prevent infections.
• Wearing breathable fabrics can help reduce moisture accumulation, thus preventing rashes.

In addition to these medical treatments, home remedies and self-care tips can also be beneficial in managing rashes under the breast.

Home Remedies and Self-Care Tips

Incorporating self-care practices and home remedies can complement medical treatments for rashes under the breast. Keeping the affected area dry is crucial, as moisture can worsen conditions like candidiasis. Applying cold compresses can help soothe itching and reduce inflammation, while coconut oil, known for its antimicrobial properties, may be beneficial when applied to the affected area after ensuring the skin is clean.

Using a fan or exposing the area to air can also help keep it dry and promote healing. Regular washing with mild soap and avoiding tight clothing can prevent further irritation. By combining these self-care tips with appropriate medical treatments, you can effectively manage and treat rashes under the breast.

How to Prevent Rash Below the Breast

Preventing rashes under the breasts involves a combination of good hygiene practices, proper clothing choices, and managing overall health. 

• Regularly clean and dry the area under the breasts, using mild cleansers or unscented soaps, ensuring the area is completely dry after bathing. 
• Wear loose, breathable clothing, such as bras made from moisture-wicking materials like cotton, to help reduce moisture accumulation.
• Managing weight can also reduce skin fold irritation and prevent conditions like intertrigo, a common cause of under-breast rashes. 

Useanti-chafing powders to absorb moisture can be beneficial.

Conclusion

A rash below the breast can be caused by various conditions, including fungal infections like candidiasis and skin fold irritation known as intertrigo. Recognising the symptoms, such as redness, itching, and a distinct odour, is crucial for prompt treatment. Preventative measures, including good hygiene practices, wearing breathable clothing, and managing weight, can help prevent recurrence and manage these conditions effectively. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical advice from your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, ensuring relief and reducing the risk of complications associated with these skin infections.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• Breast Rash. (2021, February 5). National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) | Donate Online. https://nbcf.org.au/about-breast-cancer/detection-and-awareness/breast-rashes/
• Paget Disease of the Breast. (2012, May 21). Cancer.Gov. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/paget-breast-fact-sheet