Eczema is a common skin condition that can develop in numerous body parts and cause itching and redness. This condition can also occur on the breasts, making it unpleasant and worrisome for breastfeeding moms. Breast Eczema, sometimes referred to as nipple eczema, is characterised by irritation, itching, and swelling in this delicate area.
Read on as we tell you more about breast eczema, its symptoms, and several breast eczema treatment methods that you can try to find relief.
What Is Breast Eczema
Breast eczema, as the name suggests, is a kind of eczema that affects the breast and nipple area. This issue can affect women of all ages and may be caused by a variety of factors.
It commonly leads to red, itchy, and irritated skin on and around the breasts, which can be uncomfortable. In certain circumstances, the skin may even start to peel or become crusty, and it may also have a scaly or flaky feel.
Causes Of Breast Eczema
Hormonal imbalances, genetics, and breastfeeding are some of the biggest contributing factors of breast eczema / Image credit: Freepik
Hormonal Imbalances
Breast eczema, also referred to as breast dermatitis can be triggered by hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, nursing, or menstruation. Hormone fluctuations can influence skin sensitivity and cause eczema flare-ups. In such circumstances, managing hormonal changes is essential for pain relief.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding may result in breast eczema. Moisture, friction, and breast milk exposure can all contribute to an environment conducive to eczema. This does not imply that breastfeeding should be avoided, rather extra attention to breast skin care and hygiene will be required.
Stress
Both physical and emotional stress can aggravate eczema symptoms. Following stress management measures, getting adequate sleep, and following a healthy lifestyle can all help to prevent or treat breast eczema.
Genetic Predisposition
Breast dermatitis is more likely to occur if you have a family history of eczema or other allergy conditions. Genetics can influence a person’s susceptibility to illnesses. If you have a family history of eczema, it is important to be vigilant and determined in both preventing and treating it.
Irritants
Eczema between breasts can also be caused by irritants, such as harsh soaps, perspiration, or friction caused by tight clothes. These external factors can weaken the skin’s natural barriers, leaving it prone to inflammation. By avoiding these irritants, you can significantly reduce your chance of developing eczema.
Allergies
Breast dermatitis can be caused by allergies to specific chemicals. Laundry detergents, materials, and even skincare products may cause these sensitivities. When these allergens come into contact with the skin, they can cause irritation and itching, resulting in eczema.
Symptoms Of Breast Eczema
Breast dermatitis can show up in a variety of ways, so it’s important to identify the symptoms. The following are common symptoms:
- Severe itchiness and burning feeling
- Redness and swelling
- Dry, scaly, or flaky skin
- Clear fluid leaking or oozing from the nipples
- Cracked or dry skin
- Tenderness and swelling
How To Get Rid Of Breast Eczema
Using nipple butter and a sensitive skin lotion can help reduce eczema between your breasts / Image credit: Freepik
Moisturise Regularly
A fragrance-free moisturiser is one of the pregnancy care products you can use to keep the affected region nourished. It helps relieve eczema between breasts. Moisturising is an important step in eczema management as it helps rebuild the skin’s barrier and minimises the possibility of flare-ups. As a daily moisturiser, you can choose a natural body lotion that will not irritate your skin, such as The Moms Co.’s Natural Sensitive Skin Lotion.
It is a soothing and moisturising lotion that may be a game changer in your breast eczema treatment routine. It contains calendula oil, which reduces redness and irritation while also providing comfort and relief. It also contains chamomile oil, which is well-known for its relaxing and anti-itching characteristics, as well as its ability to relieve itching and pain.
Organic shea butter and jojoba oil, on the other hand, are natural moisturisers high in vital fatty acids that deeply hydrate and nourish the skin. They help strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, lowering the likelihood of eczema flare-ups.
Use Nipple Butters
Nipple butter, created especially for nursing moms, can help calm and reduce the signs of eczema on breasts. This solution to dry and itchy skin during pregnancy reduces the chances of eczema flare-ups.
You should use a good nipple butter, such as The Moms Co.’s Natural Nipple Butter, which is meant to bring comfort and relief to breastfeeding moms and is also a key contributor in the breast eczema treatment.
It includes organic coconut oil and organic calendula oil, which soothe and moisturise inflamed skin while decreasing dryness, irritation, redness, and inflammation. It also has organic shea butter and lanolin, which both protect and nourish the skin.
It works well for decreasing dryness and keeping skin healthy. Lanolin is a natural emollient that aids in moisture retention, minimising excessive dryness and lowering the likelihood of eczema flare-ups.
Stay Away From Irritants
Remove possible irritants from your regular routine, such as scented items, harsh soaps, and tight-fitting apparel. Choose moderate, hypoallergenic substitutes that are less likely to worsen eczema.
Use Steroid Cream
Corticosteroid creams used topically can help to relieve inflammation and irritation. However, they should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare expert. These creams are available in a variety of strengths, and the appropriate one should be given based on the severity of your condition.
Consider Gentle Soaps
When bathing the afflicted region, use gentle, fragrance-free soaps. Harsh soaps can aggravate symptoms and deplete the skin’s natural oils. Proper washing is essential in the breast eczema treatment.
Cold Compresses
Applying a cool, moist towel to the afflicted region is a breast eczema home remedy that can give relief from itching and irritation. During eczema flare-ups, cold compresses may be very relaxing and comforting, calming the skin and easing irritation.
Stress Reduction
Eczema has been shown to be worsened by stress. To reduce flare-ups, try stress-reduction strategies like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. Stress management improves not just your skin but also your general health.
Seek Medical Care
If your symptoms continue or worsen, see a dermatologist for a personalised treatment plan. Some forms of breast eczema may necessitate more sophisticated therapies, such as phototherapy or medications that suppress the immune system. Based on your unique condition, your dermatologist can give tailored advice.
Although breast eczema can be a difficult and chronic ailment, you can find relief from the discomfort and itching it causes with the right care and attention. Mothers can maintain their breast health and general well-being by understanding the reasons, identifying the symptoms, and applying appropriate preventive measures.
Remember that for the greatest outcomes, eczema management may require a combination of lifestyle modifications, skincare practices, and medication treatments.
FAQ’s
- Is it normal to have eczema on breasts?
Breast eczema can be upsetting even though it is not uncommon. Many women suffer from Breast dermatitis, and there are excellent treatment options available. Instead of brushing this problem off as an everyday occurrence, it’s important to confront it.
- What does breast eczema feel like?
Breast eczema tends to be extremely irritating, with symptoms such as redness, dryness, and, in severe cases, leaking or crusting. It is a painful and frustrating condition that can have a substantial impact on one’s comfort and quality of life.
- How does breast eczema start?
Breast eczema or breast dermatitis can be caused by a variety of causes, including allergies, irritants, hormone fluctuations, stress, and genetic susceptibility.
- Can breast eczema last for months?
Yes, breast eczema may be a long-term condition that lasts months or even years. It may need continuous monitoring and treatment.
Also Read
Benefits of breastfeeding: Learn about the numerous advantages of breastfeeding, including its impact on your baby’s health and development in this article.
Diet for breastfeeding mothers: Proper nutrition is essential during breastfeeding. Find out the dietary choices that can enhance your breastfeeding experience and support your baby’s well-being.
Shea butter for glowing skin: Shea butter is a versatile ingredient with a multitude of benefits for your skin. Read how it may help your skincare regimen and produce a healthy, beautiful complexion.
Cover Image Credit: Freepik.com
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