When you hear the term ‘acne or pimple,’ your mind visualises pimples on the face. But pimples can appear almost anywhere on your body. This simply means you can find pimples on your arms, shoulders, neck, legs, back, stomach, or even on your breasts. It can be a little annoying to have pimples on your breasts, but it’s rarely something to be worried about. Just like pimples on your face, you can easily treat breast pimples or acne with the right products.
Why Do You Have Pimples on Your Breasts?
It is for the same reason as pimples on your face or any other part of the body. Breast acne or pimples can be a result of excessive sweat, a bacterial infection, a buildup of sebum, or dead skin cells. The sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which combines with hair follicles and dead skin cells to form pimples. Excessive oil secretion becomes the breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, clogs pores, and turns into a pimple.
Different Forms of Breast Acne
| Types of Breast Acne | Causes |
| Blackheads | Dark bump or spot caused by a clogged hair follicle. |
| Whiteheads | White bump or spot caused by a thick layer of skin. |
| Pustules | A pus-filled bump that is white or yellow and surrounded by inflamed skin. |
| Papules | Small visible bumps on your breasts without any pus. |
| Nodules | Severe acne that feels hard to touch and develops under the skin. |
| Cysts | Severe pus-filled acne that may require medical treatment to remove. |
Causes of Breast Pimples
Genetic
If your parents or siblings are prone to acne, you may be more likely to develop it.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal fluctuation results in the secretion of excessive sebum. This can happen during the menstrual cycle, during stress, or even during pregnancy.
Sweating
cotton bra to keep you cool and dry throughout the day.
Yeast Infection
Overgrowth of yeast is often associated with the vagina, but it can grow on other areas of your skin too. Yeast causes pimple-like red spots under the breast due to excessive sweat. You need to keep the area dry and use an antifungal cream to prevent infection.
Tight Bra or Clothing
You may get pimples on your breasts by wearing an ill-fitting bra or tight-fitting clothes. You get acne mechanica when your clothes trap heat and sweat and rub against your skin. Switch to a comfortable how your workout leggings should fit to keep acne mechanica at bay.
Insect Bite
A mosquito, ant, spider, or bug could find their way to your breast and leave a mark. However, you will be able to differentiate an acne and bug bite easily by the itch factor. If you are scratching a lot, an insect is a suspect!
Medical Conditions and Dietary Choices
Sometimes, the reason for acne is unknown. It could be a result of underlying health conditions, medications, or even your dietary choices. A diet rich in refined carbohydrates, milk and dairy proteins, trans fats, and saturated fats can increase the risk of acne.
Body Lotions and Creams
Certain sunscreens, scented body lotions, and thick moisturisers may cause acne on the breasts.
Treatment for Pimples on Your Breasts
You won’t really need treatment if you notice just one or two pimples. You can follow a normal skincare routine and use the right skincare products to remove pimples on your breasts. Always look for the best products suitable for your skin type. Here are some quick remedies to treat breast acne.
Use Acne Ointment
Apply ointment or cream that contains salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to remove existing acne and prevent it from returning.
Use Medicated Body Wash/Soap
You can gain many benefits from using a medicated body wash suitable for your skin type to fight and prevent acne all over the body.
Use Lotions and Creams
If you have pimples on your breasts, you should select skincare products that will not clog pores. Buy lotions, sunscreen, and other cosmetics that are non-comedogenic and oil-free.
Wear Breathable Inner Garments
Throw away your tight-fitting workout gear and switch to comfortable sportswear. Wear loose-fitting measure your bra size and wear the perfect style of bra to avoid any discomfort.
Shower After Exercise
Washing off sweat and bacteria is the best way to prevent pimples on your breasts and other areas. You should also be wearing different underwear while working out to feel fresh.
Reduce Stress
Engage in activities such as yoga, meditation, or Zumba to cope with stress. Chronic stress can lead to health problems that cause hormonal imbalances and acne.
How Long Will Breast Acne Last?
It depends on the type of pimple, precautions, and remedies you follow. Whiteheads, blackheads, and pustules generally disappear faster than nodules, papules, and cysts. On average, pimples on your breasts last for a week or more.
Are Pimples a Sign of Cancer?
No! Pimples are small, raised spots that go away on their own. Skin irritation and dimpling are early signs of breast cancer.
When Should You Worry?
- The spot grows larger day by day.
- Swelling of the breast.
- Patch of skin that’s rough and dimpled.
- Lump under the spot.
- Itchy breast.
Pimples on your breasts are very normal, like the ones on your face. If you follow proper hygiene, diet, and skincare routines, you can get rid of them easily. If you need more help, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor.