Ladies, blame that breast acne on these 4 culprits

Finding acne anywhere on your body might cause some concern, but what if they show up on your breasts or around your nipples? Sounds worrisome, right? But calm down, because it’s just as common as having hair on your breasts. 

Mostly, breast acne is nothing to be worried about, but if the bumps become painful or itchy, and show symptoms like discharge and redness, it could be an indicator of something serious. And needs to be addressed.

What is breast acne?

Acne is generally caused when a hair follicle becomes clogged with excess sebum, an oil produced naturally by our skin to keep itself moisturised. When our skin is unable to eliminate the excess sebum, it often gets trapped in our skin pores. Eventually, this causes acne. The same happens with breast acne. 

We are sure you must have tried some hacks available on the internet. In case they don’t work, consult an expert who will probably give you better advice. 

But for now, let’s first understand the various causes behind breast acne.

Here are some reasons behind breast acne

There are a number of potential causes of getting a pimple on the nipple or other bumps on or around the breast area. These include:

1. Diet

Your diet plays a major role in deciding your health. The chances of the appearance of acne can increase as a consequence of the overconsumption of certain foods. “A diet loaded with refined carbohydrates, trans and saturated fats, milk, and other dairy proteins can cause pimples on the breast,” shares Dr Archana Wadkar, lactation counselor and consultant lactation expert, Motherhood Hospital, Pune, with HealthShots. 

Having excess insulin in the blood can cause the oil glands to produce more oil, which also increases the risk of the appearance of breast acne. 

2. Stress

Stress releases cortisol in the body and that’s really harmful for your skin because you end up with stress acne. Dr Wadkar says, “Stress can impact the glands producing sebum, which is an oily substance made from fats. Thus, the glands produce more oil, which can worsen acne.” 

Also, read: A top dermat reveals 6 effective ways to say goodbye to body acne

So, stress does not directly cause breast acne, but it sure as hell can accelerate it, just like all other types of acne. 

3. Yeast infection

In some cases, pimples on your breast could be a sign of an infection. It especially happens with women who are breastfeeding. Breast pimples can be accompanied by rashes, pain, and itchiness, and the infection can spread rapidly. 

Also, read: Say goodbye to butt acne with these dermatologist-approved tips

4. Hormonal fluctuations

Your body goes through a lot of changes throughout life, and that happens because of the fluctuating levels of oestrogen and progesterone hormones. A lot of times, it’s our hormones that wreak havoc on the skin. 

Dr Wadkar says, “Hormonal changes can cause acne. Thus, many people end up getting pimples during menstruation, and pimples can be seen on the breasts, neck, and even face.”

Dr Wadkar suggests some tips to get rid of breast acne:

1. Say NO to these foods: Cut down on dairy products and saturated fats that can cause breast pimples.
2. Wear loose clothes: To minimize the appearance of pimples on the breasts, opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothes and wash your bras and shirts frequently.
3. De-stress: Stress worsens acne. So, just stay calm by doing yoga or meditation.

As we shared earlier, most pimples you encounter on your breast and nipples are not only common, but nothing to be concerned about. But if something seems a little odd, don’t wait and consult your doctor immediately.