Why You Shouldn't Ignore Excessive Boob Sweat

Boob sweat can be a real nuisance, and also a normal part of summer. While it's typical to get sweaty in warmer weather, boob sweat can be particularly challenging because of the anatomical makeup of the area. "The skin hangs and folds on itself, leaving less air to evaporate the sweat," dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian told The Strategist. It can make for a particularly challenging situation, and an area that's harder to keep dry. Of course, there are a few helpful things to try to keep boob sweat in check. For starters, dermatologist Dr. Amanda Doyle suggested going braless when possible, or choosing cotton bras since cotton "reduces sweating and prevents sweat from being trapped under heavier garments." For those with bigger breasts, part of the challenge is managing size. A supportive bra, particularly a supportive sports bra during workouts, is crucial, but the material of bras can also be a hindrance, which is why cotton is an option. 

For the most part, boob sweat is natural, both in hot weather and when working out, so it doesn't need to be completely managed away. "Underboob sweating is your body's natural way of regulating heat, so as a health professional, I'd certainly not recommend trying to preventing it," trainer Yvette MacDonald told Glamour. "Instead, embrace underboob sweat as it shows you're working out hard and you're well hydrated." However, an excessive amount of boob sweat can mean different things. Here's what to keep an eye out for.

While boob sweat is a normal part of life, an excessive amount of boob sweat can indicate that something's off about your hormones. In some cases, these hormone changes are expected. Dermatologist Maryann Mikhail told Refinery29 that changes from pregnancy, nursing, and menopause are all normal parts of life. 

But if boob sweat is out of the ordinary, it could point to hormonal imbalances. According to Kennesaw Gynecology, significant changes in sweating may mean that hormone imbalances are creating these side effects. If this is the case, it would be worth it to seek out medical attention. "If you notice that you are unexpectedly sweating more than usual, see your doctor," Dr. Aamer Khan told Glamour. Keep an eye out for changes in this area and if they're abnormal for you, consult your doctor to see what the best course of action may be. As Kennesaw Gynecology noted, there are several helpful treatments available should hormone imbalance be creating these problems. 

Even if the problem isn't hormone imbalance, excessive boob sweat can lead to other serious issues. Unchecked dampness can cause yeast infections and rashes. "If your boob sweat causes chafing, an uncomfortable rash and red, itchy or broken skin, it could be a sign of a yeast infection," Dr. Aamer Khan warned Glamour. "Candida loves a moist, warm, dark environment like your underboobs, in which case you may need a prescription cream to treat it." So if this is the case, it's time to see your doctor. Dermatologist Dr. Michele Green told HelloGiggles to seek out medical attention if you've developed a rash in your breast area or if your boob sweat smells off.

In order to prevent excessive moisture from boob sweat, there are a few useful hacks to be aware of. First of all, towel dry the damp breast area when possible. Also, some dermatologists recommend an antiperspirant. "Using specific deodorants, powders or creams can help prevent the problem," says Dr. Anna Guanche told HelloGiggles. "The best type of deodorant to use would be a cream type or a soft solid, not a gel." It's worth mentioning though that there's some dispute about the safety of using antiperspirant on other parts of the body. But there are balms and cream sticks for chafing, as well as absorbent powders to help. There are also organic, cotton bra liners, and one can even use panty liners in a bra to help absorb moisture. It's imperative to keep that area dry.