After a year where many of us kissed wireless bras buh-bye (and many more of us banned boob-shackles for good), almost every piece of lingerie feels at least somewhat unnatural. But sometimes it goes beyond your pandemic desire of letting your breasts hang loose. Sometimes your bra is actually irritating your skin in a way that's causing legitimate dermatological woes.
And your bra can be pretty sneaky about how it does this! Although there are reliable suspects when it comes to uncomfortable bras, sometimes your underwear can screw you over in a way you wouldn't guess. Below, two dermatologists weigh in on the different ways your bra might be causing you skin woes.
"There may be a fungal rash under your bra straps that is pretty common to have in the spring months that can get very irritated when rubbed, called tinea versicolor," says Nava Greenfield, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. Generally speaking, this would cause a slight discoloration of skin, mild itching, and a sort of scaliness. Though not dire, if the fungal infection gets out of control, you can check in with a derm and get a prescription for an anti-fungal cream.
And if you're noticing any rashes on your shoulders that don't fit that description, something else could be to blame. "You may be experiencing a contact allergy to the rubber, if there is any, on your bra straps or to the textile," says Dr. Greenfield.
Related Stories
{{ truncate(post.title, 12) }}
2. Your popped open wire is more than an aesthetic problem
The other day, with the bravery of millennial Joan of Arc, I wore a bra with cups. Mid-way through the day, said bra had the audacity to have the wire pop out and poke at me for hours. A popped wire can definitely be an eye sore and physically aggravating, but there's another reason to toss your bra out if you can't get it back in.
"An underwire bra, if exposed can lead to a nickel allergy rash," Dr. Greenfield says.
3. Your underboob sweat can cause a rash
One reason to hate a steamy summer: the tragedy of underboob sweat. Busty girls understand how annoying this problem is, but if you're not kept dry, it can spiral into something truly obnoxious. "Buildup of sweat and moisture under your breast by the bra line can result in a rash called intertrigo, which can be painful and irritating," says Dr. Greenfield.
Moreover, board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD adds that your sweaty bra can even result in a yeast infection over time. FYI, investing in a cooling, moisture-wicking bra for the hotter months has been a game-changer for this 32DD girl.
4. Your morning workout might be creating sports-bra-induced boobne
While we're on the subject of boob sweat, let's discuss how often we should change our bra. If you've just done a major work-out and you're lounging around in your yoga bralette, here's some bad news: "the friction from a sports bra can give you zits," says Dr. Gohara.
While friction is inevitable if you're working out, that means you should change out of your bra ASAP when you're done. Also make sure that you're wearing the appropriate size if you're experiencing a sort of skin-suffocation that can result in sweat-and-oil build-up. And if you need some TLC, there's plenty of products that help you banish breast acne; I know enjoyed developing a décolletage exfoliating boobcare routine of my own.
Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.
Light brown or black skin patches may be a sign of acanthosis nigricans. This treatable skin disorder isn't contagious or dangerous. However, it can be a sign of diabetes, so talk to your healthcare provider. Often, treating diabetes (or another underlying cause) causes the skin to clear up.
This skin disorder results in light-brown-to-black spots. It often happens to otherwise healthy people, but in some cases, it may be a sign of an underlying condition. The markings look like a spot or stain that you might think you can scrub off. But washing will not remove acanthosis nigricans (AN).
Where does acanthosis nigricans appear?
The velvety markings that are characteristic of acanthosis nigricans (a-can-THO-sis NIH-grih-cans) can appear anywhere on the body. They most often show up on the skin folds of the neck, armpits and groin and under the breasts.
Is acanthosis nigricans contagious?
No, AN isn't contagious. You can't pass it to others or get it from other people.
Is acanthosis nigricans dangerous?
The condition is not harmful, but it may be a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment. If you notice unusual marks or skin shading, see your healthcare provider. Your provider or a dermatologist (skin specialist) will run some tests to determine what type of treatment you need.
Who gets acanthosis nigricans?
Anyone can develop acanthosis nigricans, including otherwise healthy people. You may be at higher risk for getting this condition if you:
- Have excess weight or obesity.
- Have a family history of AN.
- Are of Native American, African, Caribbean or Hispanic descent.
- Have darker skin.
Does acanthosis nigricans mean I have diabetes?
While AN doesn’t always mean you have diabetes or prediabetes, it can be a sign of diabetes. So talk to your healthcare provider if you notice signs of AN.
Prediabetes means you have early signs but haven’t yet developed diabetes. If you have prediabetes, your provider will talk to you about steps to take to reduce your risk of developing diabetes. And if you do have diabetes, you and your provider can discuss treatment options.
How common is acanthosis nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans is a rare disease. Researchers don’t know how often it occurs in America. However, a study of adults with obesity found that of those who weighed double their ideal body weight, at least 50% showed signs of acanthosis nigricans.
AN can have many causes, including:
- Conditions associated with elevated insulin blood level, such as obesity, prediabetes or diabetes.
- Congenital cause, meaning you are born with this condition.
- Genetics, if family members have AN as well.
- Certain medications, such as birth control pills or steroids.
- Hormonal conditions, including thyroid disease, Addison’s disease, hypothyroidism or other pituitary disorders.
- Growth hormone therapy.
AN symptoms tend to develop slowly. If symptoms develop quickly, it may be a sign of cancer, though this is rare.
What are symptoms of acanthosis nigricans?
Signs of this skin condition include:
- Patches of brown or black skin.
- Skin that feels velvety.
- Skin tags.
- Itchiness.
- Foul-smelling skin patches.
Symptoms tend to appear slowly, over months or even years. If these signs appear suddenly, see a dermatologist. It may be a sign of cancer.
Your healthcare provider will talk to you about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Often, these steps are enough to diagnose AN. Other tests to diagnose AN include:
- Blood work, which can help confirm or rule out underlying conditions such as diabetes.
- Skin biopsy (taking a sample of skin tissue), on rare occasions, if the diagnosis is not straightforward.
AN will not go away on its own, but you don’t always need medical treatment. If no underlying condition is causing AN, you can decide if you want to treat the dark patches.
Is acanthosis nigricans reversible?
People typically see good results after treatment. The skin clears, although the dark spots may not go away completely.
What treatments are available for acanthosis nigricans?
Treatment for AN depends on the cause. If AN is due to an underlying condition, such as diabetes or a hormonal condition, treating the condition will treat the skin problems.
Often, weight loss, exercise and a nutritious diet help reduce insulin levels, resulting in improved skin. The patches may even disappear completely.
Other treatments include:
- Prescription creams to lighten the area.
- Laser therapy or dermabrasion to reduce thickness.
- Antibiotics to get rid of odor or discomfort.
- Retinoids to help clear the skin.
- Stopping certain medications that are causing AN.
Do not use skin care products to treat dark spots without consulting with a healthcare provider. These products may not work and may even irritate your skin, worsening the condition.
How can I manage acanthosis nigricans?
If the AN is related to elevated insulin, managing your weight and eating a healthy diet can help prevent or reduce the dark spots.
If obesity is causing AN, you can help prevent the condition through weight management. A diet that helps you keep your blood sugar (insulin) levels in check can also help prevent AN.
Other preventive steps include:
- Managing medical conditions related to AN, such as thyroid problems and diabetes.
- Avoiding medications, such as birth control pills, that can cause or worsen AN.
AN isn't dangerous or harmful. People can live normal, healthy lives with AN.
However, it’s important to manage conditions that may be causing AN, such as diabetes, obesity or hormonal conditions. And if the dark patches appear suddenly, see your healthcare provider immediately. The sudden appearance may be a sign of cancer.
Any time you notice changes in your skin, see your healthcare provider or a dermatologist. Small markings or changes may seem insignificant, but they may indicate a problem. Acanthosis nigricans can be a sign of prediabetes or diabetes. Talk to your provider so you can get the proper care.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Acanthosis nigricans is a treatable skin condition that causes dark patches on your body. It is often (though not always) a sign of prediabetes or diabetes. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if you have an underlying condition causing AN. A healthcare provider can help you get treatment to reduce the marks and help you feel and look your best.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 02/11/2021.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology. Acanthosis Nigricans: An Overview. (//www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/acanthosis-nigricans-overview) Accessed 11/9/2021.
- National Association for Rare Disorders. Acanthosis Nigricans. (//rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/acanthosis-nigricans/) Accessed 11/9/2021.
- American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Acanthosis Nigricans. (//www.aocd.org/page/AcanthosisNigricans) Accessed 11/9/2021.
Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information
enews
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy