Bra chafing is one of those uncomfy, irritating things women all over the world deal with. Whether it's bra chafing under breasts, along the side, or back, the irritation can be really uncomfortable and even worse in hot weather. On the bright side, there are a few ways to prevent chafing under breasts and stop discomfort before it starts.
Bra chafing happens when the bra band repeatedly rubs against your skin, causing irritation, redness or even rashes. This generally happens when swat and friction occur with an ill-fitting bra. Follow along while we unpack the causes of bra chaffing and how to fix it.
Excess sweat under the bust often creates friction, which occurs when the bra isn't supportive enough or if the underwires are uncomfortably digging in, creating friction in the area.
Depending on the fit of the bra band or the materials in the fabric, it can lead to bra chafing on back. Bra chaffing is really common in warmer climates or during exercise, as it causes you to sweat more than usual.
Depending on the fit of your bra ill-fitting side panels can cause bra chafing on sides, especially if the bra is digging in your skin.
Finding the right fit is key to preventing bra chafing as well as being uncomfortable for hours on end. The right bra should feel snug without being too tight or digging into your skin, staying in place without digging in.
Get professionally fitted ideally once a year or whenever your body composition fluctuates.
Opt for bras that don't ride up your back or uncomfortably dig into your shoulders.
Opt for bras made with soft fabrics such as cotton or moisture-wicking microfiber. These fabrics help reduce sweat and friction while remaining breathable and skin-friendly. We recommend avoiding lace or mesh fabrics directly against your skin if you happen to be irritation-prone.
If you do happen to experience the inevitable and super uncomfy bra chaffing, there are a few skin safe products available to reduce friction:
Anti-chafing creams can be applied to problem areas.
Body powders help keep moisture at bay, reducing discomfort and irritation
Your favourite go-to bra may not be suitable for a workout, however, we recommend choosing sports bras that have breathable fabric and moisture-wicking materials. It is so important to make sure this bra fits properly.
To reduce the risk of bacteria and sweat buildup, we recommend washing your bras in a wash bag using a gentle detergent to air drying. This will maintain the fabric quality and bra elasticity.
Excess wear of your favourite bra can lead to the elasticity over time wearing out, making the bra not only uncomfortable but more likely to cause chafing. We recommend rotating between bras to prevent wear and tear from occurring as quickly.
Untreated chaffing can cause infection, requiring medical treatment. If you persistently experience bra chafing under breasts or anywhere else, we recommend consulting your doctor.
Bra chafing doesn’t have to be a daily occurrence. If you're dealing with bra chafing under breasts, bra chafing on the back, or bra chafing on sides, the right fabric and fit can make all the world of difference. Taking notice of how your bras fit is a great way to prevent chaffing, redness, and rubbing - just support. Say goodbye to irritation and hello to confidence with every wear!
