Here at GLAMOUR, we’ve got nothing against a bit of sweat. After all, it’s an entirely natural, biological process, which helps regulate our bodies temperature and literally keeps us alive. Having said that, does it really have to make an appearance under our boobs?
One of my main qualms with underboob sweat is not its appearance (which I actually think can be quite sexy), it’s the itchiness. Anyone else ever walked back from the gym in their sports bra only to uncover an unsightly rash when they finally peel it off at home? Not cool.
Dr Aamer Khan, Clinical Director and Managing Director of The Harley Street Skin Clinic, reminds us that sweating under your breasts (while annoying) is totally normal. He explains, “When skin touches skin it impedes the ability for sweat to evaporate. This means that the area under your breasts can accumulate sweat. Friction, the wrong type of bra and a lack of air circulation can also make underboob sweat a real summer bugbear.”
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“In some cases, excessive underboob sweating can be caused by hormonal factors so if you notice you are sweating unexpectedly more than usual, see your doctor. Additionally, if your boob sweat causes chafing, an uncomfortable rash or red itchy or broken skin it could be a sign of a yeast infection – candida loves a moist, warm, dark environment like your underboobs – in which case you may need a prescription cream to treat it.”
Is it okay to use deodorant under your boobs?
According to Dr. Aamer, “There’s been some debate about whether the ingredient aluminium, used in some deodorants, is linked to breast cancer but there are no strong studies to support this claim or any clear evidence that it increases your risk. But if you have concerns try using a natural deodorant in a solid stick form.
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What are your top tips for dealing with underboob sweat?
- Certain foods can help you reduce body heat. Tuck into water rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and mint-based drinks.
- Ditch the synthetic materials. Most bras are made with materials like polyester and rayon. Synthetic materials don’t “breathe.” This means they trap heat and prevent sweat from evaporating. Look for bras in soft lace or cotton, a naturally breathable fabric. Full-support bras or push-up bras can also help by keeping the breasts from laying on the chest wall but avoid padded bras as the extra material may cause even more sweating.
- They’re not sexy but they will do the trick. Panty liners are the ultimate DIY breast sweat solution. Stick a couple inside your bra to help soak up the sweat and prevent stains from forming on your clothes.
- Baby powder can help prevent chafing and rashes – sprinkle in your bra cups and over your upper rib cage before dressing. If you want a quick kitchen cupboard solution, you could use cornflour, which is super-fine and very absorbent although a bit tricky to apply. Watch out if you’re wearing black.
- Keep a bottle of Argan oil handy. Thanks to its antioxidants and fatty acids, it can help to reduce redness, repair skin damage and hydrate skin. Apply after showering under and around your breasts. The argan oil is also packed with nutrients such as vitamin E, phenols and carotenes to restore skin to a healthier condition.
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Panty liners are the ultimate DIY breast sweat solution. Stick a couple inside your bra to help soak up the sweat and prevent stains from forming on your clothes
- Keep a packet of wipes in your handbag and use them when you need to freshen up. Sweat only smells when it mixes with bacteria on your skin so cleaning your skin as soon as you start sweating should help.
- Avoid tight tops and bras that will trap heat and moisture. If you do get hot and sweaty change into clean dry clothing straight away.
GLAMOUR also had a chat with Yvette MacDonald, a Trainer at Fitness First, who reiterated that underboob sweat is really nothing to be ashamed of. She explained, “It’s your body’s natural way of regulating heat, so as a health professional, I’d certainly not recommend trying to preventing it, I’d rather go with “embrace it”, it shows you’re working hard and you’re well hydrated.”
Whether you decide to embrace the underboob sweat or invest in a pack of pantyliners for your gym bag (or both), we’ve got your back. Oh, and if you aren’t feeling the pantyliners, why not have a look at GLAMOUR’s selection of the best bra liners instead?
These bra liners that stop you sweating have so many positive reviews
For more from Glamour UK’s Lucy Morgan, follow her on Instagram @lucyalexxandra.
