If you have large breasts, you may notice that your skin underneath is red and irritated after a strenuous workout. It's a common problem for women who don't have the proper support while exercising. By wearing the right type of breast support and addressing the chafing problem both before and after a workout, you can ensure comfortable exercise and less of a chance that your irritated skin discourages you from staying fit.
Causes
The chafing under your breasts after exercise can be caused by two problems, and both are bra-related. An unsupportive bra can cause too much sag in the breasts, which can result in the rubbing of breast against the skin underneath the breast. Similarly, a poorly fitted bra can slide around on the body due to sweat during strenuous exercises, irritating the delicate skin underneath the breast. Both problems can be remedied by the right type of bra and performance fabrics that wick sweat away from the body.
Treatment
If you're feeling uncomfortable while you exercise, keep a small bottle of baby powder or cornstarch in your gym bag. Both act to absorb moisture and provide a barrier between your breast and the skin underneath your sports bra. If you already have a rash underneath your breasts, apply an antibiotic ointment cream to remove bacteria that could cause infection.
Prevention
Rather than wait for the problem to occur, try preventing the chafing and discomfort before your workout. Placing cornstarch or baby powder between your skin and your sports bra band can help reduce the chafing. Bras and sports tanks that are made from performance mesh can help you wick perspiration away from your skin, so look specifically for workout gear that will help keep sweat from rubbing with your skin. Of course, getting the right sports bra fit will be your best defense in chafing prevention.
Sports Bra Fit
You may think it's acceptable to purchase a sports bra without first trying it on since it may not be for general use like a regular bra. Since a sports bra is responsbile for providing sports during physical activity, it's important that you try one on and move around to ensure that you have the right fit. Look for sports bras that have molded, separate cups rather than a compression style, as this will keep breasts separate to avoid chafing. Ensure that the bra has hidden seams that won't irritate your skin, and that your breasts are fully supported from the back with large, stable straps.
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