The skin near the breast turns black due to the rubbing of the bra. It is often ignored, thinking that it might have become like this due to the rubbing. Today, we tell you what the real reason behind this.

Many women are troubled by the problem of skin darkening near the breast or under the bra strap. This problem increases especially in summer or due to wearing tight bra for a long time. In such a situation, there is a fear in the mind that whether this is a symptom of breast cancer. Such questions are also searched rapidly on social media and the Internet, which increases the fear further. Does skin darkening caused by bra rubbing really mean cancer? Let us know what medical science and research say about this and what is the real reason for this?

Why does the skin turn dark?

There is constant friction on the skin due to rubbing of the bra or wearing a tight bra. Due to this, hyperpigmentation can occur at that place. According to medical studies, when the skin is repeatedly rubbed, the production of melanin increases, due to which the skin becomes dark. This is called frictional melanosis. Sometimes due to sweat and moisture, infection or fungal infection can also occur at that place, due to which the skin becomes even darker.

Is this a sign of breast cancer?

According to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology and the American Cancer Society guidelines, darkening of the skin alone is not a sign of breast cancer. Symptoms of cancer can usually be:

• Breast lump
• Discharge from the nipple
• change in breast shape or size
• Swelling or dimpling of the skin
• redness or persistent pain

If the skin is getting darker along with these symptoms, then it is important to get an immediate check-up done by a doctor.

What to do if the skin is getting dark due to bra?

• Wear the right size bra,
• Tight bra increases friction.
• Choose cotton bra, synthetic fabric prevents sweating, which can make the skin darker.
• Take care of hygiene, change bra daily and keep the skin dry.
• Do skin care, apply aloe vera gel, moisturizer and sunscreen.
• Pay attention to fungal infection, use anti-fungal cream if there is itching or bad smell.

When to see a doctor?

If there is pain in the breast, lump or discharge from the nipple along with the skin, then contact the doctor immediately. The problem of darkening of the skin is mostly caused by bra rubbing, obesity, sweating and lack of hygiene, and not cancer.