If you notice small bumps or dots on your chest that do not seem to disappear, you may have clogged pores on your breasts. They often look like acne and can be a nuisance. What’s worse is that they are visible to other people if you wear a tank top or swimsuit.
Acne can happen to anyone at any age and is usually harmless. Research has shown that 12-22% of women in the U.S. suffer from adult acne, compared to 3% of the male population.
Having pimples does not mean there is a medical problem. There could be several reasons why those unsightly spots appear.
What causes those annoying ugly blemishes, and how do you get rid of them? Read on to learn the possible causes of pimples, and different ways to eliminate them and prevent them from recurring.
Table of Contents
Why do I Have Clogged Pores on my Breasts?
Hair follicles consist of sebaceous glands that secrete an oily substance, or sebum, to lubricate your hair and skin. Sometimes the glands release too much oil, which mixes with dead skin cells and clogs the small opening, resulting in acne.
The two primary types of acne are whiteheads and blackheads. Whiteheads are the white pimples that close and stay above the skin. Clogged pores that remain open are blackheads, appearing as tiny dark spots.
On rare occasions, bacteria on the skin can infect the pimples and create pustules or cysts. Other factors that can lead to clogging of pores may include:
Genetics
Acne can be hereditary. The tendency to overproduce oils on the skin is a genetic predisposition that can lead to clogged pores. If your parents had acne, you could likely develop it.
Stress
Stress is not a direct cause of acne. According to some dermatologists, stress can exacerbate acne by causing sweat glands to excrete extra oils. Stress causes your body to secrete androgen, a hormone that may stimulate hair follicles and sweat glands to secrete excessive oils.
Hormones
Hormonal changes occur during adolescence, menstruation, and menopause. Increases in the hormone testosterone can stimulate the release of sebum, dirt, and oil that your body leaves behind.
If you notice acne developing quickly, you may need to speak with your doctor about checking hormone levels.
Hygiene
Poor hygiene does not cause pimples to form, but not rinsing after exercise can. Sweat that stays on the skin for too long can irritate existing acne.
Diet
Certain foods may affect the skin and cause acne. According to a study, hyperglycemic carbohydrates, milk and dairy products, saturated fats, and trans fats contribute to skin breakouts. Pasta, white rice, white bread, and pure sugar are also culprits due to their ability to increase blood glucose levels.
Tight Clothes
Clothes that fit snugly can cause friction and do not allow much air circulation to the skin, leading to clogs. Pimples can form due to the blockage of hair follicles.
Topical Creams and Gels
Skincare products and cleansers that can clog pores include lanolin, D&C red dye, isopropyl or propylene glycol, and their derivatives. Makeup and body oils may also contribute to skin breakouts.
Medications
Thyroid hormones, corticosteroids, antibiotics, lithium (psychotropic drug), anti-seizure agents, and some birth control are among the medications that can cause irritation to the skin and exacerbate acne.
How To Get Rid Of Clogged Pores On Breasts?
- Hygiene: Clean the area twice daily with mild soap, and prevent oily, long hair from touching the chest. Remove sweaty clothing and rinse off after exercising. Shower regularly and dry thoroughly.
- Ingredients: Take antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, to help the body fight infection. Apply non-comedogenic topicals that consist of zinc or salicylic acid, sulfur, and benzoyl peroxide, to the acne. Natural ingredients, such as aloe vera or sunflower oil, can help with infection control.
- Exfoliate your skin: You can exfoliate your skin by gently scrubbing the chest with a bath sponge or a medicated body wash containing salicylic acid or retinol.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the epidermis (outer skin layer). It is not for everyone and takes patience.
You should know your skin type before starting the procedure. There are five skin types, and each one may require a different technique.
Exfoliation comes in two forms:
- Mechanical uses a sponge to scrub off the dead skin cells
- Chemical involves using alpha and beta hydroxy acids to remove the dead skin cells
Using improper techniques can damage your skin, so there are things to consider during treatment. If these treatments don’t help, speak with your dermatologist. Dermatologists and other healthcare professionals may prescribe stronger creams or oral treatments.
Tips for Preventing Clogged Pores on Breasts
There are many things you can do to prevent pores from clogging.
Dos:
- Wear looser clothing so that your skin can breathe.
- Regularly wash bras and undershirts to remove sweat and bacteria.
- Change linens often to reduce bacteria on your skin.
- Reduce your stress level through exercise and meditation.
- Use tea tree oil and oil-free sunscreens.
- Eat a balanced diet with complex carbs, where you will find whole grains, unprocessed fruits and veggies, and legumes.
Don’ts:
- Prevent sun exposure to the affected areas.
- Do not use lotions, sunscreens, moisturizers, and medications that clog pores.
- Avoid refined carbs (refined pasta and bread, white rice), saturated fats, and dairy products.
- Avoid using rubbing alcohol, which can dry out the skin.
- Refrain from popping any pimples as that can lead to infection.
When To See a Doctor?
If symptoms do not clear up or if there are changes in the look and feel of the pimples, contact your physician. Report acne that is painful, red, swollen, or pus-filled. Your doctor may need to prescribe an antibiotic or stronger medicine to treat acne.
FAQs
Here are some questions people often ask about clogged pores.
Is it normal to have pores on my breast?
Yes, it is. Acne on breasts is common and harmless. They are easy to treat and often go away after a few days. If they appear to get worse or become painful, you may need to contact your doctor.
How do you get rid of clogged pores under your breast?
You can eliminate clogged pores in several ways.
- Keep your skin clean and avoid using topicals containing lanolin, red dyes, and other comedogenic chemicals.
- Eat more vegetables, fruits, and complex carbohydrates.
- Shower after sweating and keep the area dry.
Is it normal to have blackheads on your chest?
It is common to have blackheads on the chest. When your pores become clogged, blackheads may form. Acne can appear anywhere on your body, including your chest. Use the same treatments as you would for all acne. Do not pick at them or try to remove them, as that could lead to a skin infection.
Conclusion
Except for their annoyance and unattractiveness, clogged pores on breasts are harmless. They are easily treatable and preventable by taking a few steps every day to protect your skin.
Be mindful of what is in the creams and lotions you put on your skin. Limit your intake of processed and refined foods, chocolate, and sweets, including beverages. Wash sweat from the skin after physical exercise, and wash bras and undershirts often.
Exfoliation is an effective way of eliminating unsightly blemishes. If you are unsure which treatment is best for you, consult a dermatologist.
Hi, it’s Judy!
