6 Things Women Should Never Do To Their Breasts

Let’s be real—our breasts are a pretty significant part of who we are, and they deserve some serious TLC. But believe it or not, there are a few things you might be doing—or even thinking about doing—that can actually cause more harm than good.

1. Wearing the Wrong Bra Size

It might not seem like a big deal, but wearing the wrong bra size can lead to more problems than you’d expect. If your bra doesn’t fit right, it can cause discomfort, back pain and even mess with the shape of your breasts over time.

Most of us don’t even realize we’re wearing the wrong size because we’ve never been properly measured. A bra that’s too tight can squish your breasts, restricting blood flow and causing irritation. On the flip side, a bra that’s too loose won’t give you the support you need, which could lead to sagging sooner than you’d like.

So, what can you do? Get fitted by a pro—whether it’s in-store or online. Once you find your perfect size, you’ll feel the difference, and your breasts will, too!

2. Over-cleansing or Exfoliating

Taking care of your skin is important, but when it comes to your breasts, less is more. The skin on your breasts is super delicate, and over-cleansing or exfoliating can actually strip away those natural oils that keep your skin soft and healthy.

You don’t need to scrub your breasts like you’re trying to polish a floor. Instead, use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser and a soft washcloth. This way, you’re keeping things clean without drying out your skin or causing irritation.

3. Plucking Stray Hairs

We all get those random hairs that pop up in places we’d rather they didn’t—like on our breasts. It’s tempting to just grab the tweezers and pluck them out, but hold up. The skin around your nipples and on your breasts is really sensitive, and plucking can lead to irritation, ingrown hairs, or even infections.

If you spot a stray hair, it’s better to trim it carefully with sanitized scissors or use a gentle hair removal cream made for sensitive areas. Your skin will be happier, and you’ll avoid any unnecessary ouch moments.

4. Sleeping in Your Bra

You might’ve heard that sleeping in a bra can help keep your breasts perky, but guess what? It’s not really necessary, and it can actually be uncomfortable. Wearing a bra to bed, especially one with an underwire, can restrict blood flow, irritate your skin, and mess with your sleep.

Your breasts need some time to breathe, too! So, ditch the bra at night. You can wear a loose, comfy top or just go braless to give your skin a break and avoid unnecessary pressure on your breast tissue.

5. Overdoing It With Underwire Bras

Underwire bras are awesome for support and shaping, but wearing them too often or for too long can have some downsides. The underwire can dig into your skin, therefore causing discomfort, and in some cases, it might even lead to bruising or irritation if your bra isn’t the perfect fit.

It’s totally fine to wear underwire bras, but mix it up with softer, non-wired bras or bralettes when you can, especially when you’re just hanging out at home. Giving your breasts a break from underwires will help keep them comfy and free from unnecessary strain.

6. Getting a Nipple Piercing

Nipple piercings might look cool, but they come with some serious risks. The nipple area is super sensitive and can easily get infected. Piercing your nipple can introduce bacteria, leading to painful infections, scarring, or even complications if you plan to breastfeed in the future.

If you’re thinking about getting a nipple piercing, take a moment to weigh the risks. Make sure you choose a professional who knows what they’re doing and follows strict hygiene standards. And keep in mind your body might not react well to the piercing, so be prepared for that possibility.