Dry Nipples

Dry nipples mean the skin on and around your nipples is cracked, flaky and extremely dry. Your skin may be peeling, and your nipples may feel itchy or sore. This is a common symptom with many possible causes. Dry nipples can be uncomfortable, but they’re usually harmless. You can typically treat them at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

Most of the time, dry and itchy nipples are easy to treat. But in rare cases, they can be a sign of a more serious condition. So, it’s important to keep track of your symptoms and see your healthcare provider if they don’t go away.

Why are my nipples dry?

If your nipples are dry, it can mean many different things. Most causes are fairly minor, but some deserve a little more attention. Causes of dry nipples include:

• Jogger’s nipple: Also known as nipple chafing, jogger’s nipple occurs when your clothing rubs against your nipples, causing friction. It can also happen if your bra is too tight.
• Breastfeeding: There are many reasons that breastfeeding can lead to dry nipples. Anything that comes into contact with your nipples can irritate them. Latching issues, milk blebs and clogged milk ducts can all lead to them, too.
• Contact dermatitis: When you have an allergic reaction or something irritates your skin, this condition causes an itchy rash. Anything from soaps to certain fabrics can lead to contact dermatitis on your nipples.
• Nipple eczema: Nipple eczema (atopic dermatitis) can also cause an itchy rash. Genetics plays a big part in this type of dermatitis. You may have flare-ups throughout your life.
• Paget’s disease of the breast: This rare type of breast cancer develops in the skin of your nipple. It usually only affects one breast and can look like nipple eczema.

Why are my nipples dry during pregnancy?

Hormonal changes are to blame for dry nipples during pregnancy. The levels of estrogen and progesterone in your body go up and down during this time. This can lead to dry, itchy nipples. Your nipples may also be sore, tender or swollen. You may experience dry nipples during other hormonal events, like menstruation and menopause.

What should I put on dry nipples?

To treat dry nipples, you can usually use an over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizing cream or ointment. Make sure the cream is unscented. You might also try petroleum jelly to keep your skin moist. Other at-home treatment options include:

• Warm compresses
• Breast milk
• Nipple gel pads
• Lanolin-free nipple balm
• Colloidal oatmeal

If jogger’s nipple or contact dermatitis is the culprit, the dryness will typically go away after you stop using the product that’s causing irritation.

If these methods don’t work, talk to your healthcare provider. They may prescribe you an anti-inflammatory cream or ointment, like a corticosteroid.

Can dry nipples be prevented?

Yes. You can prevent some causes of dry nipples. To start, wear comfortable bras or shirts that don’t rub against your nipples. If the problem persists, you can try putting adhesive bandages over your nipples to prevent chafing. Other tips to prevent dry nipples include:

• Work with a lactation consultant if you run into any problems with breastfeeding.
• Avoid allergens that you know lead to irritation or allergic reactions.
• Use fragrance-free soaps, cleansers and moisturizers.
• Become familiar with what looks and feels “normal” for your breasts.
• Get regular mammograms.

When should dry nipples be treated by a doctor or healthcare provider?

See your provider if you also have pain, tenderness or nipple discharge that lasts for more than a few days. You should also check in with them if home treatment with OTC medication hasn’t worked after two weeks. Of course, you can always talk to your provider about any concerns you may have.