Breast Cream Effects: Concerns and Side Effects for Men - Breast and Thyroid

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Regarding breast enhancement cream?


I am a male, and recently out of curiosity and boredom, I applied my sister's breast enhancement cream on my own chest.
A few days later, I noticed that my chest feels swollen and somewhat different, and it seems to have increased in size a little.
Will this go away eventually, and could there be any side effects?

Xiao Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/18

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid


These breast enhancement medications contain certain ingredients that promote breast development.
If you stop using them, there should be no further effects.

Reply Date: 2020/07/18

More Info


Using breast enhancement creams, particularly those formulated with ingredients that may influence hormonal activity, can raise several concerns, especially for men. The ingredients you mentioned, such as Estradiol, wild yam extract, and others, can potentially have effects on breast tissue due to their hormonal properties.
Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a hormone that plays a significant role in the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, including breast tissue. When applied topically, Estradiol can be absorbed through the skin and may lead to localized effects, such as breast tissue swelling or enlargement. This is likely what you are experiencing with the "fullness" or "swelling" in your chest area after using the cream.
The wild yam extract is often marketed as a natural alternative to estrogen, although its efficacy and safety in this context are not well-established. It is thought to have phytoestrogenic properties, which means it can mimic estrogen in the body. This could potentially contribute to breast tissue development, especially in males who are not accustomed to such hormonal influences.

Regarding your concerns about whether these effects will subside after discontinuing the use of the cream, the answer is generally yes. If you stop using the cream, any temporary enlargement or swelling should gradually decrease as your body returns to its baseline hormonal state. However, the timeline for this can vary from person to person.

As for potential side effects, while many individuals may not experience significant adverse effects from occasional use of such creams, there are risks associated with prolonged use, particularly for men. These can include:
1. Hormonal Imbalance: Prolonged exposure to estrogenic compounds can disrupt the natural hormonal balance in men, potentially leading to conditions such as gynecomastia (the development of breast tissue in males), which may require medical intervention.

2. Skin Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritations from the ingredients in the cream, leading to redness, itching, or rashes.

3. Psychological Effects: The use of breast enhancement products may also lead to psychological effects, including anxiety about body image or dependence on such products for self-esteem.

4. Long-term Health Risks: There is limited research on the long-term effects of using breast enhancement creams in men, but concerns about potential links to hormone-related cancers (such as breast cancer) exist, particularly if estrogen levels are significantly altered.

In conclusion, while the immediate effects you are experiencing may resolve after discontinuation of the cream, it is essential to be cautious about the use of products containing hormonal ingredients. If you have ongoing concerns about your breast tissue or any side effects, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. They can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and help you understand any potential risks associated with the use of such products.

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