Nipple Peeling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Nipple Peeling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dear Miss Magjoyful： Based on your description, eczema is a primary consideration. <br>I recommend visiting a dermatologist. <br>Some women may feel embarrassed, so I suggest you first consult a female dermatologist. <br>If there is not much improvement, then you can see a breast

Nipple peeling

About four years ago, I started experiencing scabbing and peeling on the right areola.
This condition recurs every time and lasts for about two to three months.
When I pick at the scabs, it seems to create wounds that become inflamed.
If I leave it alone, it improves, but it occasionally flares up.
Over the past four years, it has occurred about two to three times, each episode lasting two to three months, and it sometimes itches, but most of the time there is no sensation and no pain unless I create a wound.
The left areola has had similar symptoms, but they are infrequent and not severe.
Eventually, the areola area had almost no issues, but then the right nipple started to flake and peel for quite a while.
It healed on its own, but the color seems to have darkened, and there appears to be some pigmentation around the right nipple, with the skin seeming to thicken.
Although it doesn’t look very severe, I am still somewhat concerned about these changes.
Is this a normal change? Aside from this, there have been no other significant issues until the end of September this year when I noticed fine white flakes on the nipple.
When I picked at them, I accidentally pulled at the skin, causing it to break and bleed.
After that, I frequently touched it, and the next day the wound healed, but I noticed white hard skin peeling off.
Taking hot showers seems to cause the skin to peel off as well.
What should I do? Initially, there was no issue, but after frequently touching it for over a month, I noticed it seemed to develop a blister.
When I popped the blister, it bled and scabbed over.
I applied iodine, and the scab fell off, revealing normal, soft skin underneath, but it still seems to form hard skin.
The symptoms have lessened since the blister burst.
Visually, aside from the previously mentioned thickened skin and slightly darker color of the nipple, there doesn’t seem to be a significant difference at first glance, but upon closer inspection, I can see a difference between the two nipples, with the right being thicker.
However, it doesn’t feel rough to the touch.
Could this be related to the prominence of my right sternum? Is it possible that the friction from the protrusion is causing this? Over the years, it seems to occasionally flare up and peel, but if I ignore it, it heals on its own.
I have noticed flaking from the nipple since middle school.
Is this normal? How should I manage this situation? Should I apply medication, or should I seek further examination? Thank you for your response, doctor.

anonym, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/28

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Miss Magjoyful: Based on your description, eczema is a primary consideration.
I recommend visiting a dermatologist.
Some women may feel embarrassed, so I suggest you first consult a female dermatologist.
If there is not much improvement, then you can see a breast surgeon.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Wu.

Reply Date: 2006/11/28

More Info

Understanding nipple peeling can be a concern for many individuals, and it is essential to recognize the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options available. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing recurrent episodes of peeling and crusting of the nipple area, particularly on the right side, for several years. This condition can be attributed to various factors, including skin irritation, infections, allergic reactions, or even underlying dermatological conditions.

Causes of Nipple Peeling
1. Irritation and Friction: Frequent friction from clothing, especially if it is tight or made from irritating fabrics, can lead to skin irritation. You mentioned that your right breast bone is more prominent, which could cause increased friction and contribute to the peeling.

2. Infections: Conditions such as eczema or dermatitis can cause the skin to become inflamed, leading to peeling. Additionally, fungal infections can also cause similar symptoms.

3. Allergic Reactions: Allergies to soaps, detergents, or even certain fabrics can lead to localized skin reactions, resulting in peeling or crusting.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis: This is a common skin condition that can affect the nipple area, leading to flaky, scaly skin.

5. Psoriasis: Although less common, psoriasis can also affect the nipple area, causing red patches covered with thick, silvery scales.

Symptoms
From your description, the symptoms include:
- Peeling and crusting of the nipple skin.

- Occasional itching, but mostly asymptomatic.

- Changes in color and thickness of the skin, particularly on the right nipple.

- Formation of blisters that can burst and bleed upon irritation.

Treatment Options
1. Avoiding Irritants: The first step is to identify and avoid any potential irritants. This includes wearing loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics and avoiding harsh soaps or detergents.

2. Moisturizing: Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help soothe the skin and prevent further peeling. Look for products that contain ceramides or hyaluronic acid.

3. Topical Treatments: If the condition persists, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help reduce inflammation and irritation. However, it is essential to use it sparingly and not for extended periods without consulting a healthcare professional.

4. Antifungal or Antibiotic Creams: If there is a suspicion of a fungal or bacterial infection, topical antifungal or antibiotic treatments may be necessary. These should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

5. Consultation with a Dermatologist: Given the chronic nature of your symptoms and the changes in skin appearance, it would be prudent to consult a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a skin biopsy if there is a concern for a more serious condition.

6. Avoid Picking at the Skin: It is crucial to avoid picking at the peeling skin, as this can lead to further irritation, potential infection, and scarring.

Conclusion
While nipple peeling can be concerning, many cases are benign and can be managed with appropriate care. However, given the chronicity and changes you have described, it is advisable to seek professional medical advice to rule out any underlying conditions and receive tailored treatment. Keeping track of any additional symptoms, such as changes in discharge or persistent pain, will also be helpful for your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

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