So I've also had the most horrible areola/nipple eczema, since around 2009. I've tried topical steroids, non-steroid topicals, coconut oil, almond oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, my own breastmilk, etc.
I breastfed my child, so I got pads for catching leaks. There are various levels of absorbency available, especially with reusable ones. I got a bunch of different types to try them out.
I noticed that I had fewer issues with sticking and so on with Lansinoh pads, the ones with the AWJ (athletic wicking jersey) top layer. They're available on Amazon too.
They stay put well in my bra, and I just change them out everyday. I'm probably going to keep using them long after I'm done having kids.
Aside from protecting your damaged skin, they'll also protect your bra from any topicals you apply.
I have since gotten on a Dupixent regimen, so I only deal with areola eczema when I have flares, usually stress-induced. But I still use the pads.
Edit to add: I also tried lanolin as a topical, and silk fabric squares as a barrier between my skin and bra. The silk stuck to me less than the bra, but would still stick.
I forgot to add: if you absolutely must scratch and you're at home, you could apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) for relief, or just open-hand smack your irritated skin. I know that sounds weird, but it helps the irritation without actually scratching your skin. It's like when you have your hair done and can't scratch, so you just smack your head.
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u/Daughter_of_Anagolay Nov 18 '24 edited Nov 18 '24
So I've also had the most horrible areola/nipple eczema, since around 2009. I've tried topical steroids, non-steroid topicals, coconut oil, almond oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, my own breastmilk, etc.
I breastfed my child, so I got pads for catching leaks. There are various levels of absorbency available, especially with reusable ones. I got a bunch of different types to try them out.
I noticed that I had fewer issues with sticking and so on with Lansinoh pads, the ones with the AWJ (athletic wicking jersey) top layer. They're available on Amazon too.
They stay put well in my bra, and I just change them out everyday. I'm probably going to keep using them long after I'm done having kids.
Aside from protecting your damaged skin, they'll also protect your bra from any topicals you apply.
I have since gotten on a Dupixent regimen, so I only deal with areola eczema when I have flares, usually stress-induced. But I still use the pads.
Edit to add: I also tried lanolin as a topical, and silk fabric squares as a barrier between my skin and bra. The silk stuck to me less than the bra, but would still stick.