Bras that don't fit properly can cause more harm than good

About a decade ago, a preliminary French study done by Professor Jean Denis, a sports medicine specialist from Besancon University, courted controversy and drew flak because the researcher said wearing brassieres will not safeguard against sagging breasts and won’t be of any benefit “medically, physiologically or anatomically.”

Claims not  established

The study that lasted 15 years involved 330 volunteers in the 18-35-year age bracket. As per the findings, women who did not wear bras had a seven-millimetre lift in their nipples and their breasts were firmer. The chief researcher claimed that bras interfere with blood circulation and so the collagen increases in those who don’t wear them, thus improving elasticity.

Experts disagree

Many experts here don’t concur with the research findings. But they do affirm that wearing  bras which are too tight for a long time can cause discomfort and dermatological problems. “I don’t think this old research is relevant and it only speaks about nipples being slightly higher. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that the collagen has increased or the elasticity has improved. I don’t think it’s based on good, in-depth research and I would not like to comment on this any further,” said a doctor from Hyderabad.

Not wired right

“If the brassiere is too tight, it can also lead to dermatological issues such as fungal infection and hyper-pigmentation due to sweat accumulation and friction. Therefore, such tight and uncomfortable bras should be avoided, especially during long journeys. Use comfortable cotton bras with cotton straps,” says dermatologist Dr Nishita Ranka, medical director and founder of Dr Nishita’s clinic for skin, hair and aesthetics.

Sports bras are only for working out

Doctors recommend wearing tight sports bras that come with added support only during intense physical activity. After that, have a bath and change to a normal bra, they say. “If worn for a long time, there are chances of sebaceous cysts and fungal infections developing due to occlusion of sweat glands, as well as intertrigo (inflammatory skin condition due to friction, moisture, sweating etc), and hyper-pigmentation - when the skin gets unevenly darker due to the bra strap,” warns the dermatologist.

Hygiene is important

“It is essential to change inner-wear daily, even if one works in an air-conditioned environment. Those who have problems of excessive sweating and skin infection, use antifungal dusting powder before wearing a bra to reduce friction and for better sweat absorption. In case of any pain, infection or other issues, stop using bras and consult a doctor. There is also no need to wear a bra while sleeping at night,” says Dr Nishita.