It is the age old question: how many wears can you actually get out of a bra before it needs a scrub? Jackie O’s "gross" confession certainly divided the crowd, but from a clinical perspective, there is a clear winner.
Madeline Calfas explains that while it might seem like a harmless shortcut, leaving your bras unwashed for too long can lead to some fairly unpleasant skin issues.
The Science Of Skin Contact
Your bra sits directly against your skin for hours on end. Throughout the day, it collects a cocktail of sweat, dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria.
"When you re-wear an unwashed bra, you are essentially pressing all of that build up back into your skin," says Madeline. "This creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to breakouts, rashes, and even fungal infections under the bust."
Watch Out For "Bacne" And Irritation
f you have been struggling with body acne or itchy patches on your back and chest, your laundry routine might be the culprit. The friction of a dirty bra can cause "acne mechanica," where the combination of pressure and trapped bacteria clogs your pores.
Madeline suggests that for most Aussies, especially with our humid weather, you should be washing your bra after every two to three wears. If you have had a particularly sweaty day or a session at the gym, it needs to go straight into the wash.
Protecting Your Skin Barrier
At GMC Cosmedical, we focus on maintaining a strong and healthy skin barrier. Constant exposure to old sweat and bacteria can compromise that barrier, leading to sensitivity and redness.
"Think of your bra like your underwear," Madeline advises. "You wouldn't wear the same pair of knickers for a week, so why treat your bra any differently? Your skin will definitely thank you for the fresh start."
The GMC Recommendation
Good skin hygiene doesn't stop at your face. Keeping your clothing clean is a simple but effective way to prevent avoidable skin dramas.
If you are dealing with persistent body breakouts or irritation and want to get your skin back on track, Madeline and the team at GMC Cosmedical are here to help. We can look at your routine and find the best clinical solutions to keep your skin clear and healthy from head to toe.
