Like most women on the planet, I can distinctly remember when my breasts started developing as a teen. It can be an incredibly awkward experience as we try to navigate the needs of the new additions on top of all the hormones and emotions raging. But over time, we eventually figure out the best way to deal with the extra baggage on our chests.
Or at least, we think we do. It turns out that most of us ladies are completely wrong or simply in the dark when it comes to what we put our boobs through. At best, so many of us are enduring far more discomfort than necessary that could be easily avoided — at worst, we're putting our health in serious danger by not paying close enough attention to their needs.
I know I'm guilty of a few of the mistakes below, but I'm so glad I know the facts now.
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Did we miss any little known bad habits that affect our breasts? Let us know in the comments and be sure to SHARE with your loved ones!
[H/T: PositiveMed, Stylist]
Thumbnail sources: Wikimedia Commons 1, 2
1. Wear The Wrong Size Bra
Only 1 in 4 women wear their correct size, most running a bit too small. That extra bit of cleavage might look nice, but on top of being uncomfortable, studies show that squeezing into too-petite cups can restrict blood flow and cause scar tissue to form that potentially leads to cancer.
2. Pluck Stray Hairs
Every time you tug one of those pesky follicles from that sensitive area, you make the naturally thin skin much thicker, which frequently makes the hair grow back with more girth and inflammation.
3. Pinch Too Tight
We know some women enjoy a love bite or too while getting frisky with their partners. But these can also cause the same damage with scar tissue as wearing a bra that's too small, leading to potentially painful issues. So try not to get too carried away in the boudoir.
4. Get A Nipple Piercing
Any piercing location runs the very common risk of becoming infected, but the nipple's close proximity to the lymphatic system means that icky bacteria can quickly spread its way through your bloodstream.
5. Smoke Cigarettes
The harsh chemicals you're inhaling with each puff of a cigarette are notorious for taking a toll on your lungs, but they also seep into the skin and zap the elastin, which is what makes regular smokers start to appear saggy.
6. Let Them Run Free
Heading out for a jog or hitting the gym without a sports bra, even for the most diminutive of ladies, can cause our girls to bounce around and form scar tissue on top of just being seriously painful for some.
7. Sleep Face Down
While this doesn't make your breast shrink as rumors have claimed, the overnight pressure can still alter their shape over time. Grab a pillow to prop them up, or sleep on your side instead.
8. Let Them Dry Out
Breasts have extremely thin skin, which can be prone to loss of elasticity and itchy flakes. Remember to moisturize regularly with firming cream or lotion, preferably something with UV protection as well.
9. Judge One Side More Harshly
You might be disappointed in the slightly smaller size of your right side and frustrated that they can't just work together to look normal. The fact is that, statistically speaking, having one bigger than the other (usually the left) is one of the most common things females across the world share in common, so there's no need to go rushing off to a plastic surgeon for a few ounces of difference.
Did we miss any important boob bad habits? Let us know below and be sure to SHARE with your friends!
*Disclaimer: The advice on LittleThings.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
