Eczema on the areola or nipple is a common concern for breastfeeding women. The nipples may become dry or cracked. The sores can be painful, especially while breastfeeding. Eczema on the areola is most often found in women who are breastfeeding or pregnant, though it may affect others as well.

Pain during breastfeeding is a common reason why women stop breastfeeding. Eczema on the areola usually occurs five or six months after a breastfeeding mother has given birth. Teething of the infant is often a factor causing or worsening this condition. Eczema on the nipples may also appear after the infant has been introduced to solid foods.

Areola eczema is a term used for eczema on the areola. Early treatment and preventative measures can help avoid this condition or prevent it from becoming worse. A breastfeeding mother should not use soaps or shampoo on her nipples. Bathing or showering in hot water should be avoided. Soaps and hot water can dry out the skin of the nipples and make them susceptible to eczema.

A woman who is breastfeeding should make sure she showers after swimming. A nursing mother should avoid using products on her nipples except for a purified lanolin product designed for nipple care while breastfeeding. Topical corticosteroid ointment may be applied sparingly to the areola eczema. The ointment should be applied immediately following breastfeeding so that it is likely to be completely absorbed before the next time the baby needs nursed.

Eczema can become infected. If areola eczema becomes infected, the person may need to take an antibiotic in addition to topical corticosteroid ointment. Continuing to keep the skin of the areola well moisturized after eczema has been treated may help reduce the risk of future flare-ups of eczema on the nipples. Women who are nursing should continue to avoid soap and hot water even after the areola eczema has been successfully treated.

Women with changes to their breasts may be fearful of cancer. There is a type of cancer that can appear similar to areola eczema. However, the progression of the rash is different. In areola eczema, the rash or irritation begins on the areola and may progress to the nipples. In the cancer that may look like areola eczema, known as Paget’s disease of the nipple, the rash begins on the nipple then may move to the areola. This is a rare type of cancer. If a woman is breastfeeding or pregnant and is experiencing irritation of the areola or nipples, chances are it is areola eczema. If concerned, the woman should consult a doctor.