If you’ve had a mammogram screening before, you’ve likely heard the technician tell you not to wear deodorant. But what’s the reason for this rule? Keep reading to learn more, including what not to wear and our recommendations for a smooth exam.
Why Shouldn’t You Wear Deodorant for a Mammogram?
Many deodorants on the market today contain aluminum. While you may not be able to see any particles with the naked eye, the aluminum in your deodorant can show up as tiny white specks on your mammogram and be mistaken for calcifications, which are small deposits of calcium in the breast tissue. Calcifications in the breast are very common and usually benign, meaning there’s nothing to worry about. But sometimes, depending on the shape, size and distribution of the cluster, it could be an early sign of breast cancer developing within a duct. To avoid mistaking deodorant for calcification needing further testing, it’s best not to wear deodorant for your mammogram.
Can I Remove Deodorant Right Before My Screening?
While it’s recommended that you don’t apply anything before your screening, we know that putting on deodorant in the morning is an everyday habit you likely don’t consider. If you forget and wear deodorant on the day of your mammogram, you don’t have to cancel. Thoroughly scrub under your arms and chest with soap and water to ensure you remove all residues. And remember to tell the technician before your screening so they’re aware. They’ll likely give you something to clean your underarms and chest again to be safe. If you’re worried about body odor, you can bring an extra shirt or blouse with you to the exam, and apply deodorant once it’s complete.
What Not to Wear the Day of Your Mammogram
Many people have switched to natural deodorants to avoid applying harmful chemicals to their skin. Although natural deodorants don’t contain aluminum, they can leave residue on your skin, making your results difficult to read. For the clearest reading, it’s best to apply nothing to your underarms or chest 24 hours before your mammogram. We also recommend you don’t wear:
- Antiperspirants
- Clothing with zippers or other metal components
- Creams
- Lotions
- Metallic objects like jewelry
- Powders
Like natural deodorants — antiperspirants, creams, powders and lotions can leave residue on your skin and make it difficult to read your results. Likewise, metal objects and jewelry can appear in your results and even cast shadows on the images, interfering with the results.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Mammogram
During your mammogram, you only have to undress to your waist. We recommend wearing a two-piece outfit like pants and a shirt. Doing so helps the process run smoothly and is more comfortable for most patients. We also suggest that you try to schedule your screening 10 to 14 days after the start of your menstrual cycle, when your breasts are less tender. It’s also best to avoid caffeine leading up to your mammogram because it can cause your breasts to become more tender.
Preventive Health Care Made Simple
At AdventHealth, we’re committed to making it easy for you to schedule your mammograms and practice preventive health care. You deserve access to expert screenings to catch conditions in their earliest stages and for your peace of mind.
Visit us here to schedule your mammogram screening. Your health is our priority.
