National No Bra Day: 3 Benefits of Not Wearing a Bra

October 10, 2025

By: Truly Beauty

National No Bra Day is a day to raise awareness for breast cancer and support survivors by going braless, while also exploring the potential benefits of not wearing a bra. 

For many survivors, wearing a bra is necessary to hold a prosthesis, making this day a meaningful reminder of strength, resilience, and the importance of early detection.

Many breast cancer survivors use this day to uplift others, share their journeys, and celebrate their bodies after a mastectomy—showing what #NoBraDay is really about. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s also the perfect time to schedule a screening and prioritize your breast health.

What Is National No Bra Day?

National No Bra Day takes place on October 13 during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On this day, women are encouraged to go bra-free for a day to raise awareness about breast health and breast cancer.

The day isn’t just about skipping your bra. It’s about promoting body confidence, supporting survivors, and reminding all women to take care of their health through regular screenings. 

While going braless can feel empowering for some, we understand that wearing a bra is a personal choice and may be necessary for others due to comfort, support, or medical reasons.

3 Benefits of Not Wearing a Bra

According to women’s health experts, there may be some benefits to going braless. 

1. May Improve Blood Circulation

Wearing a tight underwire bra or an ill-fitting wired bra for long hours can restrict blood flow in your chest and shoulders. Over time, this may contribute to back pain, neck pain, or discomfort in your breast tissue.

Some studies suggest going braless may help with circulation and comfort, but it’s ultimately a personal choice.

2. May Refine Muscle Tone

One of the lesser-known benefits of going braless is that it may help strengthen your pectoral muscles and maintain your natural breast shape. Research by Jean-Denis Rouillon suggests that the support of a bra may reduce the engagement of muscles that naturally help lift and support your breasts.

While a well-fitted bra or sports bra is still recommended for high-impact activities, giving your body time without a bra can encourage your muscle tone to work for itself. Over time, this may positively impact breast elasticity and contribute to natural breast shape support.

3. May Improve Skin Health

Wearing a bra all day, especially one with underwire or tight straps, can cause skin irritation, rashes, and overall discomfort. Going braless reduces friction and allows your skin to breathe, improving skin health and comfort.

Many women find that after a long day of wearing a bra, a break at home or during casual activities relieves breast pain and prevents skin irritation in sensitive areas. Opting for breathable fabrics or a light bralette when not fully going braless can also provide support without sacrificing comfort.

How to Take Care of Your Breasts

National No Bra Day is the perfect excuse to drop the straps and give your boobs some extra love.

1. Self-Check

Regularly check your breasts for any unusual changes. You can do this in the shower or in front of a mirror. Look for changes in shape, size, or skin texture, and gently feel for lumps or thickened areas. 

Remember: self-checks are about awareness. They are not a substitute for regular professional exams. Seeing a healthcare provider regularly is the best way to stay on top of your breast health.

2. Pamper

If you want to indulge a little, pamper your boobs with Truly Beauty’s bestselling For Your Boobs Routine. Gently massage the boob serum + whipped butter into your chest to hydrate, smooth, and support elasticity for a firmer, perkier appearance while improving blood circulation. Plus, it smell delicious - a fusion of blackberry and bourbon vanilla.

What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Bra?

While going braless has its benefits, many women still find that wearing a bra offers comfort, support, and confidence in certain situations. The key is choosing what feels best for your body and lifestyle.

1. Supports Breast Tissue and Reduces Pain

A well-fitted bra can help ease back pain, neck pain, and breast pain by evenly distributing the weight of your breast tissue. This is especially helpful for women with larger breasts, as the support of a bra helps reduce strain on your shoulders and spine. Choosing the right bra, whether it’s a sports bra for activity or a soft bralette for everyday comfort, can make all the difference.

2. Helps Maintain Comfort and Movement During Activity

When you’re on the go or working out, a sports bra can provide proper support to your pectoral muscles and minimize movement that may cause discomfort. For lighter days, a breathable, comfortable bra made with soft materials keeps you cool and supported without restriction.

3. Promotes Confidence

Beyond physical support, wearing the right bra can boost your confidence and overall sense of comfort. A well-fitted bra can improve posture, enhance your natural breast shape, and make clothing fit more smoothly. Whether you prefer a push-up, underwire, or bralette, the best bras are the ones that make you feel supported and at ease from morning to end of the day.

How Often Should You Wear a Bra?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some women prefer wearing a bra daily, while others alternate between going braless and wearing comfortable bras or bralettes. Listening to your body is essential. If you experience back pain, neck pain, or breast pain, a supportive bra may be necessary.

How to Find the Right Bra Size

Finding the right bra size can completely change how you feel in your clothes — and in your own skin. An ill-fitting bra can cause discomfort, poor posture, and even back or shoulder pain, while the right one feels almost effortless.

1. Measure Yourself Regularly

Your bra size can change with time, hormones, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy. Use a soft measuring tape to measure around your ribcage (for band size) and the fullest part of your bust (for cup size). Most lingerie stores also offer free professional fittings — take advantage of them!

2. Focus on Fit, Not the Number

Different brands and styles fit differently, so don’t get stuck on the tag. The band should feel snug but not tight, the straps shouldn’t dig into your shoulders, and your breasts should fill the cups comfortably without gaps or spillage.

3. Test for Comfort and Support

Move around, lift your arms, and bend over. If everything stays in place, you’ve found your match. You should feel supported, not squeezed.

What are the Signs that You Need a New Bra?

Even the best bra doesn’t last forever. Over time, fabric stretches, support fades, and your body changes, all of which can affect how your bra fits and feels. Here are a few signs it’s time for a refresh:

1. The Band Feels Loose or Rides Up

If your bra band no longer sits snugly around your ribcage or starts to creep up your back, it’s likely stretched out and no longer providing proper support.

2. The Straps Keep Slipping or Digging In

Straps that constantly slip off your shoulders or leave red marks mean your bra has lost its shape or it’s just not the right fit for your body type.

3. The Cups Don’t Fit Like They Used To

If you notice gaps, wrinkles, or spillage in the cups, your size may have changed. This is totally normal and happens for many reasons, from hormonal shifts to weight fluctuations.

4. You Can’t Remember When You Bought It

Most bras last around 6–12 months with regular wear. If it’s been longer (and it’s looking a little tired), it’s time to treat yourself to a new one that supports and flatters you.

FAQ: National No Bra Day & Boob Health

1. Does going braless cause breast sagging?

Not necessarily. Studies, including research by Jean-Denis Rouillon, suggest that going braless may actually strengthen pectoral muscles and improve natural support. However, factors like age, genetics, and skin elasticity play a larger role in breast sagging than whether you wear a bra or not.

2. Is it healthy to not wear a bra?

There can be health benefits of not wearing a bra, such as improved blood circulation and reduced pressure on your shoulders and back. For some women, going braless can also help prevent breast pain and skin discomfort, especially after a long day of wearing tight underwire bras.

3. Should I wear a bra while sleeping?

It’s a personal choice. Most experts say there’s no medical need to wear a bra at night unless it makes you more comfortable. If you prefer light support, try a soft, breathable bralette instead of a wired bra.

4. How often should I wear a sports bra?

A sports bra is best for workouts or days when you’re more active. It provides proper support to your breast tissue and reduces bounce, helping to prevent discomfort or pain. Just make sure it fits well, as an overly tight bra can restrict blood flow.

5. Should I wear a bra at home while working on my laptop?

It’s totally up to you! If you’re sitting for long periods, comfort is key. Many women prefer to skip the bra or switch to a soft, breathable bralette while working from home. If you have larger breasts or notice back pain or breast pain, a light, comfortable bra with proper support can help ease tension but there’s no rule that says you have to wear one.

6. What’s the best bra for everyday wear?

The best bras are the ones that feel supportive and comfortable. Look for a well-fitted bra with breathable fabric and minimal seams. Bralettes are great for light days, while underwire or push-up styles can offer extra lift when you want it.

National No Bra Day is your reminder to prioritize your health and schedule a breast cancer screening if needed.

Whether you choose to go bra-free, wear a comfortable bralette, or rely on a well-fitted bra, the most important thing is listening to your body and honoring what feels best for you.

Feature photo by Antonius Ferret

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