The skin on a person’s penis is susceptible, and dry skin can be irritating. Dry skin on the penis can occur for various causes, including unlubricated intercourse or masturbation, chafing clothing, and the use of harsh soaps.
Dry skin on the penis is seldom an indication of a sexually transmitted disease on its own. The majority of cases with dry penis skin react nicely to therapy. Using a natural moisturizer or avoiding harsh soaps are common home treatments that help to cure the problem.
The reasons for dry skin on the penis are discussed in this article. It also outlines treatment options for each cause and possible home cures.
Contents
8 Reasons For Dry Skin On The Penis
1. Unlubricated Masturbation Or Sex
Friction can be caused by having sex or masturbating for an extended period without lubrication.
The skin might get dry if there is too much friction. Also, when a person has sex or masturbates, lubricant might help them feel more comfortable.
Avoid lubricants that contain glycerin or parabens, as these might exacerbate dryness in the penis.
Using a water-based lubricant will help prevent further inflammation of the penile skin.
2. Tight Underwear Or Chafing
When tight clothing is worn around the genital area all the time, it might chafe or press against the skin, causing dryness. Tight underwear can also cause a buildup of moisture under your foreskin, fostering the growth of fungus and raising the risk of infection.
Wear looser clothing made of light, breathable fabrics, and soft, supportive cotton undergarments.
3. Latex Intolerance
Latex condoms may cause dry skin on the penis if a person is allergic to latex.
Latex is a natural substance that is derived from rubber tree sap. Latex allergy sufferers react to specific proteins found in latex.
An allergic reaction to latex can cause the following symptoms:
- Hives
- Itching
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Chest tightness wheezing
- Breathing problems
When those with a severe latex allergy come into touch with latex, they may undergo anaphylactic shock. Call 911 if someone is suffering from anaphylactic shock. Use an epinephrine (adrenaline) auto-injector if the person has one.
People with latex allergies should use non-latex condoms to avoid dry skin on the penis and allergic symptoms. Polyurethane or natural membranes derived from lamb’s intestines are used in non-latex condoms. There are numerous non-latex condoms available for purchase on the internet.
4. Soaps That Dry Out
The skin of the penis may become dry if you use a really harsh detergent or cleanser. Likewise, dry skin on the penis can be caused by harsh chemicals soaps. Warm water and a tiny amount of mild soap are the most acceptable ways to cleanse the penis.
If a person must use ordinary soap in this area, they should choose a soft, natural soap that is free of parabens. Many paraben-free soaps can be purchased online.
5. Detergents
Skin dryness can be caused by certain laundry detergents that contain harsh chemicals. This can happen everywhere on a person’s body, including the penis. Using non-biological, natural laundry detergents can help prevent skin irritation and dryness.
Using a natural moisturizer, such as coconut oil to alleviate inflamed skin can assist.
6. Eczema
It could indicate eczema if dry skin on the penis is accompanied by itching or under-skin pimples. Eczema can be caused by irritation such as those mentioned above. Irritant contact dermatitis is the medical term for this type of eczema.
Atopic eczema and seborrheic dermatitis are two more eczemas that can cause dry skin on the penis.
If a person believes the dry skin on their penis is due to eczema, they should contact a doctor. Eczema can be diagnosed or ruled out by a doctor.
Low-strength topical corticosteroid cream can be used by those who have already been diagnosed with eczema. Applying this to the penile skin with caution may help alleviate symptoms.
Corticosteroid creams must be used according to a doctor’s instructions because they can cause skin thinness. In addition, because the skin on the penis is thin and sensitive, people should use topical treatments with caution.
A natural moisturizer, such as coconut oil can help to alleviate dryness.
7. Psoriasis
Another cause of dry skin on the penis is psoriasis. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that affects men’s genitalia regularly.
Patches of psoriasis on the penis are less scaly than patches on other parts of the body. They may have a crimson ring surrounding them or appear as well-defined, thin white plaques without scales.
If a person notices psoriasis symptoms on their penis, they should contact a doctor. Psoriasis can be diagnosed or ruled out by a doctor.
People diagnosed with psoriasis and have plaques on their penis may be able to treat it with the same corticosteroid cream they use on the rest of their body.
The doctor may prescribe a medium- to high-potency corticosteroid that should be taken at regular intervals. This entails using the cream for four days and then taking a three-day break before applying it again.
Topical vitamin D ointment twice a day is another psoriasis therapy option for the penis.
It is critical to return to the doctor if psoriasis plaques on the penis persist after treatment. Anything more serious can be ruled out by the doctor.
8 Fungal Infection
A rash, swelling, or discharge and dry skin on the penis could indicate a fungal infection.
Jock itch and balanitis are two fungal infections that affect the penis.
A red rash is the result of a jock itch. From the penis, it travels to the inner thighs. A rash around the anus and buttocks is also possible.
Balanitis is an inflammation of the penis tip. The head of a person’s penis may appear red and swollen if they have balanitis. Infectious balanitis is frequently caused by a yeast infection.
Itchy skin can be caused by both jock itch and balanitis. Although studies have yet to demonstrate this as a symptom, a person with a yeast infection may feel tired.
Antifungal creams can be used to treat fungal infections. To avoid them, people should wash and replace their garments regularly. It may also be beneficial to wear loose underwear.
Dry Penis Skin Home Remedies
To provide time for healing, abstain from all sexual activity for at least 24 hours before treating dry skin on the penis. Masturbation is included in this.
Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.
Use items developed for sensitive skin when bathing or showering. For example, you should avoid using soap on your genitals instead of warm water to clean them. If you use soap, make sure to rinse well afterward to get rid of any residues of the substance.
Use a moisturizing penis cream after bathing or showering. Because conventional hand and body lotions may contain chemicals that can cause allergic responses, a cream made specifically for the skin in the penis is recommended. Look for one with Shea butter and vitamin E, as these ingredients may help seal in moisture and prevent dryness.
Read also: 10 Best Moisturiser For Glans
Dry Skin On The Penis And Sex
If a yeast infection is causing dry skin on your penis, you should avoid sexual activity until the infection is gone. This is since yeast infections are contagious, and you could infect your sexual partner.
If the dry skin on your penis isn’t caused by a yeast infection, having intercourse isn’t risky, but it might be painful.
Looking For Assistance
Make an appointment with your doctor if your skin hasn’t improved or is becoming worse after a few days of home treatment. Your doctor will examine your vaginal area and determine whether you have a yeast infection or should be referred to a dermatologist for eczema or psoriasis diagnosis.
Prevention
You can avoid dry skin on your penis by doing the following:
- Instead of soap, bathe the penis with a mild cleaner or only water.
- After you’ve washed your penis, make sure you dry it correctly.
- On the genital area, use lotions formulated for delicate skin.
- On your clothes, use hypoallergenic laundry products.
- Wearing loose clothing and soft, loose-fitting cotton underwear.
- Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- After showers and baths, apply a penis-specific moisturizer.
Summary
Dry skin on the penis isn’t always a symptom of something dangerous. Allergies to chemicals in soap or detergent, excessive friction, psoriasis, or eczema are common causes.
If you have dry skin on your penis and don’t know what’s causing it, you should see a doctor. Likewise, if you have dry skin on your penis and other symptoms, you should consult a doctor.
Dry skin on the penis may usually be treated at home or with over-the-counter topical therapies. Using a natural moisturizer like coconut oil to keep your skin healthy is an easy way to do so.
Making lifestyle adjustments may assist in reducing the recurrence of dry spots on the penis. For example, reduce the use of personal soaps, change the laundry detergent, and use lubricant during sex or masturbation.