People in general like to feel that they look good. For men, that desire to present an attractive appearance extends down to their penis as well. While discussions of size frequently dominate when the penis is discussed, other physical factors can also play an important role in a viewer’s impression of the penis’ physical appearance. The condition of the penis skin is especially important in this regard, especially as many partners may look to it for clues to overall penis health. For that reason, it behooves a man to take special care of his delicate penis skin.
Penis Skin Care
What are some of the things a man can do to give his penis skin the care it needs? The following are some ideas that can be helpful.
– Wash it regularly. Just like skin elsewhere on the body, penis skin can get dirty. Because it’s kept tucked away behind (usually) both a pair of underwear and a pair of trousers, it’s not directly exposed to the dirt and grime that, say, one’s hands are exposed to. But the crotch tends to sweat a lot, and that sweat carries bacteria and particles that can damage the skin. In addition, during sex – whether with a partner or with his own hand – a man exposes his penis to other bacteria, particles, dirt, etc. So, washing regularly is essential to good skin care. However, a man needs to be sure to wash with a mild soap. Harsh soaps, such as those with fragrances added, can damage delicate penis skin and may result in allergic reactions, such as rashes or bumps.
– Use proper laundry detergent. By the same token, some laundry detergents may be too harsh for penis skin and may cause rashes or bumps. Choosing a mild detergent, at least for underwear and pants, helps protect penis skin.
– Wear condoms. In addition to creating sexual health issues, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can often lead to penis skin problems, such as warts, bumps, blisters, or rashes. Using a condom when having partner-based sex can help to drastically reduce the chances of acquiring an STI. However, it is important to remember that a very small percentage of men do have an allergy to latex. Those men should utilize non-latex condoms in order to avoid allergic reactions from condom use.
– Avoid jock itch. Jock itch is a very common fungal infection. Although it is not serious, it does live up to its name by causing an itch that is difficult to resist scratching. It also causes a distinctive rash that can be off-putting to partners. Jock itch can be passed on easily from one person to another, either by direct skin contact or by sharing items. So, for example, in the locker room, don’t use the same towel a friend has used. Definitely don’t borrow his underwear (even if freshly laundered). And wear sandals in the locker room, public shower, or sauna – because the same fungus that causes athlete’s foot causes jock itch.
– Moisturize. One of the key components of good penis skin care is proper moisturization. For that reason, men definitely need to apply daily a first-class penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). The best such crème will contain a combination of moisturizers, such as a high-end emollient (like shea butter) and a natural hydrator (like vitamin E). Together, these ingredients create a “moisture lock” to prevent essential oils from being depleted in the penis skin. Ideally, the selected crème will also include a potent antioxidant, such as alpha lipoic acid. This helps to eliminate excess free radicals, which if left unchecked, create oxidative stress that damages and weakens penis skin.
