Most causes of penis rash are fairly benign, but that doesn’t eliminate the embarrassment and discomfort that can occur when a man has a red, spotted, itchy member. Fortunately, attention to penis hygiene and care is often all that is needed to restore the skin to its former smooth, healthy appearance. Some simple steps for maintain clear, clean skin are described below, following a description of some common causes of rash on the penis.
Possible causes of penis rash:
Inadequate hygiene. It’s no secret that skin that is not kept clean is more prone to problems like rashes and infection, and the same thing applies to the penis as to the rest of the body. Unfortunately, a surprising number of men seem to skip on this aspect of their person care, and poor hygiene is reported as a frequent cause of many common penile issues.
– Heat. Heat rash is a common problem during the warmer months of the year, and it is especially prevalent on parts of the body that rub together (like the knees, elbows, groin and so on). Sweat, combined with friction, is irritating to the skin and can lead to red, itchy eruptions. Generally, these fade when the skin is exposed to the air and allowed to breathe.
– Dermatitis. Dermatitis, also known as eczema, occurs when the body’s immune system responds to an environmental trigger and produces a histamine response. This can result in a red, extremely itchy rash that can be difficult to manage. Men who have problems with eczema elsewhere on the body may also experience eruptions on their penile skin.
– Allergic reactions. Other types of skin allergies can also cause a rash on the penis, including latex sensitivities and hay fever. Individuals with a personal or family history of allergies may be more likely to have problems in this area.
– Fungal infections. Everyone has colonies of fungal spores living on their skin, and in general, these are not harmless and have no visible effect. Occasionally, changes in body chemistry can trigger an overgrowth phase in these organisms, leading to a red, itchy rash and inflammation.
6 steps to eliminating the rash and keeping the skin clear and smooth
Avoiding rashes that are related to underlying skin conditions or the occasional infection is not always possible, especially in individuals with underlying conditions. However, these practical steps can help reduce the risk of developing common skin problems.
1) Eliminate potential allergens. Men who have known skin sensitivities should steer clear of any materials or substances that have triggered a reaction in the past, and all men should avoid contact with itch-inducing plants, grasses and other environmental irritants. For men who use latex condoms, it is worth checking to determine whether a latex allergy is to blame, since even those who have used latex in the past without problems can develop a sensitivity.
2) Keep it clean. Skin that is unwashed and coated with sweat, grime, and other dried-on body fluids is much more prone to rashes, not to mention infection. A simple wash, at least once a day, is a must to maintain the integrity of the dermal tissue.
3) Wear natural fabrics that allow for circulation. To reduce the risk of heat rash, men should opt for comfortable, breathable fabrics like cotton, especially during the hotter months of the year. Clothes should also be washed frequently, especially those that are worn directly against the skin. A sensitive skin detergent may be a good choice for men with frequent skin issues.
4) Don’t share towels and other personal items. Sharing towels, razors, clothing and so forth is not recommended for anyone; these items often harbor fungal spores like tinea cruris, which causes the red, spreading, itchy rash known as jock itch.
5) Use protection. Barrier protection during sex is critical for a variety of reasons; in terms of penis rash, a condom can reduce the chances of contracting thrush or other infections from a partner.
6) Use a penis health formula. Specialized personal care products such as a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) often contain ingredients that are soothing and nourishing, without the fragrances and other additives that are common in lotions intended for general use. Nutrient-based formulas containing vitamins like A, C and D can support healing and healthy tissue function, while emollients like Shea butter and vitamin E also speed healing and boost hydration. Adding a cream like this to the daily care routine may reduce the occurrence of uncomfortable skin conditions and improve overall penile health.
