Flaky, dry skin on the penis can set off alarms in a man’s mind, causing him to worry that he has contracted an STI or other difficult-to cure disease. However, numerous other conditions, ranging from minor irritation to chronic health issues, can cause the penis to take on a dry, scaly, rough appearance.
Diabetes
Flaky penis skin that does not respond to treatment with ordinary moisturizers may be a warning sign of an underlying health condition such as diabetes. Men with type 2 diabetes are prone to minor skin infections such as thrush, which can cause the appearance of dry dermal tissue, as well as itching, burning, and a whitish, chunky discharge. Men who are overweight are particularly at risk for this autoimmune disorder, but anyone who has recurring dermal infections should consider being tested for insulin resistance.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Flaky skin can be symptomatic of various sexually transmitted diseases, such as herpes and gonorrhoea. Men who are sexually active and who experience unusual signs such as peeling penis skin should abstain from sex until they can see a doctor for testing.
Balanitis
Peeling or flaky skin on the penis, especially around the head, may be the result of a bacterial infection known as balanitis. This common disease generally affects men who are uncircumcised and can present as redness, itching, inflammation, burning and a thick discharge in addition to a dry scaly appearance.
Atopic Dermatitis
This is a condition in which the skin erupts in an allergic reaction. Symptoms can include swelling, redness and dry, scaly or flaky dermal tissue. Allergic skin reactions may be linked to other conditions such as asthma or seasonal allergies. Contact with irritants and chemicals can also lead to irritation and dryness, so for men with sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to choose natural, fragrance-free personal hygiene products.
Phimosis
This is a medical condition in which the foreskin on a man’s penis is so tight that it cannot be pulled back over the head, or glans. Attempting to stretch the skin can cause soreness, irritation, and a cracked or dry appearance. Phimosis is sometimes associated with balanitis. It can occur in younger boys as well as grown men, and it can be treated by stretching the sheath gently over time, using an appropriate moisturizer, or through circumcision.
Caring for dry, flaky penile tissue
Preventing dryness and flaking calls for appropriate penis care and good personal hygiene. Washing regularly and allowing the area to dry thoroughly before dressing can help to reduce the risk of bacterial and yeast infection; and using a penis nutrient cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing natural emollients and other penis-friendly ingredients can help the skin to maintain its natural lubricating properties and ensure smooth, supple tissue that is responsive to tactile stimulation.
