Rashes can be scary and uncomfortable on any part of the body, but getting rashes in your private part, such as the penis, can especially be excruciating. Not only can it be doubly embarrassing to see red and swollen areas around the penis, but it can also cause itchiness or pain.
It is completely normal to feel worried about the cause behind the phenomena or its treatment. Your next question would be on how you can quickly deal with it and prevent the occurrence of rashes on penis in the future.
What Are Rashes on Penis?
A rash, also called dermatitis, presents itself as an area of irritated or swollen skin. Rashes generally cause itchiness, pain and redness in the affected area. These skin aberrations can develop anywhere in the body, including the penis. Rashes can also be a symptom of various medical problems that may need professional medical consultation depending on the severity of the rash.
What Does a Penis Rash Look Like?
A rash can present itself in different forms. Generally, rashes on penis cause the affected area to look swollen and red. They can appear as a patch or red dots, causing the genital area to become red, tight and irritated.
Such a red rash on penis can further cause dryness and flakiness of the skin, pain and itchiness. You must consult a doctor if your rashes are causing you discomfort. They will examine the affected area to determine the type of rash and the cause behind the same.
Why Do I Have a Rash on My Penis?
There can be many reasons for the development of rashes on penis. Some of them are:
1. Sexually Transmitted Diseases
One of the most common STIs that can cause rashes on penis is genital herpes. These lesions are raised, painful and irritated and may look like blisters that leak fluid.
A penis rash can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as genital warts that are painless lumps or swollen areas around the penis or anus. These are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and result in smooth, pearly or cauliflower-shaped clusters. These lesions can be pink-white, brown or grey-white in colour. Your doctor can provide you with medications and other treatments to help manage genital warts. However, a surgery may be needed to remove the same in some cases.
Scabies is another kind of STI that can result in penis skin rash. It is caused by tiny mites that burrow under the skin and lay eggs. This results in intense itching and can be extremely contagious. Scabies is treated with medications that kill the mites that cause the infection.
2. Jock Itch
Jock itch results in rashes that cause itchiness in areas such as the penis, thighs and scrotum. It is a fungal infection that can be cured by taking over the counter antifungal medications.
3. Contact Dermatitis
There are several common irritants that can cause allergic reactions if you are sensitive to them. These allergens can include substances such as a new soap, detergent or fabric. Generally, allergy due to contact dermatitis gets resolved after the irritant is removed.
4. Balanitis
A balanitis rash causes the head of the penis to enlarge due to inflammation. It can be caused due to a bacterial, viral or yeast infection. It generally affects men who have an uncircumcised penis and is also common in men with diabetes. It is vital to keep the foreskin clean to prevent the occurrence of a balanitis rash.
5. Drug Reaction
Certain medications or drugs can cause a person to have breakouts in the form of rashes or other skin aberrations. It can also occur in the penile region. This condition is also known as fixed drug eruption.
Also Read: Prone Masturbation: Is It Harmful? Plus Other Related FAQs
Home Remedies for Rashes on Penis
To find relief from rashes on penis, you can use any of the below-mentioned remedies:
- If you are experiencing penis skin rashes due to an allergic reaction, you can opt for over-the-counter cream that contains hydrocortisone.
- Avoid using harsh soaps that can irritate the skin and choose gentle cleansers that contain hydrating substances such as moisturisers.
- Remember to keep your foreskin clean and wash your penis daily while bathing.
- Always change your pants and underwear after coming back from the gym or after having a sweaty day.
- Use oil or lubricant while masturbating since dry masturbation can lead to rashes and irritated skin. You can also use water-based lube for masturbation.
- Stop using the substance immediately if you have started experiencing rashes after switching your detergent or soap.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent rashes or irritation on the penis. It can be embarrassing to talk about your genital area. However, persistent rashes can indicate an infection that needs medical attention. You can expect your doctor to ask about your sexual history. They may also ask about the duration of your rash and whether ejaculation or urination is painful.
Also Read: Whiteheads on Penis: Treatment, Causes & Home Remedies
How to Prevent Rashes on Penis
To prevent penis skin rashes caused by STIs, always use protection during sexual encounters such as condoms and dental dams.
If you have pre-existing conditions such as herpes or scabies, take medications to treat the condition. This will also help prevent the spreading of these infections to your future sexual partners.
For rashes caused by allergic reactions, you can opt for antihistamines that can resolve allergic reactions. Avoid the allergens that lead to rashes.
Keep your penis clean and wash your private parts daily to maintain hygiene and avoid the collection of sweat and dirt in your genital areas.
Summing Up
The best way to avoid rashes on penis in most cases is to maintain personal and sexual hygiene. Rashes caused by STIs can resolve by taking medications and getting treatment at the right time. If you experience rashes that are persistent or are causing you discomfort, you must consult with your doctor.
FAQs
What Causes Rashes on the Male Private Part?
Rashes on penis can be caused by various reasons such as bacterial or viral infections, bad personal hygiene, etc. Penis skin rashes can also be caused by allergic reactions or sexually transmitted infections. This includes infections such as genital herpes, scabies, body lice, etc.
Which Cream Is Best for Rashes in Private Parts?
Creams that contain antifungal medications will work best for rashes caused by fungal infections. Rashes caused by bacterial infections will require antibiotic creams. Antihistamines can resolve allergic reactions. For appropriate diagnosis and resolution of your condition, you must consult a doctor before using any medication.
Will a Rash Go Away on Its Own?
Rashes caused by contact dermatitis tend to resolve on their own after an allergen is removed. However, rashes caused due to STIs or other medical conditions will require medical treatment. You must talk to your doctor if you experience persistent rashes.
