Dry Skin On Penis – Causes and Treatments

Dry skin on penis or a dry foreskin is a common condition that affects several men at some point in their life. Dry penile skin can be caused by various reasons.

While in some cases, it can result from using dry soaps or not using enough lubrication during sex, in some other cases, it can also be a symptom of a skin condition or infection, which is commonly known as Penis Eczema. 

However, in most cases, dry skin on penis is nothing to worry about. Dry penis is usually not a symptom of any sexually transmitted infections and, in most cases, can be easily treatable through either medications or surgical procedures such as circumcision. 

Given below are some symptoms that usually come in conjunction with a dry penis. If any of the below-given symptoms seem familiar, this blog may help you not only manage symptoms of a dry penis but also learn how to treat dry skin on penis and names of some of the best creams for dry, cracked foreskin.

Some symptoms of a dry penis include:

• Dry foreskin
• Itching or peeling skin under the foreskin
• Dry, flaky skin on the male pubic area
• Fine lines on the penile skin
• Cracks on the skin that may bleed

What are the causes of dry skin on penis?

There are various reasons that may cause dry skin on your penis. While most of them can be treated through simple changes in your lifestyle, some may require medications or surgery for treatment. Some of the most causes of dry penis include:

• Yeast infection: A male yeast infection (sometimes called candida balanitis) is a fungal infection that is caused by a yeast called candida. In addition to dry skin on penis, a yeast infection may also cause other symptoms as well.
• Balanitis: Balanitis is pain or inflammation caused in the penile glans that is generally caused by viral, bacterial or in some cases, yeast infection. There are various treatments for balanitis, and most cases can be treated with antifungal creams and antibiotics. Recurrent cases, however, may require more invasive procedures such as circumcision.
• Allergy: Allergic reaction caused by latex, spermicide, personal deodorant, or fragrance may lead to dry skin on penis and a dry foreskin. Other possible symptoms of an allergic reaction may include sneezing, wheezing, runny nose or watery eyes. 
• Dry masturbation or sex: A lack of lubrication when engaging in sexual activities or masturbation may also lead to dry skin on penis. Use of a water-based, oil-based or silicone-based lubricant during intercourse or masturbation can not only help you avoid dry penis and dry foreskin but also make the experience more pleasurable and comfortable.
• Tight clothing or chafing: Tight underwear or pants constantly rub against the skin on the head of the penis and may also lead to a dry skin penis. In some cases, it may also cause excess build-up of sweat and other fluids under the foreskin, which in turn can become a breeding ground for fungal infections.
• Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes rash with scaly, itchy patches. Psoriasis that affects the penis is called inverse psoriasis and can cause dry foreskin, formation of reddish lesions on the penis and red patches on the glans.

How to treat dry skin on penis?

There are various methods of effectively treating dry skin penis. As mentioned before, dry penis can generally be treated through topical medications, antibiotics or simple changes in lifestyle.

If these non-surgical treatments fail to show any significant results however, you may require more invasive surgical treatments such as circumcision. Such cases though, are very rare. 

Some easy to follow tips and guidelines that your urologist may suggest to treat dry skin penis are given below:

• Avoid application of harsh soaps or bathing gel on the penis when taking a shower or a bath. Instead, use gentle soaps that contain an emollient or moisturizer.
• Shower or bathe in warm water. Avoid hot water as much as you can.
• Keep your penile area clean and moisturized. 
• Use adequate lubricant when engaging in sexual intercourse or masturbation.
• Avoid wearing tight underwear and pants. Use comfortable underwear that provides adequate support to your penis.
• Maintain good penile hygiene. Make sure to wash under your foreskin regularly under your foreskin to prevent excess build-up of bacteria or smegma. 

Alongside, if you are also struggling with dry foreskin, your healthcare provider may prescribe some ointments for relief as well.

Some of the most commonly prescribed and best cream for dry, cracked foreskin include brand names such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment, CeraVe Healing Ointment, Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream, Vanicream Moisturizing skin cream etc. 

When should you consult a doctor for dry penis skin?

If you start noticing symptoms such as cracking or dry, flaky skin on the male pubic area, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Timely consultation for dry penis or a dry foreskin can help you avoid any future penile problems or complications that require more complex treatments. Alongside, if you experience any of the below given symptoms, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider:

• Pain during urination
• Discharge from the penis glans
• Home remedies that are ineffective
• Persistent pain or inflammation that worsens overtime
• Dry, flaky skin on male pubic area 

Conclusion

Dry skin on penis is a common condition that is generally not considered to be dangerous. Most cases can be easily treated through antifungal ointments, medications or changes in lifestyle.

However, cases of dry skin penis that occur due to underlying foreskin issues such as phimosis or balanitis may also require more invasive methods of treatment such as circumcision.

Read More – Difference between phimosis and paraphimosis

Prior to your treatment, your urologist will likely perform a series of simple tests and diagnostics to assess not only the severity but also the reason behind your condition. This will help him or her, recommend a suitable method of treatment to you. 

Talking about genital problems can be difficult and not only do you need someone who understands your condition but is also capable of providing effective treatments for it.

If you are struggling with dry skin penis, a dry foreskin or any underlying urological issue that may be causing your symptoms to recur, you can book an appointment with our highly qualified and experienced team of urologists for consultation.