When a penis itches, it is not fun. It can also happen at the most inopportune times: while talking to a colleague at work, in line at the grocery store, or during a critical moment during a big date. Dry, itchy skin on the penis can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, and annoying, and it can make a man run for the door just to get some relief in private. Unfortunately, an itchy penis will not be satisfied with a simple rub or scratch. Most of the time, a man needs to pay more attention to get rid of the itch, as well as continued care to prevent it from coming back. The following are some of the possible reasons why the penis itches and how to get relief.
1) Lax hygiene – A dirty penis is an itchy penis. Think of all the dirt, debris, bacteria, sweat, and emissions that can accumulate in the genital region. If a man does not wash thoroughly and regularly, it can not only get bad, but it can also become red and itchy.
2) Contact dermatitis – Direct contact with an allergen or irritant can cause itching. Things like detergents, soaps, latex, and medications can cause a reaction. Most of the time, the itching is also accompanied by a rash. If the itching is mild, washing the area and treating it with a cortisone cream can help. If it is more serious, seek medical attention.
3) Yeast infection or “candidiasis” – Men are as likely as women to develop Candida yeast infection. Candida usually occurs on the skin and mucous membranes; however, when it grows too large, it can cause symptoms such as itching, a rash, swelling, and white, lumpy discharge. While it is not a sexually transmitted disease, it can be transmitted during intimate contact. What causes yeast infections most of the time is overuse of antibiotics, diabetes, poor circulation, and immunosuppression. Consult a doctor for treatment.
4) Psoriasis or eczema – Men who have psoriasis or eczema in other parts of the body can also develop skin problems on the penis. Consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment. Some creams with vitamins A and E have also been shown to help reduce itching.
5) Genital warts – This is a sexually transmitted disease (STI) caused by a viral infection. Warts usually appear on the glans, foreskin, shaft, and the entire pubic area. Warts can also have an itchy discharge from the penis. See a doctor immediately for tests and treatment.
6) Pubic lice – Commonly known as “crabs,” pubic lice are tiny parasites that attach to pubic hair. They are transmitted by intimate contact with an infected person. While itching is the main symptom, other symptoms include blood spots and blackheads, which are the remaining “crab” feces. For immediate relief, see a doctor, or if one isn’t available, use an over-the-counter lotion or lice shampoo in the meantime.
Get relief from itchy penis
Regardless of the cause of the problem, it is always a bad idea to scratch the delicate skin of the penis. By scratching, one can leave tiny tears on the outer dermal layer, which can exacerbate the problem and invite bacteria and other organisms to enter the skin.
Instead of itchiness, men with itchy penis should wash the area gently to remove any substances that may be causing irritation. Make sure to clean with a mild cleanser like baby soap and rinse well with warm water. Resist using your regular soap or body wash on the irritated area, as it can be too sensitive and cause more damage.
After cleansing the skin, apply a specially formulated penis health cream. (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically shown to be safe and gentle on the skin) to the penis. These nutrient-rich creams have a natural base, like shea butter, that hydrates and soothes itchy skin on contact. The addition of vitamins such as A, B5, C, D and E also provide rejuvenating and restorative properties to the delicate skin of the penis, leaving it soft, free of irritation and less prone to drying and itching in the future.