If you’re suffering from the sudden appearance of bumps on the penis, you are not alone. Odd discolorations and skin abnormalities can pop up for a variety of reasons, some less serious than others. Whilea skin bumps or sore in the genital regioncan be a sign of a sexually transmitted disease,in most cases, the cause is more straightforward. Here are some of the more common reason that men may develop bumps on the junk.

1) Hygiene-related issues -- especially with uncircumcised men. Sometimes, this is due to not bathing enough, resulting in bumpy skin rashes, itching, and foul odors. On the other hand, there can also be too much of a good thing. Over-washing or vigorous scrubbing can also cause dryness and rash and can even trigger eczema outbreaks. Gentle washing with warm water and a mild cleanser is recommended to avoid this issue.

2) Genital warts – these unsightly bumps can have a hard, rough surface and can appear in groups or clusters. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are easily passed on by sexual partners. Most men and women will come in contact with HPV, although not all will exhibit symptoms; but they can pass on the virus even when no warts are present. Getting the HPV vaccine (usually first administered at the age of 12) is a great way to prevent HPV.

3) Fordyce spots -- these pesky little spots on your penis that are often white or yellow in color. These spots are tiny sebaceous glands that are also located around the mouth. They are harmless, they cannot be passed on to a partner, and there is no need for medical treatment.

4) Pearly papules -- these small, milky colored bumps may occur in a ring around the crown of the penis, and they are a normal variation of the penile skin. They are not harmful, and they cannot be passed on to a partner. However, because they are not always seen as cosmetically pleasing, many men seek cosmetic procedures to remove them.

5) Folliculitis – this is an infection of the hair follicles, and it is common in both men and women. They typically occur around the base of the penis; they appear as red, swollen bumps and can cause mild pain. The most common cause is shaving, as this can irritate the follicles. Shaving in the direction of hair growth and following up with a moisturizer can help reduce their occurrence.

While some causes of penis bumps warrant medical attention, others can be eliminated or avoided altogether through proper care of the area. This starts with daily washing, as well as keeping the area cool, dry and well-moisturized. After a shower or bath, dry the skin gently, and then moisturize with a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin). This particular health crème is a super weapon, containing vitamins and nutrients essential to the wellbeing of private area skin, like vitamin C, for collagen production, and Shea butter, which hydrates the skin leaving the area soft and smooth. Keep the penis skin clean, dry, and hydrated for optimal health.