It happens to everyone and can make for a very unpleasant day. Dryness and itching on penis skin are always unwanted. While dry and itchy skin can happen for environmental reasons, eczema is used to describe a group of inflammatory skin conditions that can affect the genital area. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including skin dryness, scaly skin, bumpy skin, red rash or even patches of discolored skin. All of these symptoms may point to eczema on the penis.

What is Eczema?

Eczema, also referred to as Atopic dermatitis, is caused by inflammation. It usually develops in early childhood and is more common in people with a family history of eczema.  It is more likely to occur in those with asthma and allergies. Sometimes, those with eczema don’t have any itching reaction or symptoms. Interestingly, eczema can lay dormant and then come alive by a trigger. Some recommend keeping a symptom journal as to track your symptoms and potentially identify any triggers that are causing your eczema to flare up. 

What Can Trigger an Outbreak?

Certain triggers of eczema are surprising and may lead you to consider your environment: Scratchy clothing fabric (like wool, polyester, spandex, rayon, acrylic or nylon) can set off an outbreak, Other common causes of eczema are soaps, laundry detergents and household cleaning products. The harsh chemicals in the products can cause dryness and irritation in the skin. Make sure you’re buying only hypoallergenic products and the irritation may cease. Certain fruit juices can also be a common trigger, as can a simple cold, cough or the flu. Weakened immune systems are the perfect breeding ground for eczema to set up camp.

Other triggers that are a bit less common are still possible, including antibacterial substances in ointments, wet wipes or even some kinds of toilet paper. Cigarette smoke, certain metals and even dust can set off symptoms, as well.

Eczema on the Penis

One thing to note about penis eczema is that it is not partner-transmitted. You cannot give someone eczema during intimate acts. However, intimacy may be uncomfortable and unpleasant for both you and your partner if you are experiencing an eczema flare-up. It's best to maintain pristine hydration and hygiene, if you’re going to avoid itching on penis skin or any sort of irritation.

When dealing with any member irritation issue, always consider your condom choice as well, when determining the cause of your penis irritation. Try using hypoallergenic condoms to combat any sort of irritation that may come from the latex or spermicides.

In order to keep your genitals clean, you need to properly clean your foreskin by pulling it back and thoroughly cleaning the tip of your member as well After correctly washing the genital area, dry and moisturize your skin with a product made specifically for skin, like a penis health creme (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.