Dry Penis Skin – Causes, Quick Fixes, and When to Get Help

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Flaky, itchy, dry penis skin is not only uncomfortable and unpleasant to look at; it could be a sign of an underlying health problem. Men who are suffering from dry, flaky penile skin should be aware of the common triggers; many of these are easily addressed by some small changes to the penis care routine, but others may require medical attention. In most cases, there are easy solutions that can restore the skin to its normal, healthy state.

What causes dry penis skin?

- Thrush – one of the most common causes of dry, itchy skin is a condition known as thrush. Thrush is caused by Candida yeast spores, which are always present on the skin and only cause problems when an imbalance in body chemistry triggers a rapid growth phase. Aside from dry patches and itching, thrush may cause swelling, redness, and a whitish, chunky discharge.

Any man can develop a yeast infection like this, and it can generally be treated with over the counter antifungal creams. However, men who have frequent recurrences are advised to talk to their doctor; certain autoimmune disorders, including diabetes, are characterized by frequent yeast infections.

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- Balanitis – Balanitis is an inflammatory condition that generally affects men who are uncircumcised. It mainly occurs as a result of built-up body fluids and dead skin cells underneath the foreskin; bacteria are attracted to this substance and can cause painful swelling, redness, a discharge, and patches of dry skin.

Close attention to hygiene is usually the best solution for balanitis; this means washing carefully underneath the foreskin every day – a gentle touch and a cleanser designed for sensitive skin is best to prevent further irritation and drying.

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- STDs – Numerous STDs are characterized by dry, flaky penile skin, accompanied by symptoms like sores, blisters, discharge, fever, headache, sore throat, and so on. Any man who is sexually active should be tested regularly and use protection for every encounter.

Because the symptoms of STDs are so similar to other penile health conditions, it is best to see a doctor for testing, rather than relying on self-diagnosis. While other dry skin triggers are more common, it is best to be sure to avoid (a) transmitting a disease to a partner and (b) long-term health consequences related to certain infections.

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- Eczema – This condition is characterized by flaky, dry skin that is usually accompanied by red, scaly bumps that may be very itchy. It is usually caused by an irritant – something that has come in contact with the skin and created an immune reaction. Eczema can occur on any part of the penis, including underneath the foreskin.

Treatment usually involves application of a corticosteroid cream to the affected area; men who are concerned about thinning of the penis skin – a common side-effect of steroid creams – should ask their doctors about an alternative.

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- Soaps and detergents – Soaps, cleansers and laundry detergents often contain chemicals that are intended to neutralize grease and oils. Unfortunately, this effect is not limited to external sources; the chemicals also tend to leech natural body oils from the skin, leaving it feeling rough, dry, and uncomfortable.

Men who suffer from dry, tight skin may consider switching to bath and laundry products that are designed for sensitive skin and do not contain harsh detergents.

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- Heat and cold – Both temperature extremes can cause dehydration of the skin; this loss of fluid can, of course, leave the skin feeling parched and roughened. A high-end moisturizer that is tailored for the sensitive penile skin can help reduce loss of moisture and enhance the skin’s natural lubricating qualities.

A quick fix for dryness and itching

Again, men who have frequent issues with dry, itchy skin, or who develop sores, flu-like symptoms, a discharge or other accompanying problems, should seek medical attention and follow their doctor’s recommendations for treatment.

Once a doctor has given the go-ahead, a penile vitamin crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can provide soothing relief for skin that is dry, patchy and itchy. A formula containing ingredients like vitamins A and E may help to minimize the dryness associated with eczema, psoriasis, and other dry penis triggers, while vitamins C and D have healing properties that can speed repair of damaged skin cells. Finally, a natural emollient such as Shea butter can provide deep moisturizing, smoothing away dry patches and leaving the skin soft and supple.