A red penis is generally not a happy penis. When the penis isn’t erect, penile redness can be quite painful. In addition to discoloration and pain, this delicate skin can be sore to the touch or inflamed or swollen; or rash, patches, or sores may appear, making matters worse. Some causes of penile redness are common and easily fixed. However, there are some serious medical issues that are linked to having a red penis. The following are a few of the most common causes of penile redness and suggested treatments.
1) Penile Irritation – Irritation can come from a number of different sources. Redness may be accompanied by itching. If that’s all it is, a red penis may just be irritated. Maybe it’s new underwear, laundry detergent, or body wash that’s causing an issue. To clear things up, clean the penis gently with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use soap or scrub the tender skin. Moisturize, but only with natural products or creams specially formulated to be used on the penis as perfumes and other ingredients can make the irritation worse.
2) Jock Itch – Caused by fungus with the fancy Latin name, tinea cruris, jock itch is a malady that men commonly face. Jock itch takes up residence in warm, moist, dark places, so the penis is an ideal place for this fungus to call home. Jock itch usually manifests as a red, spreading rash with bumps and can be very itchy. To evict this fungus from the premises, pick up an anti-fungal crème for jock itch at the pharmacy. Also, be sure to wear breathable, cotton underwear so that the area stays clean and dry.
3) Overuse – Sometimes simple overuse, excessive sex or self-pleasure, can cause a red penis. This can also cause chaffing and irritation. First and foremost, take a knee and resist sexual activity until the penis is back to normal. Use a cool compress to soothe the penile redness and a penis health crème to balance the skin. Also, in the future, be sure to use a personal lubricant for vigorous sex and masturbation.
4) Balanitis – Balanitis is an inflammation affecting the penis head and foreskin that overwhelmingly affects uncircumcised men. Generally, it occurs when there’s a build-up of smegma under the foreskin. Smegma, which is a combination of dead skin cells, body oils, and bacteria that makes a smelly off-white paste, attracts bacteria that attacks the delicate penis skin. The best way to treat and prevent balanitis is regular and thorough cleaning of the penis daily with a gentle cleanser. If the issue is far-gone, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics to clear up any infections.
5) Psoriasis or eczema – Men who already have psoriasis or eczema on other parts of their bodies may also develop symptoms on the penis. Treating the affected area with vitamins A and E is sometimes helpful.
6) Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Here’s the scarier part. A red penis can also be a symptom of a STI. Many STIs cause penile redness, rash, blisters and flaky skin. STIs associated with penile redness include genital herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital warts, and syphilis. Men who believe they may have contracted a STI should see their doctor immediately for testing and avoid any sexual contact until the results of the test are known. Once diagnosed, a doctor will prescribe any medications or antibiotics to treat the area. However, genital herpes cannot be cured.
7) Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Groin – This is a potentially life-threatening skin condition caused by the infection of an injury. This is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, fever, and chills. Left untreated, it will spread to other parts of the body, discoloring the skin and degrading body tissue. This can cause muscle, tissue, and loss of limb. Men who believe they have this condition should go the emergency room immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
Prevent Penile Redness
Preventing red penis is pretty easy. Simply clean regularly and thoroughly with a mild cleanser and soft cloth. Keep the groin area dry and air it out frequently.
It’s also a good idea to regularly moisturize the delicate penis area with a specially formulated penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) . These cremes are nutrient-rich and contain vitamins like A, C, D, and E with have properties especially beneficial for penile health and healing. The crème should be a natural moisturizer, like Shea butter, which leaves this delicate skin completely hydrated and smooth.