Ten Common Causes of Dry Peeling Skin on the Penis and How to Treat Them

No man in the history of the world ever looked down and marveled at dry peeling skin on the penis in a good way. Oftentimes, dry penile skin causes anxiety and confusion. It hurts, it's red, and it's flaky. It catches on fabric, causing unbearable pain, and it definitely isn't something a man wants to show a lover. Thankfully, most causes of dryness and peeling are fairly normal and easy to remedy. Here are a few of the most reported issues and how to treat them.

1) Drying or Chemical-laden Soaps – Dry penile skin can be the result of using harsh soaps which strip the skin of their natural moisture. Harsh soaps containing ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfates (SLS), lye, polypropylene, and triclosan and should complete avoided. Use all-natural products or products formulated for babies when washing delicate penile skin.

2) Allergies -- Allergies to creams, condoms, spermicide, laundry detergents, certain fabrics, or other personal care products have been shown to cause dry peeling skin on the penis. Other associated symptoms of allergy include sneezing, a runny nose, wheezing, and watery eyes.

3) Chaffing – Too tight pants, underwear, or shorts can cause chaffing of the penile skin, leading to a rash and dry peeling skin on the penis. Air things out when at home via Donald Duck, that is to say, without pants. When leaving the house, wear loose, breathable fabrics to help the area heal.

4) Balanitis – More common in uncircumcised men, balanitis is a bacterial overgrowth caused either by not cleaning the head of the penis well or with frequency, or not properly rinsing off harsh soaps or cleaning agents. Treatment can include antibiotics, an antifungal cream, a steroid cream or a combination of all the above.

5) Candida – Yeast infections, also called Candida, can cause dry penile skin and also cause a rash, inflammation on the head of the penis, chunky discharge under the foreskin, and white patches on the skin. This infection makes it quite painful to have sex or urinate. Use an over-the-counter anti-fungal cream on the head of the penis (and under the foreskin if uncircumcised) until symptoms are gone. Also, abstain from masturbation and sex until the infection is completely gone. By the way, yeast infections are transmittable, so be sure to tell a partner.

6) Eczema – Eczema is a skin disease where the skin is dry, inflamed, or irritated. If it is on the penis, it’s likely it’s on other places on the body as well. Treat the area with an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream as directed by a pharmacist or doctor. Be sure to moisturize the area daily and after any contact with water to minimize additional drying.

7) Dermatitis – Dermatitis is a skin sensitivity to something in a man’s environment which causes the skin to become angry, itchy, and dry. Avoid known irritants to avoid these issues and use a soothing cream when irritation does flare up to calm the skin and return it to normal.

8) Psoriasis – Psoriasis is a skin disease which causes red, scaly patches on the skin. See a doctor or dermatologist for diagnosis and a cortisone cream to treat the area.

9) Dry Sex or Masturbation – Excessive and sustained sexual activity without suitable lubrication can cause dry peeling skin on the penis. Prevent this from occurring by using a water-based lubricant and give the penis cool-down time to rest and repair between sessions.

10) Syphilis – Saving the worst for last, the second stage of syphilis is often accompanied by grey-to-white rashes and dry spots on the groin. See a medical provider immediately as syphilis can be deadly.

Stop Dry Peeling Skin on the Penis with Good Hygiene Habits

No matter what a man does, good genital grooming can take penis health a long way. Thoroughly cleanse the penis every day using gentle pressure and a gentle cleanser. Moisturize the penis frequently to keep it smooth and supple. Keep the genital area dry and wear breathable fabrics which discourage moisture and bacteria and opt for looser pants or properly fitted pants in lieu of tight trousers to avoid chaffing and skin irritation.

When it comes to conditioning delicate penis skin, a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) should be used. Chock-full of nutrients, vitamins, and emollients, these specialty creams that are made explicitly for the penis. Look for ingredients like vitamins A, C, D, and E, which are well-known for their skin-soothing and revitalizing properties. Be sure to purchase a product which contains natural moisturizers such as Shea butter, which repairs dry peeling skin on the penis and returns it to its smooth state.