Eczema on the Penis: Triggers and How to Avoid Them

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.

Dry Penis Skin - Could it be Eczema?

As anyone who suffers from eczema can relate, this chronic skin condition can be uncomfortable or even painful and often causes a great deal of social embarrassment. For men who experience symptoms on their penis, these issues can become even more problematic, especially as the reddened, dry penis skin and accompanying rash can resemble signs of a sexually transmitted infection. Fortunately, with the right approach to penis care, men can control the worst of the symptoms. Read on for more about what causes eczema on the penis and what to do about it.

What causes eczema?
The term eczema is often used as an umbrella term to refer to any superficial inflammatory skin condition. In this case, eczema refers to a chronic condition that begins in childhood and often continues into adulthood. It is not certain what causes the condition, but it is often inherited, and it generally occurs when the skin comes in contact with an allergen. Men who have eczema on other parts of their bodies may also develop eczema on the penis.

Symptoms of eczema
Eczema on the penis is similar to that on the rest of the body. Symptoms may include extremely dry penis skin, itching, rash, and small pustules that may weep and crust. Rough bumps or leathery skin may develop, and permanent itching may occur. In some cases, changes in pigmentation may also develop.

Eczema triggers
Every individual differs in what sets off their symptoms, but some common triggers include the following:
- Irritants such as soaps, detergents, fragrances, and disinfectants;

- Food items such as eggs, dairy, nuts, soy and wheat;
- Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, viruses, bacteria, and fungi;
- Hot weather, high humidity, low humidity, and perspiration from exercise;
- Stress - although stress does not cause the symptoms of eczema, it can make them worse.

Men who are suffering from dry penis skin symptoms and suspect they may have eczema should work with their doctors to identify the triggers; this may involve a skin patch test often used for identifying the cause of allergic reactions. Determining what triggers the symptoms is important so that they can be avoided and so that appropriate steps for treatment can be taken.

Treating eczema symptoms
Prescription-strength cortisone creams are often used in treating the itching and inflammation associated with eczema. These medications should only be used on the penile skin under the supervision of a doctor, and only in the recommended amounts. Improper use is associated with numerous side effects, including further irritation and drying, the appearance of stretch marks, and thinning, waxy-looking skin.

In addition to treatments recommended by a doctor, the following home remedies may also help to relieve the most uncomfortable symptoms:

1) Keep the area clean and dry. Gentle cleansing of the area is important to remove dead skin cells, built-up body fluids, and any potential irritants. The skin should be patted dry after washing - vigorous rubbing should be avoided.

2) Avoid tight clothing and synthetic fabrics. Breathable cotton that is not too loose and not too tight is best to avoid rubbing and chafing.

3) Don’t scratch or rub at the area.

4) Avoid products with fragrances, which may further irritate the skin.

5) Try colloidal oatmeal baths to relieve itching and discomfort.

6) Avoid sexual contact during an outbreak.

7) Apply a moisturizing crème after bathing. A penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing natural emollients such as Shea butter can be especially helpful for dry penis skin caused by eczema, as these products are specifically designed for the penile skin.
All of these self-care tips may help, but men should always follow the advice of their doctor and should not undertake any treatment or stop use of a prescribed medication without the recommendation of a qualified health care professional.