Peeling Penis Skin – What It Means and How to Treat It

Men’s health specialists often hear from patients with concerns about peeling penis skin. Dry, itchy, flaky skin is unattractive, to say the least, and it can be alarming, especially for men who may have neglected to cover up during a recent encounter. Fortunately, in most cases, there is a simple explanation, and the itching and peeling can be treated easily at home through improved hygiene techniques and ongoing attention to penis care. On the other hand, some men may require more intensive treatment, including prescription medications, so it is best to check with a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Some common causes of dry, peeling penis skin
1) Eczema - Also known as dermatitis, eczema is a superficial inflammation of the skin that is usually caused by an irritant in the immediate environment. It can appear as a raised rash with peeling skin, and it can be moderately to severely itchy. Men who have a rash with peeling skin and an itchy penis may be treated with over-the-counter cortisone creams. As these medications can be damaging to the skin with long-term use, all instructions should be followed for use, and a moisturizer should be applied at the same time.

2) Psoriasis - This chronic condition is an autoimmune disorder in which the body overproduces skin cells, causing rough, reddened skin with flaky, whitish or silvery patches. On the penis, this can appear as dry skin, with a red layer underneath. Psoriasis is generally treated with topical creams.

3) Allergies or intolerances - Skin allergies or intolerances to environmental irritants can result in itchy, peeling skin, as well as redness and rashes. Men who have known allergies should avoid contact with allergens that might trigger a reaction and may use antihistamine creams or moisturizers to deal with any symptoms.

4) Candida (yeast) or other fungal infections - Fungal infections, including yeast infections (thrush), can cause itching, peeling and dryness of the skin, as well as swelling and a thick discharge. Fungal infections generally require treatment with a topical antifungal cream.

5) Balanitis - Swelling of the foreskin, along with itching, redness, soreness and peeling, are often diagnosed as balanitis, an umbrella term for inflammation of the foreskin and glans. This is most often caused by poor hygiene, although skin infections are also indicated by these symptoms. Cleaning the area well, and in some cases applying medicated creams, are generally recommended for treatment.

Checklist for dry penis skin care
Once the source of the problem has been determined, men should follow their physician’s recommendations for care, including using any prescribed medications as directed. In addition, they can support the healing process and improve overall penis health by observing the guidelines here:
1) Keep the skin clean. Skipping a shower once in a while won’t cause much harm, but men who neglect their hygiene on a regular basis are prone to recurring skin infections.
2) Wash with warm, not hot water. Hot water tends to leech oils from the skin, rinsing away the natural lubricants that keep the skin soft and supple.
3) Use sensitive skin cleansers and detergents. Body care and laundry care products often contain harsh soaps or detergents that wash away the oils from the skin, leaving it feeling dry, itchy, tight and uncomfortable. Using hypoallergenic or sensitive skin products can prevent overly dry skin from developing.
4) Drink plenty of water. Adequate hydration starts on the inside; men should follow the 8-glass-a-day rule for smoother, plumper skin.
5) Make use of a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). A top-drawer product made with natural emollients like Shea butter and vitamin E can soothe the skin, lock in moisture and provide a smooth, even, attractive appearance.

Itching, Peeling Penis Skin - Std Or Ordinary Irritation?

At the first sign of peeling penis skin, it is normal for guys to jump to conclusions about their last partner and wonder what kind of disease they may have managed to pick up. A common complaint heard by many men’s health professionals is from men whose penis itches or has a red, scaly appearance. Fortunately, in most cases, this problem can be chalked up to normal irritation or not enough lube during sex. With application of penis vitamins and moisturizers, the skin should quickly return to normal.

Some common penis skin conditions are described here for information; men who have an open sore on their penis or a chronic condition that will not heal with proper hygiene and over the counter remedies should see a doctor for a firm diagnosis and treatment.

1. Yeast infection - One of the most commonly-seen causes of dry, itchy penis skin is nothing more than an ordinary yeast infection - also known as thrush. While it is more often known as a women’s problem, yeast overgrowth can affect everyone, even before they become sexually active. The organism that causes yeast infection - a fungus known as Candida albicans is nearly always present on the skin, but under certain conditions, it can go into a rapid growth phase and cause skin symptoms such as dryness, itching, flaking or peeling, redness, and a whitish discharge.

Yeast infections are not dangerous, but they are highly contagious and can be transferred between sexual partners. Treating them generally consists of applying an over-the-counter antifungal medication such as those used for feminine yeast infections. The best way to control yeast and avoid infection is to keep the penis skin clean, dry and well-moisturized to prevent the yeast from taking hold. Penis vitamins targeting skin health, such as vitamins A, C, and D, may also deter the growth of yeast on the penis skin.

2. Jock itch - Another common fungal infection that often affects the penis and groin area is most often referred to as jock itch. If the penis itches and develops a red, spreading rash that moves outward from a small, centralized point, jock itch could be the problem. This condition can cause severe itching and burning, as well as a scaly appearance at the outer edges of the rash, and it is highly contagious. Sharing towels, clothing or other personal items is a prime way to spread the fungus.

Attention to good hygiene and avoiding the sharing of personal items and clothing will help to prevent the transfer of jock itch. Getting rid of the itchy, scaly rash generally requires an antifungal medication; soothing vitamin crèmes with natural moisturizers may also help to alleviate the itching and discomfort.

3. Psoriasis - Men who have psoriasis elsewhere on their body may also notice signs of it on the penis. Peeling penis skin, a red, scaly appearance and a rash that has a flaky outline could be an indication of psoriasis. Aside from treatment with corticosteroids, many dermatologists recommend vitamin A, or retinol, as an effective treatment. While this condition is not contagious, it can be unattractive and off-putting. Alleviating the symptoms with natural skin care products can help to improve the tone and texture of the skin.

Keeping the penis healthy and supple

Keeping the penis healthy may sound complicated, but proper skin care is easier than it seems. The first step to a healthy penis is to keep it clean - men who are uncircumcised should make a special point to wash under the foreskin. A natural penis vitamin formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing ingredients such as vitamins A, C and D for smooth, supple, responsive skin and natural moisturizers for an even, healthy appearance may improve the overall look and feel of the penis and increase its resistance to minor skin problems.