Five Causes of Itchy Penis and How to Get Relief

There's nothing quite like being in a deep conversation with someone and then seeing them scratch their junk. However, penis itches are sometimes necessary, because they can strike at any time and with great intensity. So, what makes a man's penis itch, and how can he prevent it? Here are some common causes of an itchy penis and how to get much-needed relief in those uncomfortable moments when the crotch is creeping.

1) Poor Grooming Habits –Think about all the dirt, debris, bacteria, sweat, and emissions that can collect in the genital region. Now let it all marinate for day or more. If a man isn’t washing thoroughly and regularly, that funk is going to do more than smell. It’s going to get infected, peel the skin, and cause massive itching and pain.

2) Contact Dermatitis – When a man comes in direct contact with an allergen or irritating substance it can cause itching because it activates the histamines in the body. Things like detergents, soaps, latex, and medications can all cause a reaction. Many times, penis itches are additionally accompanied by a rash. If the itch is minor, cleansing the area and treating it with a cortisone crème may help. If it is more serious, seek medical attention.

3) Genital Warts – This is a sexually transmitted disease (STI) caused by a viral infection. Warts often show up on the glans penis, the foreskin, shaft, and entire pubic area. Warts may also have a discharge which causes the penis itches. See a medical professional or clinic ASAP for treatment.

4) Candida – Anyone can get a Candida yeast infection; it’s not just for the ladies. Candida normally occurs in the skin and mucous membranes; however, when it overgrows, it causes uncomfortable and annoying symptoms such as itching, rash, swelling, and lumpy white discharge. While not a sexually transmitted disease, it can be transmitted during intimate contact. What causes thrush most times is overuse of antibiotics, diabetes, poor circulation, and immunosuppression. See a doctor for treatment.

5) Crabby Downunder – Commonly known as “crabs,” pubic lice are tiny little parasites that attach themselves to pubic hair. They are spread by intimate contact with an infected person. While itching is the main symptom, other symptoms include bloodstains and black dots, which are the “crab” feces being left behind. For immediate relief see a doctor, or if one is not available, use an over-the-counter lotion or anti-lice shampoo in the interim.

Getting Relief from an Itchy Penis

No matter the cause of the problem, it is always a bad idea to scratch at the delicate penis skin – it’s just like chicken pox that way. When the skin is scratched, it can leave tiny tears in the outer dermal layer, which can not only make the situation worse but can also welcome bacteria and other organisms into the skin.

Instead of itching, men who suffer from penis itches should wash the area gently to remove any substances which may be causing irritation. Be sure to cleanse with a mild cleanser like baby wash and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water as hot water can also further irritate the skin. Avoid using body wash or harsh soap on the irritated genital area as it may be too tender and cause more damage.

After cleansing the skin, apply a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) to the penis. These nutrient-rich crèmes have a natural base, like Shea butter, that moisturizes and soothes itchy skin once applied. The addition of vitamins such as A, B5, C, D, and E also bring rejuvenating and restoring properties to sensitive genital skin, leaving it soft and irritation-free and less susceptible to drying and itchiness in the future.

Penis Itches: 6 Common Causes and How to Get Relief

When a penis itches, it’s no fun. It can also happen at the most inopportune times - while talking to a colleague at work, in line at the supermarket, or during a critical moment during a big date. Dry, itchy penile skin can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, and distracting and can leave a man running for the door just to get some relief in private. Unfortunately, an itchy penis won’t usually be sated by one simple rub or scratch. Most times, a man needs to give himself extra attention to get rid of the itch, as well as ongoing care to prevent it from coming back. The following are some of the potential reasons a penis itches and how to get relief.

1) Lax Hygiene - A dirty penis is an itchy penis. Think about all the dirt, debris, bacteria, sweat, and emissions that can collect in the genital region. If a man isn’t washing thoroughly and regularly, not only can it get funky, it can get red and itchy too.

2) Contact Dermatitis - Direct contact with an allergen or irritating substance can cause itching. Things like detergents, soaps, latex, and medications can cause a reaction. Most times, the itching is also accompanied by a rash. If the itch is minor, washing the area and treating it with a cortisone crème may help. If it is more serious, seek medical attention.

3) Yeast infection or "Thrush" - Men are just as likely as women to develop a Candida yeast infection. Candida is normally occurring in the skin and mucous membranes; however, when it grows too much, it can cause symptoms such as itching, rash, swelling, and lumpy white discharge. While not a sexually transmitted disease, it can be transmitted during intimate contact. What causes thrush most times is overuse of antibiotics, diabetes, poor circulation, and immunosuppression. See a doctor for treatment.

4) Psoriasis or eczema - Men who have psoriasis or eczema on other parts of their bodies may also develop either skin issue on the penis. See a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Some crèmes with vitamins A and E have also been shown to help reduce itchiness.

5) Genital Warts - This is a sexually transmitted disease (STI) caused by a viral infection. The warts often show up on the glans penis, the foreskin, shaft, and entire pubic area. The warts may also have a discharge which causes the penis itches. See a doctor immediately for testing and treatment.

6) Pubic Lice - Commonly known as "crabs," pubic lice are tiny little parasites that attach themselves to pubic hair. They are spread by intimate contact with an infected person. While itching is the main symptom, other symptoms include bloodstains and black dots, which are the "crab" feces being left behind. For immediate relief see a doctor, or if one is not available, use an over-the-counter lotion or anti-lice shampoo in the interim.

Getting Relief from an Itchy Penis

No matter the cause of the problem, it is always a bad idea to scratch at the delicate penis skin. By scratching, one can leave tiny tears in the outer dermal layer, which can exacerbate the issue and invite bacteria and other organisms into the skin.

Instead of itching, men who suffer from penis itches should wash the area gently to remove any substances which may be causing irritation. Be sure to cleanse with a mild cleanser like baby wash and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Resist using your regular body wash or soap on the irritated area as it may be too tender and cause more damage.

After cleansing the skin, apply a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) to the penis. These nutrient-rich crèmes have a natural base, like Shea butter, that moisturizes and soothes itchy skin on contact. The addition of vitamins such as A, B5, C, D, and E also bring rejuvenating and restoring properties to delicate penile skin, leaving it soft and irritation-free and less prone to future drying and itchiness.

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.