Penis Health 101 - Common Dermatological Terms And What They Mean

Talking to a doctor about any type of problem with the penis is not an easy task in the first place, and this uncomfortable situation it is made all the more difficult when attempting to describe the issue and answer questions about penis related symptoms. Some basic knowledge about common penis skin conditions and the medical terms that are related to them can help in explaining symptoms more accurately and increase the chances of getting the right treatment.

Abrasion - A superficial injury that affects only the outer dermal tissue; a scrape.

Abscess – A localized accumulation of pus.

Balanitis – Inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis.

Collagen – The structural protein that makes up most of the dermal tissue.

Connective tissue – The skin and underlying tissue.

Crust – Dried fluid on the skin’s surface; a scab.

Cyst – A bulb-like nodule that may be filled with fluid.

Dermal – Related to the skin.

Dermatosis – Skin disease.

Dermis – The median layer of dermal tissue, found underneath the epidermis.

Elastin – The elastic-like connective tissue that returns stretched skin to its original position.

Epidermis - The outer layer of skin.

Excoriation – An abrasion caused by scratching.

Exfoliation – Peeling of the skin.

Fissure – A thin crack in the outer layers of skin, usually due to excessive dryness.

Follicle- The skin cells and connective tissue that surround the root of a hair.

Foreskin – The fold of skin that protects the head of the penis.

Folliculitis – Inflammation of the follicles.

Glans – The head or tip of the penis.

Hyperkeratosis – An accumulation of dead skin cells, also known as scaling.

Keratin – The protein that makes up most of the epidermis, hair and nails.

Lesion – Any area of altered skin.

Lichenification - Discoloration of the skin due to chronic rubbing; common in the groin area.

Maceration – Moist, peeling skin.

Nodule – A solid lesion that measures more than 1 cm in diameter.

Papule – A small lesion, usually less than 1 cm in diameter, that can be felt above the surface of the skin. They may occur in groups.

Pearly penile papules – Clusters of translucent papules that occur around the crown of the penis.

Posthitis – Inflammation of the foreskin.

Prepuce – The foreskin, or fold of skin covering the head of the penis.

Pustule – A collection of pus that may be white or yellow. Does not always indicate an infection.

Rash – A widespread eruption of lesions.

Scaling – An increase in the number of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.

Sebaceous glands – Produce an oily substance known as sebum, which may be excreted from the follicles, particularly on the face and in the genital area.

Skin tag - A small, soft piece of hanging skin, often on a stalk, that frequently occurs in folds of skin such as the groin area.

Urethra – The opening at the tip of the penis.

Wart – A small, hard growth on the skin, caused by a virus; these may be sexually transmitted, but not in all cases.

Caring for the penis skin

Whatever the problem, it is important to keep in mind that self-diagnosis is generally not a good idea. Unless the cause of the problem is obvious (catching the skin in a zipper, for instance), penile skin issues should be examined by a qualified medical provider. In the meantime, caring for the penis skin by washing carefully, choosing loose-fitting undergarments made from natural fabrics, and keeping the dermal tissue soft and resilient with a high quality penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) may help to prevent minor skin problems from occurring in the first place and speed healing when they do appear.

Penis Skin Care: A Hidden Issue For Women

It's a well-known fact that women spend a significant amount of money on beauty products. In fact, the YWCA reports that women spend about $7 billion dollars each and every year on cosmetics and beauty products. Men, on the other hand, might be quite content to stock the bathroom cabinet with hotel soap, and they might not even consider spending a dime on something like lotion. There are good reasons for women to talk to their partners about skin care for men, starting with penis health crèmes. With a little bit of education about the benefits these products can bring about, men might be more willing to work toward the healthy skin they deserve.

Skin Mechanics

There is no cellular difference between male skin and female skin. Tiny male babies have skin that's just as soft and smooth as the skin that covers their little sisters. It's just when these boys grow up that dramatic changes begin to take place. Men spend time in rough-and-tumble activities, including hunting, fishing, automotive repair, football and carpentry. They spend hours in the sun without sunscreen. They hardly ever use lotion on any part of their bodies, and the soaps they use might be prized for their scent or their price, rather than their ability to lock in moisture. As a result, adult male skin tends to be tougher, thicker and less sensitive than adult female skin. Rough handling is to blame, and it can have major consequences.

Many of the skin's receptors for touch are located quite close to the surface of the skin. Men's calluses and scabs protect them from pain when they're using their hands during their hobbies. Men with soft hands might not be able to repair a carburetor without gloves on, for example, as the tools and the hot engine of the car would hurt their fingers. Scabs can be helpful here. However, scabs and rough skin in some places could make life just a bit less pleasant for men.

Intimate Skin

The skin that covers the penis is much like the skin that covers the rest of a man's body. With rough treatment, this skin can also become rough, tough and less responsive. Men who wear rough underwear, or no underwear at all, can cause little scrapes and tears in the skin of the penis, and this can heal up with toughened scar tissue. Similarly, men who steal away for a few moments of private pleasure can use rough tactics and omit lotion, and this can also cause toughening and scraping.

Good Steps to Take

Encouraging men to spend up on personal hygiene and penis grooming might be a good first step. Soaps that have a high moisture content and a low astringent content can allow the skin to retain moisture. Dirt washes away while the moisture is locked in place. It's a good step for any man to consider. Men can also use a touch of lotion at the end of a shower, creating a seal that can lock that moisture in place.

Women can also encourage their men to try a penis health crème (most experts recommend Man 1 Man Oil). These crèmes are specifically designed to help soothe and heal penis skin that might have been roughened by poor treatment and decades of low-quality soaps and hygiene products. Health crèmes often contain:
•    Antioxidants, which can offset the aging process and slough off dead skin cells
•    Vitamins, which can reduce the presence of bacteria
•    Enzymes, which can increase blood flow
•    Emollients, which can soften and smooth skin

Lotions, soaps and crèmes make great gifts for men who won't buy them on their own, and applying those products could be a fun way for women to introduce their men to the benefits of good skin care. The softer, more responsive skin men develop could be ample payment for the hard work women put in on behalf of their men.

Lack Of Sensitivity? Masturbation Technique Could Be To Blame

Scottish comedian Craig Ferguson once wrote, "Twas the night before Thanksgiving. All the food's in the oven. And I'm in the bedroom, performin' self lovin'." It's a catchy little poem most men can relate to. Men who don't have sexual partners can use masturbation to help them feel fulfilled, and even men who do have partners may find that a little alone time can be intensely pleasurable. In most cases, this form of private play is considered healthy and natural. It can help a man to find out what he enjoys and what sorts of movements tend to kill the moment. However, men who engage in frequent masturbation without proper penis care could end up with a loss of sensitivity.

Improper Technique

A study in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found that men who masturbate during adolescence and young adulthood do so three times more often than women in the same age group. Studies like this highlight just how common the practice is among men, and while guys might joke about it, few discuss the specifics of their self-pleasure sessions. Many men are doing damage, simply because they're unaware of how they should be handling this delicate part of the anatomy. Common mistakes include:

      •    Using a tight grip
      •    Neglecting lubricant
      •    Engaging in the activity a bit too often
      •    Avoiding proper self-care techniques

Men who sneak away for quick sessions may hope to reach climax as quickly as possible, and they may pull with incredible force using their bare, callused hands. This can cause an immense amount of damage to the thin, fragile skin of the penis, causing tiny tears and scratches. As those heal, they tend to heal with layers of rough collagen. When men head back for another session, they may need to use even more force to break through those calluses. In time, these men may have a marked decrease in the sensitivity of the penis. The sensory cells that are normally right on the exterior of the skin are buried under layers of scar tissue and rough skin, making the penis much less responsive and making sex just a bit less enjoyable. It's a scary thought, but there are some things men can do to reverse the problem.

Taking Care

There is no magic number when it comes to masturbation frequency. Sex drive is intensely personal, and most men notice that their urge to have sex tends to rise and fall depending on other things that are happening in their lives. However, men who find that they're only able to achieve a climax with masturbation, or who find that the skin of the penis seems rough and sore, might benefit from abstaining for at least a few days and thinking hard about putting together a more reasonable schedule. Self-stimulation should be a time of gentle exploration and tenderness, and this experience takes time to do properly. Men who slow down and move slowly may find that they have a much more intense experience, and perhaps they won't have to engage in the activity so frequently.

During these sessions, lotion is of paramount importance. A barrier can protect the skin, while allowing even the softest touch to be amplified and magnified. Incorporating a bit of moisture into masturbation can also provide the rough and sore skin of the penis with a bit of protection, preventing further damage.

Using a penis health crème (most experts recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also be beneficial. Applying softening emollients directly to the skin of the penis can help the tissues to soften, allowing nerve endings to respond appropriately. In time, men may find that the skin of the penis is much more receptive and responsive, making their masturbation sessions much more enjoyable, and sex with their partners all the more amazing.

Phimosis: Is Full Circumcision The Only Answer?

As researchers continue to debate the risks and benefits of circumcision, more and more parents are choosing to allow their baby boys to retain their natural state. These parents may hope that by teaching their children proper penis health care, these boys can grow up healthy and happy, with all of the bits of skin they were born with. Unfortunately, some men develop phimosis, an uncomfortable condition in which the foreskin doesn't retract as it should. Circumcision is commonly prescribed for this condition, but there are other options men can also consider.

Common Symptoms

Men who have phimosis may have difficulty sustaining an erection as they should, and some men experience difficulty with urination due to skin blockages. Phimosis can occur quite suddenly, alarming men who had never seen anything like this in the past. But some men who have phimosis were born with the condition, and they may not know that anything about their anatomy is considered unusual or somehow harmful. They may have difficulties with their sex lives, but they may place the blame for these issues on their confidence or prowess, not on their anatomy. Doctors or sexual partners may be the first to bring the topic to the attention of these men.

Medical Options

In a full circumcision, the foreskin is removed, allowing the glans to be fully exposed. In a few days, men who have this surgery performed may have no phimosis symptoms at all, and they may be pain free for the first time in a long time. However, a full circumcision can also remove some delicate tissue that contains sensory cells. Some men feel reduced sensations during sex after they go through full circumcisions, and the sensory cells they lose don't ever regrow.

Partial surgeries may provide a middle path. Here, a tiny bit of skin is removed, allowing the foreskin to slide into place and away again without tightening around the head. The healing time is comparable to the time needed by men who have a full circumcision, but much of the sensory loss felt by people who have a full surgery isn't reported by people who have only a partial circumcision.

Some men choose to try hormone creams such as corticosteroids for mild or moderate phimosis symptoms. These creams can cause the skin to grow thinner and more elastic, and this can allow the skin to retract more easily. These creams should be used only under the care of a doctor, however, and it can take a significant amount of time for the steroids to take effect.

Taking Care

Men who practice proper penis health care may never experience phimosis, and these tips can also be helpful as they work on correcting any problems they do have. Good suggestions to follow include:

• Stretch the foreskin daily, ensuring that it pulls away as it should. Doctors can show men how to do this, if they're unsure of the proper procedure.
• Clean beneath the foreskin (if applicable) and around the penis each day. Trapped skin cells and dirt can lead to infections, which can tighten the skin.
• Talk to the doctor about penis health. Men can be uncomfortable with the idea of discussing their private parts, even if they have questions. Sharing concerns openly and honestly is the best way to nip small concerns in the bud before they're allowed to blossom.
• Wear proper clothing. Underwear that is too tight or clothes that chafe and scrape can cause penis irritation that can lead to swelling and infections. Men should be comfortable in their clothing, even if it's not considered fashion forward.

Using a penis health crème (most experts recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also be helpful. This crème can help the skin of the penis to stay soft, supple and movable. Men who have not been circumcised can ensure that the foreskin stays mobile, and men who have been through surgery can help their exposed skin to stay soft and responsive.

Using A Penis Skin Creme - What Men Should Know About Caring For The Penis

From the time an adolescent boy discovers the joys of masturbation, the skin of the penis starts to take a real beating, sometimes on a daily (or several-times-daily) basis. While the penis skin can be tougher than it looks, all of this rough handling can take its toll, and ongoing problems may result without attention to appropriate penis skin care. Being well-informed about common penis skin problems can help men of all ages to avoid issues such as loss of sensitivity, structural damage to the penis, or a coarse, unpleasant appearance.

Some common issues that can affect penis health

·         Fungal and bacterial infections – Because microorganisms such as yeast, tinea cruris (the fungus responsible for athlete’s foot and jock itch) and many types of bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, the groin area is prime real estate for these invaders. While they are almost always present on the skin, they generally do not cause problems, unless injury or skin imbalances trigger them into a rapid growth phase. When this occurs, men can experience unpleasant symptoms such as swelling, redness, rash, and intense itching of the penis skin. In some cases, such as when a yeast infection develops, a whitish, chunky discharge may also be present.

Maintaining normal pH balance and keeping the skin’s surface intact through moisturizing and proper nutrition of the skin may help to prevent minor skin infections. In addition, natural antibacterials like vitamin A may help to limit the presence of bacterial invaders on the skin’s surface.

·         Thickening and toughening of the penis skin – The main function of the skin on all parts of the body, including the penis, is to protect what is underneath from the world outside. One way it accomplishes this is to react to stress (such as friction, irritation or injury) by forming a protective layer of keratin wherever these issues occur. In other words, damaged skin fights back by forming a tougher outer layer, which does help to protect the skin but also interferes with tactile sensation. In terms of the penis, frequent masturbation, aggressive sex, or irritation or injury to the skin’s surface can cause a callus-like layer of skin to form. This may impair sensory function of the penis, leading to loss of penis sensation and a corresponding reduction in sexual pleasure.

Keeping the skin soft and supple through regular use of a high-quality moisturizer can help to eliminate much of this problem. Nutrients such as vitamins A and C, which are needed for the formation of healthy skin and connective tissue, may also help to preserve supple and responsive penis skin.

·         Scarring around the erectile tissue – Traumatic injury to the penis, or even chronic overuse – may stimulate the formation of scarring in the connective tissue that surrounds the erectile chambers of the penis. When this occurs, the affected area does not expand in the same manner as the surrounding tissue. Therefore, when an erection forms, the scar tissue creates a bowstring effect, pulling and bending the penis. This can be considerably painful, as well as impairing the ability to engage in intercourse, and it may result in loss of sexual function. In cases where the penis is visibly deformed in the presence of an erection, Peyronie’s disease may be diagnosed. While surgical correction of the condition is possible, the net result may be ongoing loss of erectile function.

Preventing injury to the penis related to aggressive sex and keeping the skin in overall healthy condition may help to deter the formation of scar tissue. Keeping the skin well-oxygenated, enhancing its natural lubricant qualities and boosting the healing properties of the skin cells through adequate skin nutrition can be instrumental in this process. 

The benefits of a penis health crème

A high-quality penis health crème (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) contains essential nutrients that are needed for penis health. Vitamins A and  C are especially important in maintaining a smooth, responsive tone and texture, while vitamin C supports circulatory function for health oxygenation of the  skin cells. Amino acids such as L-arginine are needed for cell metabolism and support of healthy nerve tissue, while natural moisturizers such as shea butter and vitamin E work to preserve adequate hydration of the skin. Applying these nutrients to the skin on a daily basis may have numerous benefits in terms of keeping the skin healthy and attractive and preventing injuries that may lead to long-term problems.

Penis Skin Allergies - Causes And Solutions

Reddened, swollen and itchy penis skin is no joke, and it can be an alarming experience. Many men have been sent into a panic over the appearance of dry and irritated skin of the penis, jumping to the conclusion that they have contracted a socially transmitted disease. In fact, in many cases, red and swollen skin is simply the result of penis skin allergies. Adverse reactions to environmental irritants are common, but with appropriate penis skin care, these should be short-lived and should not cause any lasting damage.

Symptoms of a penis skin allergy

Skin reactions to irritants are commonly referred to as dermatitis, an inflammatory condition that results in redness, swelling and intense itching. After exposure to an allergen, the skin may develop a spreading rash and/or a dry, scaly appearance. Men with darker skin tones may find that the skin in the affected area appears lighter than the surrounding tissue.

Adverse reactions may occur almost immediately or within a few hours after exposure. Scratching the affected area is unlikely to make the itching better and may damage the surface of the skin, causing bleeding, scabbing and further irritation that contributes to ongoing discomfort. If the urethra, or penile opening, is affected, painful urination may also occur.

Potential causes of dermatitis

A wide range of environmental irritants can cause contact dermatitis. These include everyday substances such as laundry detergents and fabric softeners, as well as bath soaps and other personal care products. Some men may be allergic to certain fabrics and experience adverse reactions to undergarments or other clothing containing nylon, wool, or latex rubber (often used in "stretchy" materials).

Latex condoms are also a common cause of penis skin allergies; in addition, contact with an allergen on the surface of a sexual partner’s skin may lead to dermatitis. Men who urinate outdoors may accidentally come in contact with plants such as poison ivy or poison oak, which are also known to cause rash, inflammation and severe itching.

Reducing allergy-related reactions

It is not always possible to avoid all irritants, but certain precautions can be taken to help men who are prone to dermatitis avoid exposure to the most reactive substances. For instance, rinsing clothing thoroughly after washing can help to eliminate traces of detergents. Using a mild natural cleanser such as an olive oil soap may be less likely to cause irritation than ordinary soaps and shower gels, and wearing cotton or silk clothing close to the skin is also recommended. Men who have a latex allergy should opt for latex-free condoms. It is important to keep in mind that even those who have not previously had an adverse reaction to latex may develop a sensitivity over time, so men who develop allergic-type symptoms should discontinue its use and look for an alternative.

Men who develop respiratory symptoms in addition to a skin reaction should seek immediate medical attention to avoid a potentially life-threatening scenario. Those who come in contact with a known allergen should rinse the area thoroughly as soon as possible to minimize exposure. Symptoms such as itchy penis skin, redness and inflammation that do not subside in a day or so should be seen by a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Caring for the penis skin

When allergic reactions do occur, the immediate goal is relief. Scratching the area is a bad idea, but as previously noted, washing the affected skin to remove any traces of allergen is recommended. Applying a cold compress to the area or soaking in an oatmeal bath may also help to relieve the itching and burning.

A natural moisturizer such as shea butter may help to soothe irritation and redness, while the nutrients found in a high quality penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) may speed healing, as well as helping to prevent scarring and improving the overall look and feel of the penis skin.

Penis Tattoos - Effects On Penis Health

For the majority of men, avoiding a needle anywhere near the penis seems like a no-brainer. But for die-hard tattoo enthusiasts, no part of the body is off limits. Not surprisingly, though, piercing the penile skin repeatedly with a needle and injecting it with ink can lead to some unpleasant problems. For men who simply can’t resist the urge to ink, being aware of these and caring for the penis properly before and after the fact may be helpful in preventing lasting penis problems.

1. Infection - Poking holes in the skin is the ideal way to introduce foreign invaders to the body, especially when proper precautions are not taken. Tattooing should be done by a professional, in a hygienic setting, using sanitary equipment; but even when sanitary procedures are followed, infection following tattooing is not uncommon. Keeping the area clean, both before and after, and applying a penis health crème containing natural antibacterials may help to reduce the risk of infection.

2. Scarring - Another problem that can be caused by tattooing is scarring of the skin and underlying connective tissue. Scarring on the skin’s surface can lead to penile sensitivity loss, while scarring around the erectile tissue in the shaft of the penis can, in some cases, cause painful bending or curving during erections and even loss of function. Boosting the skin’s healing properties and supporting the formation of new skin and connective tissue may help to alleviate the risk of developing permanent penis problems.

3. Nerve damage - The skin of the penis is dense with nerve endings that transmit pleasurable sensations to the brain. If this nerve tissue is damaged by a misplaced needle, loss of sensation may result. Vitamins to support nerve cell repair may alleviate the risk of reduced sensitivity and impaired function.

4. Priapism - Last but not least, tattooing the penis can result in a long-term erection, a condition known as priapism that can cause scarring, nerve damage and permanent loss of function. The danger here is very real - a recent news article describes a young Iranian man who took the do-it-yourself approach and pierced an artery, preventing the blood from draining from the penis and causing a permanent semi-erection. While relying on a professional with the right equipment may reduce the risk in this case, there is always the chance that something can go wrong. Men who find themselves with an erection that does not subside after four hours or so should seek emergency medical treatment in order to avoid permanent injury to the penis.

Keeping the penis healthy, before and after tattooing

For those who simply can’t resist the lure of the needle, some precautions and preventive measures should be taken. In addition, proper penis care following the procedure should be observed. To keep the penis healthy, regular bathing with a mild cleanser is of course advised. Furthermore, tattooing should never be attempted on cracked, chafed or irritated skin. Moisturizing can help to alleviate the effects of rough handling and prevent further irritation.

As already mentioned, a reputable tattoo artist who runs a clean operation and does not reuse needles is recommended, not only to avoid infections and transmission of other diseases, but to reduce the risk of nerve damage to the sensitive penile tissue.

Keeping the penis skin supple, smooth and blemish free, both before and after the procedure, will only help to reduce the risk of uncomfortable or harmful side effects; treatment with a quality penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, allowing the full effect of the artwork to shine through.