The Penis Care Routine of a Pro

Most guys learn about penis care from their parents. They find out how to keep things clean, they learn when they should see a doctor for a problem and they figure out how to use protective sports gear to keep tissues safe when they're on the court or field.

All of this is good information, to be sure, but it doesn't really help men to understand what they'll need to do in order to keep penile tissues looking and feeling their best. The information men get from parents might not help them to understand what they should be doing for their intimate cells on a daily basis in order to keep them in tip-top shape.

That's why it's such a pleasure to find a guy who is willing to speak up about what he does to keep his tool working well. This man, whom we’ll call Joseph, has some quality advice for every man who hopes to keep things down below as healthy as possible for a longer period of time.

Proper Grooming is Key
"When I was a younger guy, I sort of let everything go wild down there, if you know what I mean," Joseph says. "I never trimmed up any hair, I didn't wash all that often and I only changed underwear when I started to get a whiff of something funky when I unzipped."

"After I dealt with an infection or two, and I lived through a few embarrassing conversations with girlfriends, I decided to change things around," he says. "I would advise all guys to do the same. Keeping things clean and tidy can really make a big difference for overall health."

Joseph recommends that men invest in good grooming tools, such as:
- Sharp scissors
- Electric razors
- Soft towels
- Unscented, mild soap

"That soap can help keep the general area clean, but it shouldn't touch the penis," Joseph warns. "Plain warm water is best for the little guy. And those soft towels are a must, as rougher fabrics can damage the skin."

"When the skin is clean and dry, that's a great time to do a little shaping down there," Joseph says. "I try to keep the hair from creeping out to my legs, and the razor helps with that, but I use the scissors to keep the overall size of the bush down."

That grooming step is vital, Joseph says, as it makes washing easier. "Plus, hair can trap fluids and smells, so cutting it away helps prevent nastiness," he says.

Water Plays a Role
"In addition to grooming properly, I also do my part to make sure my penis has the necessary nutrition to stay healthy," Joseph says. "That means I drink a lot of water. I always have a bottle of water within my reach, so I can grab a sip while I'm out running around. And I always drink water with meals."

"Many of my friends drink alcohol, like beer or wine, on a daily basis, but I don't," he says. "Those substances can really dry things out, and sometimes, they can damage the heart, which can force the little man to work just a little harder for blood flow. That's why I stick with pure water. It doesn't cause that kind of damage, and it has no calories. That's a bonus!"

Nutrients: A Must
In addition to drinking water daily, Joseph also uses a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) daily. That's a good idea. Quality products contain the right mix of vitamins and minerals that sensitive skin cells need in order to grow and thrive, and the soothing emollients included can keep skin feeling smooth, soft and sensitive. It's the perfect mix for health-conscious men like Joseph. And it might be the right mix for all men.

Itchy Penis Quiz – What Causes the Tingle?

An itch on any part of the human body can be uncomfortable. But when it's an itch in the pants, it's almost unbearable. In fact, men with itchy penis concerns are likely far too distracted to think clearly. But they should be thinking, because many of these itches are caused by conditions that will go away with the right penis care.

This quiz contains a list of itching symptoms, along with the conditions that typically cause the discomfort. Men can use it to find out a little more about what in the world could be going wrong, and what they should be doing to make it better.

The Symptoms
 
1) Intense itching accompanied by a cheese-like material that gathers underneath the foreskin. This is a smelly problem.

2) The itching begins after sex with a female partner, and she's probably itchy, too. Discharge that's white and thick might occur in some men, but others may have no discharge or smells. They might just be itchy.

3) A red and scaly rash that starts in the folds of a man's body (like the spot between his legs and his groin) that may spread to his penis. The itching associated with this particular condition can be unbearable.

4) Tiny parasites seem to deliver this itch, and when a man pulls apart his public hairs, he may see these creatures running for cover.

5) An intense itch starts the process, but a rash soon appears and spreads.

The Conditions and Treatments
 
A) Pubic lice caused by close contact. These small creatures love to feed on human blood, and each bite causes intense itching. The bugs can travel from one body to another, so it's easy to get them during sex, but they might also spread when men share clothes or towels with others. A medicated lotion or shampoo can help.

B) Balanitis caused by poor hygiene. When men don't keep things clean and fluids build up, bacteria can reproduce, resulting in itching and unpleasant odors. Typically, this is a problem that will heal when men wash up regularly, but a doctor might prescribe an ointment to speed up recovery.

C) Jock itch. A fungus causes this particular problem, but keeping the lap a little wet and a little dirty doesn't help. Treatment involves over-the-counter creams and sprays, along with frequent underwear changes. This two-pronged attack can make the discomfort fade.

D) Dermatitis caused by allergies. Harsh soaps, perfumes and other irritants can be hard on sensitive skin, and allergic reactions might occur in response. Removing the offending item can help the problem dissipate, but some men need oral medications (antihistamines) in order to really feel better.

E) Yeast infections transmitted through sexual activity. When a female partner is overrun with yeast cells, they can hitch a ride on a man's rod during sex and reproduce inside his body. This is an uncomfortable problem, but over-the-counter medications can be a big help. Men should see their doctors first, though, just to make sure yeast is the only problem.

Matching Symptoms with Causes
1) B
2) E
3) C
4) A
5) D

See a Doctor
This article doesn't mention sexually transmitted diseases, but many of these conditions can also cause itching. That's why it's vital for men to see their doctors when itching occurs. But it's clear that many causes of itching can be cured quickly with the proper method of care.

Prevention is also vital for itching problems, and a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) may help. Quality products contain emollients that can keep skin smooth and slick, while vitamins can keep bacterial colonies in check. A daily application could help men with itchy penis concerns to heal, and may block the itch in the future.

Sore, Red Penis and No Clear Cause? Understanding Male Genital Dysaesthesia

A sore, red penis is not an unusual occurrence. Men tend to put their equipment to hard use, and issues like friction, chafing, sensitive skin reactions and a host of other dermatological ailments can lead to redness and penile pain. In most cases, these problems can be easily identified and treated; but what happens when there is no clear cause, and even the most diligent efforts at penis care are ineffective?

Chronic penile pain can significantly damage a man’s enjoyment of sex, his self-esteem and his overall quality of life, so finding answers to this potentially life-altering issue is crucial. In cases where redness and pain don’t seem to respond at all to standard treatments or relief measures, it may be time to look deeper. One possible explanation for a red, sore penis is a condition known as male genital dysaesthesia.

What is male genital dysaesthesia?
Men with this condition typically describe sensations of heat, burning, discomfort and hypersensitivity to touch in the penis, foreskin, and scrotum. These issues may be made worse by touching the genitals, wearing underwear or sitting, and some men may find normal sexual relations to be unbearably painful. The area may also appear redder than normal, although itching is not usually present.

Male genital dysaesthesia may also be referred to as peno-scroto-dynia or "red scrotum syndrome" (although it affects the penis as well as the scrotal area).

What causes genital dysaesthesia?
There is no one, clear-cut cause for this type of chronic penile pain, although it appears to be associated with acne rosacea (a condition that causes a red, flushed appearance of the face) in some men. Some potential causes may include:

- Overactive nerve endings;
- Nerve disorders such as pudendal nerve entrapment;
- A response to long-term use of corticosteroid creams.

Often, men who have chronic soreness, burning and a red penis are initially diagnosed with eczema (also known as dermatitis) and advised to use cortisone creams. These remedies do not have any effect on dysaesthesia, but men may continue to use them long after the recommended treatment period in an effort to relieve their symptoms, thereby contributing to the underlying problem.

How is it diagnosed?
Affected men may present with very red penile skin with sharply defined borders, broken blood vessels, tenderness and pain. Swabs of the affected tissue may be taken to rule out other conditions such as fungal or bacterial infections and STDs.

Who gets it?
The individuals who are most commonly affected tend to be Caucasian men in their 60s and beyond; however, younger men and men of other races may also develop symptoms of genital dysaesthesia.

Are there any effective treatment methods?
 
Treating dysaesthesia generally involves three aspects:

- Use of prescription medications. Some antibiotics and tryciclic medications may help reduce redness in the area, and anticonvulsive medications (often used for treating neuropathic conditions) can be very effective in reducing the pain. Affected men should talk to their doctors about these options, as well as the potential side effects.

- Avoidance of irritants that can make the soreness worse. Because soap can be harsh and drying, patients are advised to use soap-free cleansers; changing to a non-allergenic, sensitive-skin laundry detergent may also help. In most cases, men will be advised to stop using corticosteroid creams.

- Use of various palliative measures to soothe the affected area. Applying cool compresses can reduce the burning sensation, and wearing breathable cotton underwear (i.e., boxer shorts) can prevent constriction. A non-irritating moisturizer may also be applied after a daily shower. A quality penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing natural emollients such as Shea butter may be particularly effective, as it is formulated with the sensitive skin of the penis in mind.

Sex Toys for Beginners – Spice Things Up

More and more today, couples are opting to add sex toys to their private lives. This in no way diminishes the healthy erect penis and the job that it performs in keeping a couple's sex life happy; rather, it is an acknowledgement that there is a whole world of options in a couple's sex play, and nowadays anything can be considered. Sex toys will never replace a tool that has been given diligent penis care through the years – nor should they – but they can add a delectable touch of spice that makes any couple's experiences more fun.

Not a Requirement

Naturally, there's nothing that says that any couple has to incorporate sex toys into their romantic activities. Many, many couples are perfectly happy using their own body parts and nothing else in their sensual play.

But what about those who do want to look into expanding their horizons by adding toys into the mix? Where do they begin?

Assess

The first step, of course, is to make sure that both partners are on the same page. Are both partners interested in exploring the use of sex toys? Is one more interested than the other? Are there any specific concerns that should be aired and addressed?

We’re All Different

No two couples are the same, of course, and so what one couple is ready to do in terms of using sex toys may differ from what another couple is prepared to do; however, here are a few general guidelines for beginners looking for some new sensual devices.

• Start slow (or small). Purchasing a massive dildo right out of the gate may not be the wisest decision. A small handheld vibrating egg or massager may be more appropriate for two people who are just beginning to explore. This kind of device can be used on the penis and on the external area of the vagina to provide stimulation. If a person is ready for some form of insertion (vaginal or anal), a more petite dildo is probably a better bet for starters.

• Ring it up. Many men find that wearing a penis ring can really enhance their sexual experience – and just having their partner place it on their tools can be an exciting sensation. Care simply needs to be taken in picking the kind (leather, plastic, silicone, metal, etc.) that seems best. Some men also may feel more comfortable shaving their genitals before using a ring, in order to lessen the chance of pubic hairs being pulled inadvertently.

• Ball it (or bead it). Many beginners find using Ben-wa balls or vibrating beads quite pleasurable. These are small, round objects, usually strung together, which are inserted carefully into the vagina to provide direct stimulation. However, the user must be comfortable with the insertion of objects into the vagina and may need to work up to these. Ben-wa balls or beads are often used to provide secret sexual stimulation while in public.

There are many other sex toy options for beginners to consider; the most important thing is to choose a toy with which the user feels comfortable and to follow any instructions. (If lubrication is required, users should apply both the appropriate amount and pay attention to the kind of lubricant – such as water-based versus oil-based – that is recommended.)

Occasionally sex toys can result in a bit of rawness or soreness on a man's erect penis; using a nourishing penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) can help address this issue. Men should look for a cream that contains a high-end emollient (Shea butter is excellent) and a natural hydrator (such as vitamin E) to attend to any soreness resulting from toy use (or other causes). It's also best to select a cream that includes alpha lipoic acid, a superior antioxidant that may offset harmful oxidative and aging processes in penis cell metabolism.

The Healthy Penis and Naked Yoga

Practicing yoga is an excellent way to exercise both the mind and the body (and many would say the soul as well) and, as such, can help maintain a healthy penis. Recently, naked yoga has become more popular in some areas, and it is quite possible that some who have not been drawn to the practice of yoga previously may find their interest (among other things) aroused by this style of yoga. Anything that enhances proper general and penis health is to be encouraged; however, potential practitioners should do some research before attending a naked yoga class.

Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that gains its name from the idea of "yoking together" the mind and the body. It is a wide-ranging term that encompasses many different practices and disciplines, but in general use today it refers to a series of poses and positions that are employed as a way of transforming the mental and physical attributes of an individual.

In practice, yoga classes tend to emphasize holding and releasing certain physical positions and moving from one position to another. Concentration, balance, strength and energy are called upon during the course of a typical yoga class.

Not New
Although there has been a recent resurgence of interest in naked yoga, the concept is hardly a new one. America in the 1960s first experienced a rush of naked yoga classes in response to the loosening of social structures; however, unclothed yoga has been practiced in various societies dating back hundreds of years.

Today
Naked yoga classes can be held in any form. However, it is more typical for a naked yoga class to be men-only or co-ed; female-only classes are less common (at least in the United States). Participation in a naked yoga class can help one to overcome negative feelings about nudity, whether those feelings are toward one’s own nakedness or that of others, and can be an aid in getting more comfortable with one's personal body type.

Not About Sex
Although there certainly may be exceptions, most naked yoga classes are not about the performance of sexual activities. Just as with nudist activities, it is intended to be a celebration of the naked body but not an invitation to engage in sex, either partner-based or solo.

This does not mean, however, that the penis is ignored in naked yoga. Particularly in men-only naked yoga classes, the penis is discussed and information is given related to specific energies that may be radiating through the organ. In some partner-based exercises, there may be physical contact with the penis.

Again, the practice of sex during naked yoga is officially discouraged; men who decided to drop in on a naked yoga class purely for sexual thrills may be told to leave the class. It is quite likely, of course, that there are some individual studios that do not dissuade participants from indulging in erotic activities during naked yoga; however, a man who wishes to experience a class solely for this purpose would be well-advised to make sure that such activities are allowed before attending a class.

Using yoga to make the mind and body more at one can promote overall health; for men, this may include an increased awareness of the need to take better care of their penises. The consistent use of a quality penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) is an excellent way to achieve this healthy penis goal. Using a cream with L-arginine is advised, as this ingredient may boost nitric oxide production, which helps in the maintenance of proper penis blood flow. In addition, a cream that includes a natural emollient like Shea butter and an excellent hydrator such as vitamin E will help soothe any rawness that a penis encounters during a workout - whether from naked yoga or more common penis activities.

Penis Care Basics – 8 Foods to Avoid

When something goes wrong in the body, one of the first places a person should look for the source is the content of his plate. Proper nutrition is the foundation of health from the cells up, and the penis is affected by what one eats as much as any other body part. The foods a man eats can either help or hinder bedroom activities. Men can boost their penis care regimens by making alterations to their diet that promote erectile function, healthy testosterone levels and nicely flavored semen. Avoid consuming the following foods and beverages in excess for optimal penis health.

1. Soy

While fine in moderation, soy should not be consumed in large quantities on a regular basis. That’s because it contains phytoestrogens, hormones that can actually lower testosterone levels. Healthy testosterone levels are needed to maintain libido and erectile function. So keep the soy milk, tofu and other soy products to a minimum.

2. Coffee

A cup or two of Joe in the morning is A-okay, but guzzling down massive amounts of the stuff can raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol. High cortisol levels interfere with testosterone levels, meaning they interfere with sex drive and penis perkiness. Opt for ginseng tea instead – this not only provides energy, but it contains the amino acid L-arginine, which is believed to increase penis sensitivity, making this a pick-me-up for the penis as well.

3. Red Meat

Most people love a good burger or steak, but consuming large amounts of red meat may have a negative impact on spunk flavor. A man can be kind to the partner in his life by keeping his level of red meat intake in check.

4. Refined Carbs

Bleached white flour is found in lots of carbs, including some pastas, graham crackers and breads. This ingredient can reduce testosterone levels. Go for whole grains instead.

5. Mint

Bad breath is a huge turn-off, but so is mint. Mint products contain menthol, which can reduce testosterone levels and cool off the sex drive. Men should opt for brushing their teeth to keep their mouths fresh rather than relying on minty gums and Altoids.

6. Alcohol

Ever heard of “whiskey dick”? It’s what happens when a man drinks too much and can’t get it up. Excess alcohol can cause other performance problems, too, including inability to reach orgasm and premature ejaculation. Try instituting a three drink max rule for better bedroom performance.

7. Soda

Soda is loaded with sugar and is one of the primary culprits behind the obesity epidemic in the United States. Diet sodas are no exception. Excess weight is associated with higher levels of estrogen and, therefore, lower levels of testosterone in men. Not only does weight impact penile performance, but it is a main factor in deadly diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. Do the waistline and the sex drive a favor by drinking water instead.

8. Asparagus

It’s common knowledge that asparagus makes urine smell rather putrid, but it may also impact the smell and flavor of semen. A man who anticipates a good session of oral later on, then, should avoid this vegetable.

A man should feed his penis plenty of nutrients to support hydrated skin, proper blood flow and a healthy nerve supply, including vitamins E, C and A as well as L-arginine and alpha lipoic acid. These can be applied directly to the organ with a quality penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). Along with proper hygiene and regular exercise of the organ, a cream can supplement a man’s penis care regimen to promote optimal organ form and function.

Weak Erections – 6 Natural Ways to Stiffen Up

The causes of weak erections range from lifestyle choices to serious underlying health conditions. Before running to the doctor for a prescription of Viagra, it’s a good idea for a man to think about what he can do to more proactively deal with erectile problems. There are several natural, healthy steps a man can take to strengthen his stiffies and improve overall penis health. Men can incorporate the following changes into their daily routines for optimal erectile function.

1) Do kegels.
Kegels aren’t just for the ladies. This exercise strengthens the bulbocavernosus muscle, which, in men, is responsible for allowing the penis to fill with blood for a nice, hard erection. The muscle is exercised by squeezing it; men can identify the muscle by stopping the flow of urine mid-stream. Clench the muscle, holding each clench for five seconds 10 times in a row, three times a day to start. Work up to sets of 20 as the muscle gains strength.

2) Do cardio.
The penis gets hard during an erection because two chambers, beautifully named the corpora cavernosa, fill with blood. Ample blood flow, then, is vital to erectile health. Cardiovascular exercise helps the heart work more efficiently, meaning it improves circulation. Men might think they don’t have time for cardio, but 30 minutes a day a few times a week may be sufficient to improve not only penis health, but overall physical and mental well-being. Men don’t need to go to the gym for cardio, either. Park several blocks away from work and walk the rest of the way; walk to lunch; wind down at the end of the day with a brisk stroll; watch TV on an elliptical machine. Get creative.

3) Quit smoking.
Smoking is a great way to say "screw you" not only to the lungs but the penis as well. Smoking interferes with blood flow. In research, smokers report lower levels of sexual satisfaction; they also tend to have fewer nighttime erections, indicating poor erectile health.

4) Eat berries.
Nitric oxide is a chemical in the body that, among other things, is needed for the penis to perk up because it dilates the blood vessels within the member, allowing them to fill with blood for a strong erection. Free radicals in the blood reduce levels of nitric oxide, and antioxidants are the answer to this problem. Dark berries are rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that can lower free radical count and, therefore, boost nitric oxide. A handful of blackberries a day may help erections stay.

5) Lose weight (to lower estrogen).
Overweight men tend to have higher levels of estrogen and, therefore, lower levels of testosterone, than men who are at a healthy weight. Healthy testosterone levels are needed for proper erectile function. If men are doing step 2 above - cardio - and eating right, then the process of losing weight should already be under way.

6) Manage snoring.
Snoring can not only deprive a man’s partner of sleep, but his penis of oxygen. When a man snores, he’s not taking in a normal amount of oxygen. Starving the penis of this necessity can wreak havoc on erectile health.

Once a man has the basics of erectile health down, he can turn his attention to the outside of the penis. Nothing goes better with a big, hard erection than smooth, supple skin. Using a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) rich in natural moisturizers like Shea butter and vitamin E can keep the skin well-hydrated and pleasant to touch. Look for additional nutrients, such as vitamin C, that may promote more youthful skin and better circulation to the member.