Dermatitis of the penis is a painful and extremely irritating condition, but it is not life threatening. Allergic contact dermatitis commonly occurs after a sexual encounter where the penis comes in contact with an allergen on the skin of another person, or skin inflammation may be due to prolonged moisture around the genitalia. Other causes of dermatitis of the penis may occur as the result of using or coming in contact with certain personal lubricant products, feminine deodorants, harsh soaps or spermicidal products, as well as common household detergents that may trigger an allergic reaction in individuals prone to skin allergies. Dermatitis of the penis is also sometimes caused by an allergic reaction to the latex in condoms or may even be due to excessive friction causing damage to the skin’s surface. A male who urinates outdoors may experience dermatitis of the genitals if contact with poison ivy or the Manchineel tree is made.
Contact dermatitis can occur quickly after exposure to an irritating substance or allergen. Symptoms usually occur within one hour to two days of original contact with whatever originally caused the inflammation. Commonly referred to as a penis rash, dermatitis of the penis is characterized by skin inflammation and dry scaly skin on the genitals that often turns red, white or gray, as well as intense penis itching. Males with darker skin tones commonly notice a lightening of the skin in the affected area instead of redness. Some males may also experience blisters, which cause pain during urination or sexual stimulation.
Laundry soaps, fabric softeners and bath soap may also cause dermatitis of the penis. This is particularly true in males with sensitive skin or in cases where residual chemicals remain in garments as the result of incomplete rinsing. For a few men, an allergy to certain fibers, such as nylon used to make underclothing, may also trigger symptoms of dermatitis of the penis.
Treatment of dermatitis of the penis involves identifying the original source of the penis rash and, if possible, eliminating it. A doctor may prescribe medication to help reduce the swelling and soothe the itch. Applying a cold compress to the area also helps relieve itching and reduce inflammation.
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anon259859
Post 6 |
I have the same problem. I have had this issue for three years and it's still ongoing. I have tried every cream under the sun, and am current using steroid ointment, however this only keeps it at bay as it never clears. I am thinking of getting the chop as I have a foreskin. |
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anon256636
Post 5 |
Same thing here. My doctor thinks mine began as dermatitis and then went to a yeast infection. The yeast has been treated (I believe) but the dermatitis remains. It's been very unpleasant -- no sex for months and honestly I don't want to until it's gone, which from the looks of it may be never as it seems to resist any and all treatments. Desitin seems to help (40 percent zinc), and Cortizone 2 percent may or may not be helping. I'll be looking to change detergent soap as well. Best advice is not to get it, wash and dry your penis after you have sex and use a lubricant when you masturbate. |
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poppyseed
Post 4 |
@tlcJPC - I couldn’t swear to it, but I’d be willing to bet that your laundry detergent or fabric softener might be to blame. It sounds like the only thing that you didn’t name.
I’ve had similar problem with a different area of the body, and apparently that was the main issue. I thought that since I used a detergent that was a name brand, and had been using it for years, that that couldn’t be it. But, as soon as I changed brands to something else my dermatitis went away.
Mine was under my arms – it’s not good manners to go around scratching your pits in public either, so I get it.
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tlcJPC
Post 3 |
I have been having some problems with this. It is incredibly uncomfortable as well as incredibly embarrassing. Scratching in public is generally frowned upon in today’s society, if I am correct.
I have tried everything I can think of. I’ve changed soap, and even shampoo. I’ve even went from briefs to boxers in an attempt to get plenty of air down there. I don’t normally make a habit of peeing outside, so I wouldn’t see that as a problem. My wife and I have no need of condoms because her tubes are tied.
I just can’t figure out what the problem is. I’ve even been to the doctor, and he can’t seem to find a reason for it either, although he's the one who informed me it is dermatitis on the penis. Help would be much appreciated.
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anon172119
Post 2 |
Thought I might add to this list. I have penile dermatitis, but it was caused from a fungal infection. The fungal infection cleared in a week or two from anti-fungal cream, but the dermatitis continued. Currently using prescribed steroid cream that my dermatologist recommended. |
