Penis Rash

Rashes, redness, and irritated skin on the penis may be a sign of a serious health condition. As such, it’s important for all men to learn how to identify and deal with rashes that occur on or around the genitals. Educating yourself now will save you a great deal of stress down the line.

Possible Causes of Penis Rash

Allergic Reaction

Certain people may be allergic to materials, ointments, creams, or fabrics and not realize it until later on in life. It’s possible, then, for a man to develop a rash on the penis as a result of an allergic reaction. Substances that could cause a penis rash to develop range from common items like soap and detergent to prescribed medications. In addition, some men are allergic to latex, and therefore should look for alternatives to latex condoms for use during intercourse. Common symptoms of allergic reactions on the penis include pain, redness, inflammation, and/or swelling.

Balanitis

Uncircumcised men may experience pain, itching, redness, or a rash at the head of the penis as a result of bacterial buildup under the foreskin. This condition, known as balanitis, can be treated with antibiotics and/or medicinal creams and ointments. In rare instances, doctors may recommend the removal of the foreskin (circumcision) to treat balanitis.

Yeast Infection

Though more prevalent in women than men, yeast infections can cause itching, redness, dry skin, and a rash to develop on the penis –– typically around the head and tip. Male yeast infections can be treated with antifungal medication.

Psoriasis

Genital psoriasis is characterized by bright red spots on the penis, penis head, and genital region. Anyone can get psoriasis, but it is not contagious. There are a number of treatments available for this condition.

STDs that Cause Penish Rash

Scabies are small, parasitic mites that form in rashes on or around the genitals after laying eggs within the skin. Scabies is often classified as an STD, even though intercourse isn’t required for the mites to transfer from one person to another (just close contact).

In addition to scabies, herpes may also cause small clusters of bumps that may take on a rash-like quality.

Finally, hepatitis C may lead to rashes forming on the body. Hepatitis is a disease that affects the liver and can sometimes be transmitted through sexual contact. Most of the time, hepatitis C rashes appear on the arms, chest, or torso –– and not on the genital area.

HIV Rash

The most notorious STD of all, HIV can indirectly lead to the development of skin conditions and rashes. However, most of the time, these rashes will be apparent across the legs, arms, and torso and won’t be restricted to the genital region.

Jock Itch & Syphilis

Jock itch is a fungal rash that can develop on the groin, thigh, legs, and buttocks. However, it doesn’t typically manifest on the penis. What’s more, the STD syphilis is infamous for causing rashes in its second stage. However, those rashes most often occur on the hands and feet –– and not on the genital region.