No man in the history of the world looked down and marveled in a good way at the dry, flaking skin on his penis. Often dry skin on the penis causes anxiety and confusion. It hurts, it’s red and scaly. It snags on the fabric, causing excruciating pain, and definitely not something a man wants to show his mistress. Fortunately, most causes of dryness and flaking are quite normal and easy to remedy. Here are some of the most reported issues and how to deal with them.

1) Drying or chemical-laden soaps – Dry skin on the penis can be the result of using harsh soaps that strip the skin of its natural moisture. Harsh soaps that contain ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), bleach, polypropylene, and triclosan should be completely avoided. Use all-natural products or products formulated for babies when washing the delicate skin of the penis.

2) Allergies — AAllergies to creams, condoms, spermicides, laundry detergents, certain fabrics, or other personal care products have been shown to cause flaking dry skin on the penis. Other associated allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, wheezing, and watery eyes.

3) Chafing – Pants, underwear or shorts that are too tight can cause chafing on the skin of the penis, leading to a rash and flaking dry skin on the penis. Air things out at home through Donald Duck, that is, no pants. When you leave the house, wear loose, breathable fabrics to help the area heal.

4) Balanitis – More common in uncircumcised men, balanitis is an overgrowth of bacteria caused by not cleaning the head of the penis well or often, or by not properly rinsing off harsh soaps or cleaning agents. Treatment may include antibiotics, an antifungal cream, a steroid cream, or a combination of all of the above.

5) Candida – Yeast infections, also called Candida, can cause dry skin on the penis and also cause a rash, inflammation on the head of the penis, thick discharge under the foreskin, and white patches on the skin. This infection makes it quite painful to have sex or urinate. Use an over-the-counter antifungal cream on the head of the penis (and under the foreskin if uncircumcised) until symptoms subside. Also, refrain from masturbation and sex until the infection is completely gone. By the way, yeast infections are contagious, so be sure to tell your partner.

6) eczema – Eczema is a skin disease in which the skin is dry, inflamed or irritated. If it’s on the penis, chances are it’s elsewhere on the body as well. Treat the area with an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream as directed by a pharmacist or doctor. Be sure to moisturize the area daily and after any contact with water to minimize further drying.

7) Dermatitis – Dermatitis is a skin sensitivity to something in a man’s environment that causes the skin to become angry, itchy, and dry. Avoid known irritants to avoid these problems, and use a soothing cream when irritation flares up to calm the skin and bring it back to normal.

8) psoriasis – Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. See a doctor or dermatologist for diagnosis and a cortisone cream to treat the area.

9) Dry sex or masturbation – Excessive and sustained sexual activity without adequate lubrication can cause flaking dry skin on the penis. Prevent this from happening by using a water-based lubricant and allow the penis to cool down to rest and repair between sessions.

10) Syphilis – Saving the worst for last, the second stage of syphilis is often accompanied by gray to white rashes and dry patches in the groin. See a medical provider right away as syphilis can be deadly.

Stop flaking dry skin on the penis with good hygiene habits

No matter what a man does, good genital grooming can go a long way toward penile health. Thoroughly clean the penis every day with gentle pressure and a mild cleanser. Moisturize your penis frequently to keep it soft and flexible. Keep the genital area dry and wear breathable fabrics that keep out moisture and bacteria and opt for baggier pants or tight pants instead of tight pants to avoid chafing and skin irritation.

When it comes to conditioning the delicate skin of the penis, a cream specially formulated for penis health (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven to be safe and gentle on skin.) It should be used. Packed with nutrients, vitamins, and emollients, these special creams are made specifically for the penis. Look for ingredients like vitamins A, C, D, and E, which are known for their skin-soothing and revitalizing properties. Be sure to buy a product that contains natural moisturizers like shea butter, which repairs dry, flaky skin on the penis and returns it to its smooth state.