Living with a smelly penis can be embarrassing, and men who are unable to erase that fishy odor may find themselves alone, or at least kept at arm’s length. For some men, a foul-smelling penis can be a serious problem, undermining their self-confidence and preventing them from getting close to a potential partner. Even men who shower every day and spend time on grooming their parts can have problems with penile odor; for these men, the problem is especially frustrating, as it seems like there is no resolution.

Fortunately, in most cases, there are things men can do to remove even the most unpleasant aromas. Using a penis health creme as part of a daily penis care routine can help keep things fresh and appealing.

What causes penis odor?

There are a number of things that can cause an unpleasant smell to waft from the groin area; this part of the anatomy is particularly prone to harboring a variety of stinky substances. Stale urine, bacteria, sweat, and other body fluids can remain on the skin and hair, and if proper attention is not given to hygiene, a distinctive stench can develop. One common culprit, most common in men who are uncircumcised, is a material known as smegma, which can accumulate under the foreskin.

What is smegma, anyway?

Smegma refers to the cheesy white substance that often builds up underneath the male foreskin. It is made up of dead skin cells that have sloughed off and combined with skin oils; the pungent smell is the result of the bacteria that are attracted to this material.

Smegma can cause considerable problems if it is not cleaned away. It can cause the foreskin to stick to the head of the penis, causing foreskin pain during sex or masturbation, and it can lead to an infection known as balanitis.

Clearing the air

In order to get rid of unpleasant penis smells, the first step is to clean away any smegma under the foreskin or anywhere else on the penis. Men should pull the foreskin back carefully, never forcing it, and gently wipe away any material. Using a gentle, hypoallergenic cleanser may help, but it is best to avoid ordinary soaps, as they can be harsh and drying.

The skin should be dried thoroughly before replacing the foreskin, and sticking with breathable cotton underwear is recommended. In addition, applying a penis health creme can help to address some of the causes of penis odor.

3 ways a penis health cream can help

1. Natural antibacterial properties. A good penis formula should contain ingredients such as vitamin A, which is a natural antibacterial and can help to eliminate odor-causing microorganisms.

2. Moisturizing properties. Keeping the skin well-hydrated is essential when it comes to keeping odors down. Dry, cracked skin allows bacteria to penetrate, not only leading to nasty smells, but also upping the risk for infection.

3. Disease-fighting properties. Nutrients such as vitamins C, B5 and D are essential when it comes to promoting the body’s natural disease-fighting ability. Using these ingredients in combination with moisturizing creams can help boost the body’s natural defenses against infection and the accompanying discomfort, discharge and odor.

Finding the right formula

There are countless moisturizing creams and vitamin-enriched lotions available, but not all of these are designed for the penis, and many do not have what it takes to counteract a fishy male aroma. A specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) that is fortified with vitamin A - a natural antibacterial - may be the best solution. A good product should contain natural moisturizers, as well, and should not contain any fragrances, dyes or other chemical additives that can be hard on the delicate penis skin.