A penis is a man’s pride and joy, so it’s why when he sees it looking a little off, he doesn’t think it’s a big deal. Maybe it’s a bit blue and achy or red and painful to the touch. There is a world of things that could be causing it. The most common reason for penis discoloration is Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation or mild bruising. However, there are other times when penile skin discoloration is a warning signal of something dangerous that needs medical attention now! Here's four dangerous, and sometimes mortal, reasons for a man to keep a close watch on the rainbow of colors that may affect his penis.

1) Penile Cancer. Yes, cancer is probably one of the scariest words in existence, but trying to ignore it doesn’t make it go away. Discolored penile skin is the first sign of penile cancer. The discoloration can happen anywhere, including under the foreskin, so men who are not circumcised should be sure to retract the foreskin regularly to monitor any skin issues. Other signs of penile cancer include reddish rash, sour-smelling discharge, lumps, pain in the penis, thickening of the penile skin, and flat, bluish-brown growths. See a doctor immediately for a physical exam.

2) Hematomas. A hematoma is a serious bruise that’s gone too far. How can a man tell the difference between a bruise and a hematoma? A bruise is generally a darkening of the skin to a dark purple, blue, or green tint. A hematoma, on the other hand, takes on the same hue, yet becomes lumpy as blood pools below it. This can lead to a very severe loss of blood flow, which is quite dangerous. See a doctor immediately to prevent the rupture of a major penile vein. In the meantime, use icepacks to bring down swelling and ibuprofen to deal with any pain.

3) Stevens-Johnson Syndrome – The disease is a lesser-known, but desperately serious issue. It is technically an allergic reaction to something, usually a based medication such as anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, sulfa-based antibiotics, and even OTC pain relievers like naproxen and ibuprofen. The rash is a very specific purple color. If it progresses to sores and peeling skin, head to the emergency room immediately. This reaction can lead to death if not treated quickly. Expect some time in the hospital as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome requires a full range of professional care, which usually takes place in a burn unit or ICU to give an idea of the severity of the cause. Patients will have to stay in the hospital until they grow new skin, and the infection is completely gone, which can take several weeks or months.

4) Zoon’s Balanitis – Balanitis is a somewhat common issue among men. However, Zoon’s Balanitis is a nonthreatening illness that can last from months to years. Zoon’s mostly affects middle-aged to elderly men with uncircumcised penises. The first sign is a smooth, shiny penile skin discoloration of an orange-to red or reddish-brown patch on the head of the penis. The patch will grow over time if not treated. This can lead to pain, tenderness, issues with foreskin retractions, and the inability to have sex as it is too painful. It is thought to be caused by poor hygiene, smegma stones, excessive rubbing, and, potentially, HPV. Treatment is most often a prescribed high-potency corticosteroid cream or a CO2 laser.

How to Prevent Discolored Penile Skin

Preventing penis discoloration doesn’t have to be hard; it’s quite easy with a few practical steps. First, schedule and attend annual check-ups. Second, conduct a weekly penis self-exam to take note of any irregularities or pain. Third, protect the penis from bumps and bruising that can result from intense sports or rougher sex.

Finally, a comprehensive daily grooming regimen will keep a penis so healthy that any abnormal skin coloration or texture issues will be noticed immediately for fast treatment. Wash the penis regularly with a mild cleanser, giving special attention to all the folds of the genital area. Rinse thoroughly and pat or air dry. Seal the deal with a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) to hydrate and nurture the penis. These specifically created crèmes provide vitamins and nutrients like vitamins A, B5, C, D, and E topically to encourage strong skin and cellular function. Amino acids like L-Arginine and L-Carnitine help to safe-guard the penis from nerve damage and promote healthy blood flow. This extra step supports penis vitality and results in exemplary overall penis health.