A man will likely see many scabs throughout his life. It’s to be expected in any sort of active lifestyle. However, when a penis scab shows up, it can be a much scarier experience. It could be something as simple as an allergic reaction or as humbling as a sexually transmitted infection. While other scabs can be ignored, a scab on the penis can be more painful than when it appears on other parts of the body. Scabs on the penis can also require a different kind of treatment than one on a knee or elbow. The penis is a very sensitive appendage with thin, delicate skin, so treatment must be gentle but effective. Here are a few causes of penis scabs, how to treat them, and finally, how to prevent them from showing up in the first place.

Allergy

Penis scabs can be a result of an allergic reaction. There are many different types of allergens form body products to laundry detergents to latex condoms. In addition to scabs on the penis, allergic reactions can also cause watery eyes, redness, rash, itching, and general discomfort. Clean the area thoroughly a few times each day and apply a cortisone crème. Take an antihistamine or ibuprofen for pain.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition where new skin cells are produced faster than the body can shed old skin cells. This creates a build-up of dead skin cells, which can look like dry patches or scabs on the penis. See a doctor for diagnosis and a prescription ointment for relief.

The following causes all require a trip to the doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by Human papillomavirus (HPV), though a man can have HPV without having warts. Some bumps can be hard to see, while others can be quite large and flesh-colored. They are generally painless, but itchy. They turn into penis scabs if a man irritates or scratches at them, leading to a more extended recovery period. Treatment can include topical creams, freezing warts off, and in some more severe cases, surgery.

Lymphogranuloma venereum

A variety of chlamydia causes lymphogranuloma venereum. It shows up as one or more, sometimes painless, sores on the penis. They may also scab over even if a man is still contagious.

Genital herpes

Anywhere from two days to two weeks, a man will start to see small bumps or blisters on the penis. They can soon evolve into oozing or bleeding ulcers, which will then turn into scabs on the penis. There may also be pain and itching. Herpes is for life, but antiviral medications can prevent flareups.

Syphilis

Syphilis can be a life-threatening disease that may appear as penis scabs. A bacterial infection causes the scabs on the penis. This sore can be painless and can sometimes go unnoticed. Even if the sore goes away on its own, a man still needs to be tested, because if he is diagnosed, he needs treatment immediately or he risks a fatal outcome. A shot of penicillin in the most common treatment.

Penis Scab Prevention

There are many ways to prevent a man from getting scabs on his penis. Here are a few that are very easy to incorporate immediately:

1) If a man is sexually active, he should be screened every three months (monthly if he has more than one partner at a time) at a local clinic or by a healthcare professional.

2) Wear a condom during sex and use a barrier method for oral sex.

3) Avoid any kind of skin-to-skin contact with someone who has or a man suspects of having a contagious skin condition.

4) Do not share linens or clothing with anyone who has a contagious skin condition.

5) Wear clean underwear and change and wash immediately after a workout.

6) Practice good hygiene! Shower regularly with a mild cleaner, thoroughly washing the area and rinsing well. After a soft, pat dry, apply a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) to keep skin fresh, blemish-free, and to protect against infection.