While the stereotypical male is tough enough to deal with a few minor aches, pains and discomforts, even the most manly of men can lose their cool when it comes to penis pain. What might seem like a minor bruise, cut or scrape anywhere else on the body can take on epic proportions in a guy’s mind when it occurs on the penis skin. Fortunately, even though life can throw some pretty unpleasant curveballs when it comes to skin conditions down there, most of them are not serious, and a few quick penis care strategies can help ease the pain and speed healing. Some common issues that can affect the penile skin, along with some tips for penis care, are discussed here.

  1. Red penis skin - Red, raw-looking penis skin can occur for a number of reasons. The friction associated with masturbation or sex is one of the most common causes; reactions to latex or spermicides, personal care products, or skin infections may also cause a red appearance. Dealing with a red penis depends on the cause. Often, just giving it a few days’ rest can do the trick. Men who have sensitive skin may want to try changing their shampoo, bath soap and detergent to a hypoallergenic variety; some men with sensitivities have good luck using shampoos and body washes designed for a baby’s delicate skin.
  1. Cuts or tears in the foreskin - Fissures and tears in the foreskin are common and can be quite painful. They are often the result of dry skin, which can be caused by dehydration, reactions to soaps and other personal care items, or even Candida yeast infections. A quick way to deal with sore, cracked penis skin is to apply a penis-specific moisturizing cream that can rehydrate and soften the skin. While a lotion or cream should never be rubbed into open sores, men who have overly dry and distressed foreskin can benefit from a quality moisturizer.
  1. Bumps and blemishes - Men who develop small bumps and blemishes on the penis are often understandably alarmed about a possible STD, but in many cases, they are really nothing more than pimples or ingrown hairs. While it is advisable to check any and all unusual penis lesions with a doctor, the more innocent varieties generally go away in a few days without any assistance. It is not a good idea to use facial acne creams on the penis skin, because they can contain harsh, drying chemicals. However, a penis cream containing vitamin A, which has natural antibacterial properties, may be useful in reducing the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
  1. Swelling - Swelling of the penis can be a sign of injury or infection, and while the cause may ultimately be nothing serious, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor if swelling occurs. Yeast infections and balanitis are common culprits and can be easily addressed; however, swelling may also indicate an STD or can result from an injury. To deal with the swelling and any associated pain, icing is ideal - men should just make sure that the ice does not come in direct contact with the skin. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories may also help for immediate relief while men wait for an appointment.

Penis protection and prevention of minor skin problems

The best offense, as they say, is a good defense; and this applies to overall health, as well as to the penis skin. While it is not possible to protect against everything that could go wrong, men can take some simple steps to reduce their chances of experiencing minor injuries and infections.

It goes without saying that wearing a condom for every encounter is essential in preventing STDs, not to mention less serious problems like yeast infection or friction-related injuries. Staying hydrated is also important, because this allows the natural lubricating properties of the penis to function correctly.

In addition, men can help to keep their skin smooth and supple by applying a penis health formula (most experts recommend Man1 Man Oil) that is fortified with skin-friendly vitamins like A, B5, C, D and E; as well as all-natural moisturizers made from botanical oils such as cocoa butter or Shea butter. By nourishing the skin on a daily basis, men can protect its integrity at the cellular level, helping to reduce the chances that an injury or infection will occur and allowing it to heal more quickly if it does get past the body’s defenses.