Spots on the penis are not always a sign of a serious condition, but they can be. Understanding what causes them and how they are treated can help men make informed decisions about their penis health. The conditions listed below are just some of the common causes. Men who develop penile rash, ulcers, or spots should see their doctor for evaluation and treatment.

1) Pimples. Acne spots can occur anywhere on the body, and unfortunately, not even the penis is immune. Pimples appear as raised bumps on the skin that may be red or flesh-colored; they are often filled with pus. The best treatment for pimples on the penis is to leave them alone; popping or squeezing them can make the problem worse, and medications intended for use on the face are generally too harsh for the penile skin. Most pimples clear up on their own in a few days.

2) Molluscum contagiousum. Thisbenign viral condition can cause raised, firm red spots to appear anywhere on the body. When they occur on the genitals, molluscum contagiosum is considered a sexually transmitted disease, as the virus can be easily passed to a partner during intimate contact. There is no cure for the virus, but it usually clears up on its own - although this can take a year or more. Doctors may be able to remove the lesions through an outpatient procedure.

3) Petechiae. Petechia appear as pinpoint red spots under the skin. They are caused by broken capillaries underneath the skin’s surface, usually as a result of friction. On the penis, use of vacuum pumps has been shown to cause petechiae. These spots typically resolve on their own.

4) Inflamed follicles. Inflamed or infected hair follicles can appear as raised, red spots; these usually occur around the base of the penis or anywhere else that hair grows. As with pimples, it is best to leave these alone rather than try to squeeze them. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the skin well-moisturized can speed the healing process and help prevent them from coming back.

5) Herpes sores . A single blister or ulcer on the penis, especially located on the head, can be a sign of genital herpes. This sexually transmitted infection does not have a cure, and men who have it will need to take medications throughout their lives to keep it under control. Herpes can be transmitted to a sexual partner even when there are no visible symptoms. Men who are infected should talk to their doctor about how to avoid spreading the disease.

6) Thrush. This fungal infection is caused by candida yeast, which is also responsible for feminine yeast infection. It can produce a red, itchy rash, dry skin, and a whitish, lumpy discharge. Antifungal creams are needed to clear up a yeast infection.

7) Balanitis. This inflammatory condition mainly affects uncircumcised men. It is characterized by a red rash on the glans and under the foreskin, swelling, redness and soreness. While it is bacterial in origin, treatment is focused on keeping the area clean and free of smegma.

8) Jock itch. Another fungal infection, jock itch mainly appears as a red, spreading, itchy rash in the groin area; in some cases, it may also spread onto the penis. Antifungal creams are used to treat this condition. Men can reduce their chances of infection by wearing clean clothing, avoiding the sharing of towels and other personal items, and keeping the area clean and dry.

9) Eczema. Also known as dermatitis, eczema can appear as a raised, red, itchy rash. Most men who have eczema on the penis have it on other parts of their bodies, as well. Treatment may involve the use of cortisone creams; applying a high-end moisturizer before using a cortisone product can help relieve the itch and speed healing.

Men should never attempt to self-diagnose any penis condition, as many different types of problems have similar symptoms, and some conditions can be serious. However, every man can take steps to reduce his chances of infection by using protection during sex, maintaining good hygiene, and scheduling regular checkups with a doctor. Men may also choose to supplement their personal care regimen with a high-end penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that contains essential vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants that are important to the overall health of the penile skin.