Male Genital Skin Conditions

Lichen sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that specifically affects the skin around your genitals. It’s more common in uncircumcised men and is often associated with dribbling of urine. 

The cause of lichen sclerosus is not fully understood, but it’s thought to be an autoimmune condition that may be triggered by irritation from urine trapped between the penis and foreskin. 

Symptoms of lichen sclerosus include: 

• itching, soreness, a red rash and/or white patches on your genitals

• tightness and difficulty retracting your foreskin 

• fragile, easily damaged patches of skin that may be painful or bleed if rubbed or scratched

• painful erections and pain during sex 

Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the skin and mucus membranes. It’s thought to be caused by an autoimmune disease, which may then be triggered by external factors like stress, viral infections and some medications. 

Symptoms of genital lichen planus in men include: 

• blotchy, wrinkled, smooth, or discoloured patches of skin 

• small papules (bumps) on the top of the penis, which may develop into a ring

• itching, burning, and soreness, especially during or after sex

• fragile skin that can bruise or tear easily 

• blisters or open sores on your genitals 

• tightening and difficulty retracting your foreskin

• tearing of your foreskin 

• painful erections

• scarring around your genital area

• changes in your urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of your penis) 

• problems with urination, such as more frequent urination, urinary spraying or dribbling or a weaker urine stream

Zoon’s balanitis

Zoon's balanitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that usually occurs in uncircumcised middle-aged or older men. The cause is unknown. 

Symptoms of Zoon’s balanitis include: 

• shiny, moist, red or brown patches on your penis and/or foreskin

• in some cases, small, dark red or brownish speckles (stippling) 

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects around 2% of the population. It’s an autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks your own tissues. Genetics are also thought to play a role. 

Anogenital psoriasis can affect the skin on your pubic area, penis, scrotum, groin crease, perianal skin, and buttocks. The condition can be made worse by friction and contact with urine and faeces.  

Symptoms of anogenital psoriasis in men include:

• red or purple patches on your skin

• pain, itching, burning, and stinging

• skin dryness, leading to cracking and discomfort

Genital warts

Genital warts are common and caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that spreads through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can be passed on even when no visible warts are present. 

You may have single warts or clusters, which may look like a cauliflower. You may not experience symptoms for weeks, months, or even years after you contract the infection. 

Symptoms of genital warts include: 

• small, fleshy growths, bumps, or skin changes that can be red, brown, skin-coloured, or darker than the surrounding skin

• in some cases, your warts may itch, bleed or cause discomfort

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection caused by a pox virus. It’s spread by close skin-to-skin contact or sharing contaminated items and commonly affects the genitals. 

Symptoms of molluscum contagiosum include: 

• small, firm, white, or flesh-coloured bumps on your skin

• in some cases, redness, swelling, or itching may develop 

Scabies

Scabies is a condition that’s caused by a mite that burrows into the surface of the skin. It’s spread through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. 

Symptoms of scabies include:

• an intense itchy rash of tiny red spots or bumps that is often worse at night

• short, wavy, silver-coloured lines on the skin

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It’s spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. People with genital herpes experience outbreaks where they have symptoms, followed by periods where the virus is dormant (inactive). 

Symptoms of genital herpes include: 

• a tingling, itching or burning sensation before the blisters develop 

• small, painful, fluid-filled blisters around your genital, anal, or buttock areas that burst to form red sores before crusting over 

• flu-like symptoms such as a headache, fever, muscle aches and fatigue

The symptoms of male genital skin conditions vary depending on the condition you have and the severity of your symptoms. 

Some general symptoms of male genital skin conditions may include: 

• skin changes such as redness, discolouration, flaking, patches, dryness, or thickening of your skin

• pain, itching, burning, or soreness

• pain or discomfort when urinating or during sexual activity

• sores, blisters, ulcers, spots, lesions, or abnormal lumps or bumps

• inflammation of the skin on your penis and foreskin (balanoposthitis) 

• a tight foreskin 

• unusual discharge or an unpleasant smell from your genital area

Male genital skin conditions have several causes, including: 

• bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like genital herpes and genital warts 

• skin irritation or allergies caused by contact with substances such as latex, sweat, urine/faeces, or chemicals in hygiene products and laundry detergent 

• poor hygiene 

• long-term skin conditions like lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, and psoriasis, that spread from other areas of the body

At your first Welbeck consultation, you’ll be seen by a consultant dermatologist. They’ll ask you about your symptoms, general health, medical history and any medications you take regularly. They’ll also perform a physical examination. 

Your consultant may be able to make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and physical examination, or they may arrange some tests to help identify the cause of your symptoms or confirm your diagnosis.

These may include: 

• blood tests

• skin biopsy or skin scraping 

• a swab of your genital area

Male genital skin conditions can't always be prevented, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of them developing, including: 

• keep your genital area clean by washing daily with a mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water, and gently patting dry with a clean towel 

• don’t use harsh products such as soaps, perfumed products, or powders on your genital area

• prevent irritation from sweat and friction by wearing loose-fitting underwear made from natural fabrics like cotton 

• don’t share personal items like towels or razors with others

• make sure you’re up to date with vaccinations such as HPV and hepatitis B

• use condoms during sex to help prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• check your genitals regularly for any changes or abnormalities, and see a doctor if you notice anything unusual

Male genital skin conditions are usually treatable and not serious, but in some cases, untreated skin conditions can lead to long-term complications. The type of complication depends on your diagnosis, but may include: 

• spread of infection – untreated genital infections can spread from the genital area to other parts of your body 

• scarring – conditions like lichen sclerosus can cause scarring that may affect your urinary and sexual function

• complications of balanitis – inflammation and swelling of your penis and/or foreskin can lead to scarring, phimosis (inability to retract your foreskin), or narrowing of your urethra

• increased risk of penile cancer – can be caused by conditions such as lichen sclerosus

• psychological and emotional issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety and depression 

• sexual dysfunction  

• relationship issues 

• problems urinating 

• an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Treatment for male genital skin conditions depends on your diagnosis. 

Your dermatologist will assess your condition, provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment. 

Treatment for male genital skin conditions may include:

• emollients and moisturisers to improve your skin’s natural barrier 

• antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals to treat infection

• corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation 

• phototherapy to treat conditions like psoriasis 

• immunosuppressants to treat some autoimmune conditions 

• surgery, such as circumcision, to treat problems such as a tight foreskin

At Welbeck, our men’s health specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialities, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.