5 Causes of Discoloration on the Penis and How to Cope
Not all men use tonics and potions created for their facial skin, preferring a more rugged look. But when it comes to their penises, men notice immediately when something seems to be off. Discoloration of the penis is one of those issues that often makes a man take notice of his skin; it can even lead to (often unnecessary) panic. Most cases of penile discoloration result from small injuries, and the discloration wll fade with time. However, there are a few other reasons for worry. Here are a few of the most common causes of discoloration on the penis and how to cope.
Bruising
One of the quickest ways to get a discolored penis is through injury. After a penile injury, bruising can appear in a variety of discolorations on the penis from purple to blue or even a greenish hue. If there is an excessive pain post-injury, seek medical attention immediately to rule out a more serious issue like a penile fracture.
Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
It’s completely normal for men to have some variance of skin coloration. However, if a man notices that skin has darkened suddenly or within a short span of time, it’s understandable he may worry. Most times it’s just post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is simply an overproduction of melanin, the body’s skin pigment maker. The skin can appear in a wide variety of colors including blue, gray, or dark brown.
Overproduction generally happens after an injury to the skin, the most common being excessive rubbing of the penis from vigorous sex or self-pleasure. It will fade over time or if a man is bothered by it, topical treatment with retinol each night before bed can accelerate results.
Penile Vitiligo
Vitiligo is known as the “white skin patch disease” and was made most famous by the late Michael Jackson. This skin disorder is caused by a loss of melanocytes, the skin cells that produce melanin. On the penis, vitiligo most often occurs as a discoloration on the foreskin. It must be diagnosed by a doctor through a physical exam. It can be treated with medication, creams, lasers and surgical techniques.
Hematoma
If a man is seeing red, blotchy skin or blood vessels under the surface of the skin, he may have a hematoma. This happens after an injury to the penis. The discoloration on the penis will fade in time; however, if he feels pain or discomfort, medical attention should be sought.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sometimes purple sores on the penis can be evidence of a sexually transmitted infection like genital herpes or syphilis. Both STIs are accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, fever, itchiness, burning, and fatigue. Head to a medical clinic or see a physician as soon as possible to be tested and get treatment.
Preventing and Caring for a Discolored Penis
First and foremost, practice safe sex. Use a condom to prevent STIs, and always have an open dialogue about sexual and medical history with partners, even if it ruins the mood. Next, wear appropriate protective gear during group or adventure sports so that the penis is not an unfortunate casualty of a pick-up basketball game. Also, be sure to monitor the vigorousness of sex and self-gratification so pleasure doesn’t turn painful.
In addition to those tips, practice good grooming to keep the penis in top shape. Cleanse regularly and thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Follow up with a specifically formulated penis health cream such as Man1 Man Oil to soften and soothe the penis. This specially created crème includes vitamins and nutrients like vitamins A, B5, C, D, and E to promote healthy skin and cellular function, and Alpha-Lipoic Acid to reduce the signs of cellular damage and aging. Daily use will leave the penis hydrated and healed.
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Check out this video on discolored penile skin.
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