Balanitis is when the head of the penis gets red, swollen, and sore. It’s like getting a rash on that sensitive skin. It happens more often in guys who aren’t circumcised (still have their foreskin), but anyone can get it.
Not cleaning well – Germs and sweat can build up under the foreskin
Yeast infection – The same kind that causes diaper rash or vaginal infections
Bacteria – From dirty hands, sex, or not washing enough
Harsh soaps or sprays – These can irritate the skin
Diabetes – Makes infections more likely (sugar feeds germs)
Tight foreskin – Makes it hard to clean properly
Red, shiny, or raw skin on the penis head
Itching or burning (especially when you pee)
White, clumpy stuff (like cottage cheese) under the foreskin
Bad smell
Sometimes small cracks or sores
Wash gently – Use warm water (no soap or just a tiny bit of mild soap)
Dry carefully – Pat dry with a clean towel (damp skin makes it worse)
Use cream – An antifungal (like for athlete’s foot) if it’s yeast, or antibiotic cream if it’s bacteria
Wear loose underwear – Tight clothes rub and make it worse
✔ Clean daily – Pull back the foreskin (if you have one) and rinse with water
✔ Avoid irritants – No strong soaps, colognes, or sprays down there
✔ Pee after sex – Helps flush out germs
✔ Check for diabetes – If you get balanitis a lot, ask your doctor
If it doesn’t get better in 3-4 days
If there’s pus, bad pain, or fever
If your foreskin gets stuck and won’t pull back
Good news: Balanitis usually clears up fast with simple care! But ignoring it can lead to worse infections, so don’t wait too long to treat it.
Still worried? A doctor can help figure out the cause and best treatment.
