HomeAnswersDermatologybalanitisWhy do I have a friction burn with crusty and flaky skin on the tip of my penis?

What does a friction burn with crusty and flaky skin on the tip of the penis indicate?

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Published At November 9, 2022
Reviewed AtNovember 24, 2022

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a friction burn on the tip of my penis. The skin is crusty and flaky. There is no itching sensation or discomfort. The issue is just cosmetic.

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

I read your query and understand your concern. Based on the symptoms, it appears to be balanitis. Balanitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the glans penis, including the tip of the penis and sometimes the foreskin. It is caused due to multiple factors, including bacterial and fungal infections, eczema, psoriasis, contact with allergens or strong chemicals in the form of soaps or shampoos to wash the area, and underlying medical conditions. It may present with red to white lesions and clear, scaly, and dry areas.

I suggest you to follow a few instructions mentioned below.

1. Mupirocin two percent cream (topical antibiotic) may be applied twice daily on the affected area. Apply, and massage till it is absorbed well. It helps with preventing secondary infections.

2. Use penile care moisturizer on the affected areas once daily in the afternoon to keep the area hydrated.

3. Take nutritional supplements like capsule Omega-3 once daily at night for one month.

4. Kindly use lukewarm salt water to wash the area daily instead of soap.

5. Use Emollient, or bath formula - one cap mixed with one liter of water can be used to wash the affected area at night. This helps in keeping the area hydrated.

6. Avoid using harsh chemicals, including soaps, for washing or cleaning the area.

7. Avoid oily, fried food, dairy products, red meat, and sweets. Make sure to include a healthy diet in the form of fruits, vegetables, and fiber, and consume at least 14 glasses of water in a 250 ml glass size per day to stay hydrated.

8. In case of any discharge or secretions, you should undergo a swab test to rule out the presence of bacteria via culture and sensitivity. It is usually done at laboratories or by a dermatologist in person.

Please attach an image of the affected lesion for inspection and assessment for confirmatory diagnosis and management.

I hope this has helped you. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty
Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty

Venereology

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