Penile itching home remedies 

Scratching can relieve a penis itch, but this relief may only be temporary. And if you scratch too much, there’s the risk of injury and possible skin infection. A few home remedies may soothe an itch and stop inflammation.

Cold compress

This remedy may relieve itching caused by scabies, contact dermatitis, or an ingrown hair. Apply a wet, cold cloth to your penis for 5 to 10 minutes, or apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel. The cooling effect of a cold compress can also ease inflammation caused by balanitis or urethritis.

Colloidal oatmeal

The anti-inflammatory properties of this oatmeal can reduce skin irritation like itchiness and dryness. Prepare an oatmeal bath by sprinkling oatmeal grounds into lukewarm water.

Apple cider vinegar

If psoriasis causes your penis itch, apple cider vinegar may stop itching and irritation. Mix one-part apple cider vinegar with one-part water. Apply the solution directly to the penis, and then rinse once the mixture dries.

Don’t apply vinegar if you have a crack or break in the skin, or else the skin may burn.

Dead Sea salt

Another remedy for penis itch due to psoriasis is Dead Sea salt or Epsom salt. Add salt to warm bath water and soak for about 15 minutes.

Baking soda

If you have thrush or a yeast infection on your penis, applying baking soda may reduce itchiness. Add 1 cup of baking soda to a lukewarm bath and soak, or mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to your penis, and then rinse off a few minutes.

Medical treatments for penis itching

You may need an over-the-counter or prescription topical cream if home remedies aren’t effective. The type of medication depends on the underlying cause of penile itching.

Options include:

• antibiotic (relieves an infection caused by bacteria on the skin)
• steroid creams and hydrocortisone (relieves skin itching, redness, and inflammation)
• antifungal medication (eliminates fungal infections, including yeast infections)
• antihistamine (relieves skin irritation caused by allergies)

When to see a doctor? 

Some causes of penis itch don’t require you seeing a doctor. For example, an ingrown hair will heal on its own in about a week. Likewise, itching, redness, and inflammation from contact dermatitis may go away once you’re no longer exposed to the allergen or irritant.

Some conditions, however, may not go away without treatment.

See a doctor if a penis itch is severe or doesn’t improve, or if you have accompanying symptoms like discharge, blisters, pain, or a rash.

A doctor may be able to diagnose the cause of penis itch after examining your skin. Or, they may swab your penis and send the sample to a lab. This can confirm or rule out a virus, bacteria, and fungal infections.

Preventing penis itching  

Avoid substances that cause irritation if you have contact dermatitis. This includes scented and perfumed soaps, and certain fabrics or materials.

Practicing good hygiene can also reduce itching. Bathe or shower daily and thoroughly rinse soap from your private area. Make sure you clean underneath your foreskin to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria, which can cause irritation and itching.

It’s also important to completely dry your body after bathing. Moisture can encourage the growth of yeast.

If you have a history of ingrown hairs, avoid close shaves, shave in the direction of hair growth, and apply shaving cream before shaving to soften your skin.

Also, wear loose-fitting underwear. Tight underwear can cause friction and a skin rash.

Takeaway 

Don’t ignore persistent penile itching. Even though home remedies are often the first line of defense, see a doctor if itching doesn’t improve or worsens, or if you have other symptoms.