What is the treatment for cracks on the penile foreskin skin?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had a problem of cracked skin on my penis when it becomes erect and the foreskin retracts, for the past six to seven days. This problem does not occur when the penis is normal and not erect. I do not have pain and redness in the glans penis. My only problem is that my foreskin is tight and cracks when pushed back. What can I do about this? Could you suggest some cream?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will help you with your query.

The reason behind cracked skin is that when an erection occurs it stretches the tight foreskin which further causes cracks in some places. Sometimes an infection can also cause problems like dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, balanitis, etc. But infection can be ruled out only with a clinical examination. I would suggest you do the following.

If the cracks are only due to tight foreskin then you can use coconut oil, take some oil on your palm, and do a gentle massage on your tight skin once or twice a day. Do not forcefully retract your skin. It will help in loosening of skin. But it may take some time.
Personal hygiene is also of utmost importance. Keep your penile area clean and dry.
Wear comfortable inner garments.
Many corticosteroid gels and other hypoallergenic moisturizers that claim to help in loosening tight foreskin and cracks are available in the market. But I recommend you to not use any gel without clinical examination, because if the cracks are due to infection it may aggravate. As you have mentioned if you do not have any other associated symptoms like swelling and pain, then it is not likely to be an infection.
You can consult a nearby urologist to rule out infection.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.