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Concerns About Genital Skin Damage

4/3/2025, 4:00:41 AMMale25-34

Greetings, I’ve been dealing with a skin issue related to the way I used to masturbate during my younger years. My technique involved rubbing the tip of my penis against the lower part of my abdomen, situated just above the base. This has resulted in significant skin damage, manifesting as deep fissures that resemble narrow ravines. Although the skin is not dry when I am flaccid, it turns rough and coarse because of these grooves. I'm looking for advice on how to address this condition apart from seeking in-person medical assistance, as it has made me feel extremely self-conscious and has negatively impacted my self-esteem. I’ve struggled to find similar cases online, likely because I am unique in inflicting this upon myself. Any suggestions for ointments or treatments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you to anyone who can provide insight.

Lifestyle ChangesFamily MedicineInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

4/3/2025, 4:01:11 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel concerned about skin issues, especially when they cause discomfort and affect your self-esteem. Based on your description, it looks like you have developed deep fissures on the skin at the tip of your penis due to previous friction. This can happen with various forms of irritation or trauma over time. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help manage and heal the area.

Main Points:

  1. Moisturizing and Healing: Focus on using appropriate topical treatments to promote healing.
  2. Gentle Care: Avoid further irritation by being cautious with any activity that could stress the skin.
  3. Monitoring Changes: Keep track of any changes to the condition to understand what works best.

Explanation:

The rough and coarse texture you’re experiencing is likely due to the skin trying to heal itself from the repeated friction. The fissures can be classified as a type of irritation, and while they might feel uncomfortable, they often can improve with proper care.

Next Steps:

  1. Moisture Retention:

    • Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer regularly. Look for products containing ingredients like petrolatum (petroleum jelly), aquaphor, or glycerin to lock in moisture and promote healing.
  2. Avoid Irritation:

    • While the area heals, avoid activities that might cause further friction. This may include certain masturbation techniques or tight clothing. Opt for loose-fitting underwear and pants made from soft fabrics.
  3. Consider Over-the-Counter Treatments:

    • You may use a hydrocortisone cream (1%) to help with any inflammation or soreness, applying it sparingly. However, do not use it for extended periods without a break.
  4. Monitor Your Condition:

    • Keep an eye on any changes to the fissures or any new symptoms (like increased pain or redness). You could maintain a simple diary noting how the skin feels and what you did (e.g., any treatments used) to identify what might help or worsen the condition over time.
  5. Seek Professional Help if Necessary:

    • If your symptoms do not improve with these measures in a few weeks, or if they worsen, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional when you feel comfortable. They can assess your situation more thoroughly and provide tailored advice.

Remember that skin healing can take time, so be patient with your recovery. Take care, and I hope you find these steps helpful in improving the condition.

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