Persistent Friction Injury on Penis: Seeking Solutions
Over the past year, I (22, male) have been dealing with an issue I suspect is a friction burn on my penis that has failed to heal. I believe my occasional masturbation might have contributed to this, but there have been stretches where I completely abstained for three weeks without any improvement. The affected area is quite noticeable, roughly the size of a quarter, and despite the passage of months, its appearance has remained unchanged, and it is not accompanied by any pain. The darker red edges around it have also maintained their size and shape without any variation. I previously attempted to treat it with hydrocortisone cream (1%), but I stopped using it out of concern that it could exacerbate the problem. Additionally, I applied hydrating substances like Aquaphor, aloe vera, and unrefined coconut oil on a daily basis, yet neither approach seemed to yield any positive results. I also experimented with covering the area using plastic wrap because I feel that the way my penis rests on my scrotum might be causing friction at the site of the burn. Unfortunately, I have struggled to keep any covering securely in place. I am looking for advice on whether there is a possibility of this injury healing and what steps I might take to facilitate the recovery process.
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 2:40:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been dealing with a persistent issue on your penis for quite some time, and your concerns about it not healing are completely understandable. Let’s break down the situation and consider steps you can take to promote healing.
Main Points:
- Persistent friction injuries can take a long time to heal, especially if there is continued irritation.
- Avoiding further irritation is crucial for recovery.
- Certain topical treatments and alternative approaches can help facilitate healing.
Explanation:
Friction injuries on sensitive skin, including the penis, can be hard to heal if the area continues to experience irritation. Factors like constant friction (from clothing or skin), moisture, or inadequate healing time can all contribute to the issue remaining static. The red edges you mentioned might indicate inflammation, which can happen when the area is agitated.
Since you have already tried hydrocortisone cream and a few moisturizing agents without improvement, it might be time to focus on a more targeted approach to avoid further friction and irritation.
Next Steps:
-
Minimize Friction:
- Wear Loose-Fitting Underwear: Choose breathable, loose-fitting underwear made from cotton to reduce friction. Avoid tight clothing that may rub against the area.
- Avoid Irritating Substances: Steer clear of perfumed soaps or lotions that could irritate the skin.
-
Limit Masturbation for Now:
- It may be beneficial to refrain from masturbation or any activity that may cause friction in the area for a period of time until it shows signs of healing.
-
Moisturization:
- Continue using gentle moisturizers like aloe vera or an unscented lotion, but do it sparingly. Frequent application of thick creams might provide a protective barrier. Avoid anything that feels sticky or might trap moisture too much.
-
Protect the Area:
- Instead of plastic wrap, consider using a specialized protective dressing designed for sensitive skin; these can provide a more secure protective layer and facilitate healing without causing discomfort.
-
Observe for Changes:
- Keep track of any changes in the appearance of the area or any new symptoms. If you notice any changes, such as increased redness, swelling, or the development of pain, it’s important to address these quickly.
-
Patience with Healing:
- Understand that skin takes time to heal, especially in sensitive areas. Be kind to yourself as this process can be slow.
If you see no improvement after following these steps for a couple of weeks, it could be worth looking into whether there might be another underlying condition that needs medical assessment. Remember, your comfort and well-being are important, so taking these steps can help in healing. Let me know if you have any further questions!
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