Cut on Penis & Foreskin: Causes, Treatments, FAQs & More

Hurting your penis is never easy. In fact, it is more painful than injuring other parts of your body because male genitals have thousands of nerve endings that are extremely sensitive. Cuts on the penis are discomforting but don't worry; they can be treated.

What Can Cause A Cut On The Penis?

A cut or tear on the penis can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some common causes of penis cuts:

1. Aggressive Sexual Activity

Rough or aggressive sexual activity can cause cuts or tears on the penis. This can happen during intercourse, oral sex, or masturbation.

2. Dry Skin

Dry skin can crack and cause cuts or tears, especially in the genital area. This can be due to lack of hydration, use of harsh soaps or cleansers, or certain medical conditions.

3. Friction

Friction caused by rubbing against clothing or other surfaces can cause cuts or tears on the penis. This can happen if you wear tight or rough clothing, or if you engage in activities that involve a lot of movement.

4. Yeast Infection

When a fungus (known as candida) grows and thrives on moist skin, it causes yeast infections. This includes the area around the penis's head. Uncircumcised men and boys with foreskin should take special care in this area. A yeast infection can cause skin redness and itching, as well as white discharge and blisters. A yeast infection can be avoided by practising good hygiene.

5. STDs

Safe sex can help you maintain a generally healthy and active lifestyle. Research shows that if you or your partner has a sexually transmitted disease (STD), your penis and genitals may experience pain and irritation. Sexually transmitted diseases can also hasten the development of penile blisters and sores.

6. Balanitis

Balanitis is caused by a yeast infection around the head of the penis. This can result in discomfort, swelling, and irritation. Balanitis, which is not contagious, can be caused by a virus or bacterial infection contracted through a cut on the penis head. Balanitis is more common in uncircumcised men and boys. Balanitis affects 10% of the male population at some point in their lives.

7. Injury

Trauma to the penis, such as getting hit or kicked, can cause cuts or tears.

8. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, can cause dry, flaky skin that is more prone to cuts and tears. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also cause cuts or sores on the penis.

9. Harsh Chemicals

Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or cleaning products, can irritate the skin and cause cuts or tears.

10. Razor Burn

Shaving or trimming pubic hair can cause razor burn, which can lead to cuts or tears.

11. Phimosis

Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin is too tight to be retracted, which can lead to cuts or tears during sexual activity or masturbation.

12. Peyronie's Disease

According to studies, Peyronie's disease is a condition in which scar tissue develops inside the penis, causing it to bend or curve during erections. This can cause pain and potentially lead to cuts or tears.

13. Allergic Reactions

Some people may be allergic to certain materials, such as latex or spermicide, which can cause skin irritation and lead to cuts or tears.

Also read: What is Balanitis?

Cuts on Foreskin Causes

The following reasons can cause cuts on the foreskin or a foreskin tear:

1. Tight Clothing Causes Cuts on the Penis

Wearing tight clothing can cause friction around the genital area. Tight underwear can also lead to the buildup of moisture in your foreskin. This creates a breeding ground for fungal infections that can increase the dryness of the foreskin.

2. Dry Sex Causes Cuts on the Penis

Indulging in prolonged sex without lubrication causes excessive friction. This can result in cuts on the penis or foreskin that eventually leads to flaking, itching or peeling.

3. Soaps or Shampoos Cause Cuts on the Penis

Many soaps and shampoos contain harsh chemicals that have a drying effect on the penis. You can wash your penis with a mild soap sensitive to the skin. Rinse off any residual product with warm water.

4. Dry Masturbation Causes Cuts on the Penis

Dry masturbation results in excessive friction that can cause cuts or tears on your foreskin. You require a lotion or lube for your foreskin to move back and forth smoothly.

5. Zipper Injury Causes Cuts on the Penis

Zipping your jeans too fast can lead to your foreskin getting caught on the zipper. You might require a doctor's help in removing it carefully.

6. Phimosis Causes Cuts on the Penis

This condition results in a foreskin that is too tight to be retracted from the tip of the penis. Minor cuts can appear if adult men with phimosis try to pull back their foreskin forcefully.

What Should I do About Cuts on Penile Skin?

Usually, cuts on the penis are not a cause for worry. Like any other minor wound, cuts on penile skin heal within a few days. However, during that time, you can experience little pain in activities that expand your penile skin.

Cut on the Penis Treatment

You can treat minor cuts on penile skin through basic first aid.

Wash your hands with soap before treating a cut
Rinse the cut with water and wash the area around the wound with a mild soap. Do not put soap over the cut.
Take some clean gauze and press it lightly over the cut to stop any bleeding.
You can also apply an antibiotic ointment for foreskin tears to moisten the area around the cut.
Now, cover the wound with gauze and secure it with a piece of medical tape.
Change the dressing daily until the cut heals.

What are the Home Remedies for Wounds & Cut on Penis

There are a few home remedies that you can try to prevent and manage cuts on the penis.

1. Massage

Use herbal oils to massage your genital area gently. It will ensure that your penis is moisturised daily.

2. Wear condoms

Use condoms during sexual activities. Condoms provide an extra layer of protection over your penis that protects it from excessive friction and irritation.

3. Soaps

Avoid using harsh soaps and cleansers that can irritate and dry your penile skin.

4. Good Hygiene

Wash your penis with mild soap and water daily to prevent any yeast infection resulting in dryness and cuts. Maintaining good genital hygiene is very important for men with foreskins. Irregularly washing under your foreskin can risk a buildup of smegma that consists of bacteria, dead skin cells and oil. This can later lead to inflammation of the foreskin, which causes pain and soreness.

5. Masturbation and Sex

If a cut on the penis is causing you pain, then avoid Masturbation or sex for a few days until the cuts heal.

6. Jockstrap

You can use jockstraps or athletic cups during heavy physical activities to keep your genitals in one place and prevent any scratch on the penis.

How to Prevent Penis Cuts?

Here are some tips to prevent penis cuts:

1. Use Lubrication

Using a lubricant during sexual activity or masturbation can help prevent penis cuts by reducing friction between the skin and any objects or surfaces that come into contact with the penis. Water-based or silicone-based lubricants are recommended, as they are less likely to cause irritation.

2. Be Gentle

Avoid aggressive or rough handling of the penis, as this can cause cuts and tears. Take your time during sexual activity or masturbation, and be aware of any discomfort or pain that may indicate that you are being too rough.

3. Trim Your Pubic Hair

Long pubic hair can cause friction and irritation, which can lead to cuts and tears. Keep your pubic hair trimmed and groomed to reduce the risk of injury.

4. Check for Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, can cause dry, flaky skin that is more prone to cuts and tears. If you have a skin condition, talk to your doctor about ways to manage it and prevent penis cuts.

5. Avoid Tight Clothing

Tight clothing, such as tight underwear or jeans, can cause friction and irritation, leading to cuts and tears. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows your skin to breathe.

6. Use Caution With Sex Toys

If you use sex toys, be sure to use them safely and responsibly. Always clean them before and after use, and use plenty of lubrication to prevent friction and irritation.

By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of developing penis cuts and enjoy a more comfortable and satisfying sexual experience. However, if you develop a penis cut or tear, seek medical attention and avoid sexual activity until it has fully healed.

How to Heal Foreskin Cuts?

Wash the wound with water and dry the area with a clean cloth
Apply ice on the area in case of any swelling. Cover the ice in a cloth and place it over the wound for one to two minutes to reduce swelling.
Dab an antibiotic cream over the cut and cover it with a bandage.

When Should I See a Doctor for Cuts on Penile Skin?

Severe pain that doesn't improve
Gaping cut that might need stitches
Pain in passing urine
Blood in urine

Also read: How to remove hair on the penis?

Summing Up On Wounds And Cuts On The Penis

Treating cuts on the penis is possible. It may cause discomfort and pain, but it will heal with time. Icing the swellings, using antibiotic creams, and washing the area regularly will do the trick.