What causes pimples on the foreskin?
Acne, also known as pimples, generally may appear on the penile skin due to mosquito bites, sebaceous cysts, folliculitis, lipomas, or contagious molluscum infections. After identifying the specific cause, general treatments and medication therapy can be adopted under the guidance of a professional physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Mosquito Bites
When the penile skin is bitten by insects, inflammation may occur and lead to acne-like symptoms. This is a normal phenomenon. Scratching should be avoided, and adequate sleep and rest should be maintained to prevent excessive fatigue.
2. Sebaceous Cyst
Poor personal hygiene may lead to microbial infection of the penile skin, resulting in a sebaceous cyst. Under the stimulation of inflammation, the keratin layer at the hair follicle openings on the penile skin might thicken, causing acne-like symptoms, often accompanied by redness, swelling, abscess formation, and skin ulcers. Prompt medical attention is recommended, and antibiotic medications such as amoxicillin, cefradine, and piperacillin sodium may be used as directed by a physician.
3. Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting hair follicles. Usually, folliculitis causes thickening of the keratin layer at the follicular openings on the penile skin, leading to acne-like lesions, often accompanied by redness and pain. If detected, prompt medical consultation is advised, and topical medications such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, and fusidic acid cream should be used according to medical instructions.
4. Lipoma
Lipomas on the penile skin may develop due to genetic factors or unhealthy dietary habits, which cause fat cell proliferation. These lipomas may lead to localized fat cell growth, presenting as acne-like bumps on the penile skin. Applying a warm compress with a hot water bag to the affected area for 15–30 minutes per session is recommended to improve local blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, and reduce the number of acne lesions.
5. Contagious Molluscum
Contagious molluscum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus and is primarily transmitted through direct contact. Infection of the penile skin with contagious molluscum may trigger inflammation, resulting in acne-like symptoms, accompanied by rashes and itching. It is recommended to use medications such as salicylic acid, podophyllotoxin, and retinoic acid under a physician's guidance.
In daily life, maintaining a positive mindset, avoiding emotional agitation, refraining from scratching to prevent infection or worsening, and wearing loose, soft, and breathable clothing to reduce friction are advised.