Sudden dark spots on your penis freaking you out? They’re no cause for worry. Like any other part of your body, your genitals are also prone to skin changes and dark spots are part of them. Most dark spots – which appear in different sizes, shapes, and shades – are usually harmless unless they change in the way they look over time. Let’s look at the various reasons black spots may appear on your penis and how you can treat them at home.
Causes Of Dark Spots On The Penis
1. Penile Melanosis
The most common cause of dark spots on the penis is penile melanosis. This condition is characterized by a brown to black colored flat patch usually seen on the shaft of the penis. Such a patch is usually harmless and does not require treatment.1 The pigmented area may look irregular and can be confused with a penile tumor. However, a penile tumor is not as common as you think and is said to represent only one percent of the total occurrences of this condition. Your doctor may suggest a biopsy to rule out a tumor if there is any severe abnormality in the discolored region.
2. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
You can contract allergic dermatitis (a contact allergy due to an irritant) on the skin of your
penis if you are allergic to something you use around your penis like soap or shampoo. This condition inflames the skin in the affected area and causes hyperpigmentation – harmless skin darkening caused by excess production of the pigment melanin – which usually does not require treatment and fades with time. Hyperpigmentation can also be an inherited genetic condition or can occur due to metabolic disorders or even certain medications.2
3. Pigmented Warts
Sexual contact with an infected partner can lead to pigmented warts on the penis. These warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), are transmitted through sexual intercourse.3 They are often painless and start out as small pink or red protrusions and then spread rapidly to form clustered protrusions on the skin of the penis. While they may disappear if left untreated, warts are usually contagious so it’s best to get them treated. However, they can recur after treatment. So, always get yourself checked if you notice rapid growth of warts on your penis to rule out any malignancy. Remember to keep your sexual partner informed of your condition.
4. Pigmented Nevus (Moles) Of The Penis
Moles can appear on the penis quite frequently. They form on penile skin folds and are pale brown or black. They are usually harmless and do not require any treatment. However, any genital mole that enlarges or changes in color over time could be a cause for concern.
Home Remedies For Penile Dark Spots
If you’ve identified with any of these issues and want to do something about it, here are a few simple and effective home remedies you can try. Remember to do a patch test before applying any of these to the affected area to avoid allergic reactions.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
For the longest time, apple cider vinegar has been used for skin abnormalities and been found to be quite effective in treating them. It is also believed to have antimicrobial properties, which make it effective against infections. This makes it a worthy choice for treating dark spots on the penis.
How To Use
- Dilute half a cup of apple cider vinegar with a cup of warm water.
- Rinse the affected area thoroughly with this solution.
- Repeat a few times a day for 2–3 days.
You may experience slight stinging on applying ACV. The stinging feeling should go away in a few minutes. If it doesn’t, dilute the solution further and then use.
2. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is another age-old remedy used extensively for skin conditions. It has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that could help with dark spots on the penis and soothe skin. Pure witch hazel is said to be more effective than the store-bought variant.4
How To Use
- Add pure witch hazel to your bath water and rinse your penis thoroughly with the solution.
- Repeat every day till the dark spots fade.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a plant of great medicinal value. It is a powerful natural antiseptic that keeps skin free from pathogens.5 Besides treating skin infections, it may also work well in treating dark spots on the penis.
How To Use
- Mix a few drops of tea tree essential oil with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.
- Massage the penis with this oil mixture generously.
- Repeat once a week.
Alternative Method
- Add a few drops each of tea tree oil and patchouli oil to a bowl of warm water.
- Wash your penis twice a day with this solution.
4. Onion Juice
Although this may seem absurd, onion juice has been found to help with skin infections thanks to its antimicrobial properties.6 It may also reduce dark spots alongside other issues. So, try it on your penis and reap the benefits.
How To Use
- Cut a fresh onion into a few pieces.
- Mash the pieces gently to make a paste.
- Press the paste through a sieve to extract fresh onion juice.
- Apply this juice on the affected areas.
- Repeat till dark spots become light.
Try these simple remedies and treat the dark spots on your penis effectively at home. Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions or worsened symptoms, and see your doctor immediately in such situations.
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