What Causes White Flakes On Penis?

Posted on Mon, 7 Sep 2015

Question: Hi Dr,

I am little concerned with these white flakes that I have on my penis. I am unsure if it is smegma or something else entirely. I will attach some pictures but I just want to know if the conversation is confidential and not posted online because I would like a medical expert to have a look.

Regards, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Maintain good penile hygiene.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX and welcome to HCM.
As an Urologist, i would be greatly assisted by the photographs, you're planning to post, so that, i can give you an expert advice.
Maintain good penile hygiene, and wash out the flakes completely, while bathing.
Also, avoid moisture over the penis head and foreskin.
Regarding confidentiality, kindly check with the customer care dept.
Have a speedy recovery.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (4 hours later)

Thanks for that I have attached two photographs. A couple of things I am 18 for starters, uncircumcised and I never had sexual intercourse so stds are ruled out. I have circled what I is concerning me and I had just come off using antibiotics 'Augmentin Duo Forte' let me know whay you think. Also what are the best and most efficient ways to wash the penis should I use soap and what can I do for the sensitivity?

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Penile hygiene is important.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again.
Good to see the photographs.
Augmentin is fine. Most important is penile hygiene.
While bathing, wash and soap the area as over rest of the body, then wipe dry.
Avoid moisture remaining there.
After masturbation also, you must wash and keep it free of moisture.
If it doesn't clear completely over two weeks, get in touch again, with a photograph.
Wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (10 minutes later)

Thanks for getting back to me, what exactly do you think the white build is would it be though is it smegma? Because I dont have any pains urinating but it sometimes can be itchy but not frequently and the white flakes stick to the foreskin which makes it a little hard to retract after keeping the foreskin up all day also what type of soap is ok to use?

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Don't worry.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again.
It's good you're trying to know what your problem is. Many don't bother.
It's mainly due to lack of hygiene, which may progress to Balanitis.
It's not related to the urinary tube, hence no pain urinating.
The skin over the head of penis is very sensitive, hence can cause itching.
Avoid lime based soaps.
Wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (6 hours later)

Cools one last question would either of these be ok to wash with ij the attached photos?

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Palmolive is o.k.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again.
Palmolive should be fine.
I personally have no experience with Herbal soaps.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar