Peroxide Use

About two years ago there was some moderate irritation on side of my penis.  After rubbing the area I caused it to bleed a bit.  My doctor prescribed an antibiotic incase of infection and also advised me to put some peroxide on the area.  I remember shortly after putting peroxide on the area, the area  "blew Up" like a white bubble.  In a short amount of time it retreated.  

Occasionally I get some itching in that area and the skin looks a bit red at times and the skin looks cracked.

Could the use of peroxide caused permanent damage to my skin?  I understand that peroxide can sometimes change the cell make up of the area it is applied to.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Peroxide doesn't sound like what you need, but it certainly can't cause permanent damage.  It sounds to me as though you have irritation rather than infection.  I advise you to try 1% hydrocortisone twice a day for a few days and stay away from peroxide there.  You should also consult a dermatologist about dealing with cracked skin in that area.  But you don't need to worry that you damaged yourself.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff