Redness around pubic region

[SAR1985]

Hi there, I'm not sure if this is the right place for this, but here goes.

Lately, and by lately I mean for the last two months, I've noticed a redness in the skin around my pubic region underneath my pubic hair. I don't shave down there or anything, I just trim sometimes. I just brushed i off as it being a sweaty area, but lately I've noticed the same redness on the back of my penis. It's consistent with the wrinkles in the skin I have when I'm not erect, but if my penis expands I can kinda see where the wrinkles are. Needless to say, I'm slightly alarmed.

Mind you that this isn't painful, itchy, or flaking/peeling. The skin feels no different than it does anywhere else on my body. I have recently been tested for STDs, including herpes - all negative, so that's out. I don't know if this is only a cosmetic problem or a sign of some sort of fungal infection? Any advice or opinions would be appreciated. I've been to see my doctor a lot lately and can't afford to go see him again if I'm just jumping at shadows.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
For folliculitis, Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment and oral antihistaminics like Benadryl or Zyrtec are also useful if there is any itching. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[SAR1985]

Thank you, this is all very helpful.

The chaffing must be worse than usual, but I have taken to wearing a particular kind of undergarment lately so I wonder if that's the problem. In addition to this problem, I have also been dealing with folliculitis for a while now (same region) and the problem is embarrassing. I am slightly overweight, so I wonder if I should wear looser clothing. I shower every day and meticulously clean.

I will try the suggestions you have both given me. Thank you very much for your input.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like chafing or friction rub. Chafing occurs when the skin becomes irritated by the friction caused by rubbing – either against other skin or against a foreign material. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. Also wear cotton undergarments. Application of mild corticosteroid cream and oral antiinflammatories like ibuprofen/acetaminophen are also helpful. If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Tulasi P, MBBS]

HI,
It might be some local irritation causing redness. Use calamine lotion and loose underwear. Its unlikely to be a fungal infection. However if it starts paining, itching, consult a dermat immediately.
Have a nice day