Red irritation from Neosporin on Penis Shaft

[reesper]

About six months I used neosporin on the shaft of my penis. The next day the area that I spread the neosporin on became red. The redness is not sore and does not hurt. This red area has remained for nearly six months now with absolutely no improvements. I have been to a dermatologist who prescribed a moderate steroid ointment (desonaid (sp?)) and after a week of use the are actually became worse! I have also used a variety of lotions, petroleum jelly, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar and these have either aggravated the redness or have done nothing. What can I do to get rid of the redness???

[reesper]

The dermatologist tested my skin for any indication of a fungal infection and none was to be found. I also have no other indications of a bacterial or fungal infection. I am absolutely sure that it is from irritation from the neosporin. I have tried steroids before (both OTC corticosteroid and desonaid) and both made the rash much WORSE so I am reluctant to try another steroid. I have found the best results when I apply a light powdering of baby power and wrap my penis up with a soft bandage. I stopped continuing this though because it constricts my urethra and can sometimes make urinating painful. Aloe vera creams and lotions make the irritation worse, which I assume comes from the actual act of rubbing the cream in. For the past few months I have just left the area alone (no creams, no bandages) and it appears to be healing very very slowing. I would like to find a way to quicken the healing process however.

From my experiences overall doctors have been everything but helpful. I am reluctant to see a doctor and spend $30 copay so that I can be applied a worthless product. I have lost every inch of respect for the medical profession.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it sounds like irritant contact dermatitis. Irritant dermatitis, the most common type of contact dermatitis, involves inflammation resulting from contact with acids, alkaline materials such as soaps and detergents, cosmetics, or other chemicals.

Avoid using any lotions and creams over the skin for the meantime. Wash it with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Pat it dry. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves.If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort.

If the irritation persists then pls get it evaluated from a dermatologist.Hives and fungal infections have to be ruled out.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.