Cracks on penis tip

[QU210054]

My penis tip is wrinkly and there are cracks on it, the cracks aren't too deep. When I rub the cracks it barely hurts but it is concerning me.

[Heather]

Hey there.

This could be a handful of different things, but since you're not too worried right now, and getting healthcare is extra-tricky at the moment, have you first tried moisturizing in case it's just skin dryness, which it very well could be, especially this time of year? Like, if you use an oil or lotion for a few days (and maybe use a gentler soap to wash with if you were using anything harsh, like a deodorant soap), does it help, get worse, or stay the same?

[QU210054]

Thank you so much! I will try using vaseline religiously for a while and see what happens.

[Heather]

Not Vaseline. Petroleum jelly is actually a bit toxic and won’t add any moisture, either. And in the event this isn’t dryness, but a yeast infection, that could make it way worse.

Instead, you want to try something safe that adds moisture: an unscented lotion would be a much better choice, or a basic body-friendly oil like coconut or olive oil.

[QU210054]

Ok, I will use that instead. I was looking online for what I might be dealing and I found an image that looked pretty similar to what I had, and it was labeled bowenoid papulosis. What I searched was "lines on penis tip" and it was the first image (I'm not sure if its the same first image for every region by the way). Do you think this is what I might have? Thank you.

[Siân]

Hi QU210054,

We can't diagnose you over the internet unfortunately, you'll need to see a qualified healthcare provider if you're worried or it doesn't clear up with moisturising. What I will say is that bowenoid papulosis is more common in people in their 20s and 30s as it is associated with HPV, and the papulosis bit refers to the papules - raised bumps - that usually come with it.

It's worth following Heathers advice above either way, since dry skin clears up fairly quickly and better to eliminate that from the list!