Skip to:
-
Skin conditions/
Male dermatoses
Select page

Male dermatoses

Find out more about common and rare skin conditions, the causes and symptoms and how we can help you treat these conditions

male dermatoses

Causes & Symptoms

Male dermatoses encompasses a wide range of skin conditions affecting the male genitals with symptoms including itching, pain, redness and thickening of the skin. Common examples include:

  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Lichen planus
  • Lichen sclerosus
  • Irritant dermatitis
  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Scabies

Symptoms may vary from asymptomatic to severe and may include:

  • Redness, scaling or thickening of the skin
  • Itching, soreness or pain
  • Blistering or ulceration
  • Bleeding or colour changes
  • Issues with foreskin such as phimosis (inability to retract) or paraphimosis (foreskin stuck in retracted position)

Diagnosis requires accurate history, a systematic examination of the genital and extragenital skin and investigations to rule out other conditions such as diabetes, sexually transmitted infections and cancer. A skin biopsy may be necessary.

Treatment for male dermatoses

Treatment is specific to the diagnosis and may include:

  • Avoiding irritants like soaps and urine, and using moisturisers
  • Topical or oral medications depending on the condition
  • Allergen avoidance and patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis
  • Surgical intervention in some cases such as circumcision for recurrent problems
DermNet NZ The Australasian College of Dermatologists
Male dermatoses

Find a specialist

We have a number of Dermatologists specialising in male dermatoses.  If you are concerned, book your appointment with The Skin Hospital.

Browse specialist (15)
Book an appointment

We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which The Skin Hospital operates. For thousands of years, these lands have been cared for by Indigenous communities and their ancestors. We recognise and appreciate their ongoing connection to Country, culture, and community. We also pay our respects to the elders, past and present, of these communities, as well as to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have contributed to the cultural heritage of this country.
flags
© The Skin Hospital 2026
Site by Sod
Please note that The Skin Hospital will be closed for the King's Birthday Public Holiday on Monday, 8 June 2026. Our clinics at Darlinghurst and Westmead will reopen and resume normal operating hours on Tuesday, 9 June 2026. If you require urgent medical assistance during this time, please contact 000 or attend your nearest emergency department. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding. The Skin Hospital
June Long Weekend Closure Notice