Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans penis that may be accompanied by redness, itching, or burning, and sometimes discharge. Although it is common and generally easy to treat, it requires proper men's skin care and medical evaluation to avoid complications or recurrences.

At Homo Naturals we professionally explain what balanitis is, what it looks like, how it is contracted or transmitted, how long it lasts and how to care for it with a gentle and natural intimate routine.

What is balanitis and what does it look like?

Balanitis is inflammation of the glans penis (and, if it affects the foreskin, it is called balanoposthitis). Visually, it can manifest as redness, swelling, itching, shiny or slightly scaly skin, and even discomfort when urinating. It is more common in uncircumcised men.

Types of balanitis

Candidal balanitis (fungal)

It is one of the most common forms, caused by Candida albicans. It usually presents with itching, redness, and whitish discharge. Factors such as high humidity, lack of ventilation, or the use of harsh soaps can contribute to it.

Care recommendations: gentle daily hygiene, careful drying, and breathable garments.

Fungal infections in the male intimate area: causes and how to treat them.

Irritative balanitis

Caused by irritants (perfumes, detergents, latex condoms), friction, tight clothing, or excessive washing with unsuitable gels. It usually presents with itching, dryness, and small cracks. Prevention involves using a specific intimate gel for men, drying the area thoroughly, and avoiding harsh products.

Why a specific intimate hygiene gel for men?

Other options to consider

• Bacterial (overgrowth of skin bacteria).
• Allergic or contact (reaction to chemicals or materials).
• Zoon's balanitis (benign chronic inflammation).
• Associated with dermatoses such as psoriasis or lichen planus.

Balanitis vs. Herpes Difference: Herpes usually produces painful blisters and ulcers ; balanitis generally presents with inflammation, redness, and itching without blister lesions.

Intimate infections in men. How a specific intimate wash helps.

Characteristic symptoms

• Itching or burning sensation on the glans.
• Redness or swelling.
• Pain when rubbing or urinating.
• Whitish discharge or bad odor.
• Shiny, dry, or cracked skin.

Avoid self-medication: different causes require different treatments.

Causes and risk factors

Infectious (fungi, bacteria, viruses)

Candidal balanitis is common; bacterial and, less frequently, viral forms also exist. In infectious cases, transmission can occur through intimate contact.

Irritants

Perfumed soaps, friction, and prolonged moisture disrupt the skin barrier of the glans.

Predisposing factors

• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Immunosuppression.
• Lack of circumcision and poor or aggressive hygiene.
• Contact allergies and antibiotic use.

Discover our product guide: Men's intimate hygiene products.

How long does balanitis last?

It depends on the cause and the approach. With appropriate treatment and a gentle hygiene routine , many cases improve within 3–7 days . If there is no improvement within a week, if it recurs, or if complications arise, a medical evaluation is essential.

Treatment

Treatment should be individualized by a healthcare professional. In general:

• Topical antifungals in candidal balanitis.
• Antibiotics if there is a bacterial infection.
• Mild anti-inflammatory ointments for irritative conditions, according to medical criteria.
• In mild cases, an over-the-counter intimate cream with moisturizing and soothing properties may be considered as support (always after consulting a healthcare professional).

Prevention: how to avoid recurrences

• Daily hygiene with intimate wash specifically for men.
• Dry the glans and under the foreskin carefully.
• Breathable underwear; change daily.
• Use lubricant to reduce friction.
• Control risk factors (e.g., diabetes).
• Avoid harsh soaps and perfumes in the intimate area.

When should I see a doctor?

• Intense pain, fever, persistent discharge, or foul odor.
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin.
• Vesicle-like lesions or ulcers (suspected herpes or other STD).
• Lack of improvement in 3–7 days or frequent recurrences.

Homo Naturals products are not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult your healthcare professional if you experience any symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does balanitis heal on its own?
Some mild forms may improve with gentle hygiene, but it is advisable to seek medical guidance to treat the cause.

How is balanitis spread?
Infectious forms (fungi or bacteria) can be transmitted through intimate contact if there are active lesions.

How long does balanitis last?
With proper treatment and care, it usually resolves in 3–7 days.

What cream should I use for balanitis?
The one your doctor prescribes, depending on the cause. As a support, a soothing and moisturizing cream can improve skin comfort.

Balanitis vs herpes: how to tell the difference?
Herpes presents with painful blisters and ulcers; balanitis usually presents with inflammation and redness without vesicles.

Conclusion

Balanitis is common and, when properly treated, responds quickly. The key lies in proper hygiene, gentle skincare, and medical evaluation when necessary. Discover our Men's Intimate Hygiene line to complement your routine with high-performance, natural formulas.

Medical references

• NIH/NCBI. Balanitis – Overview. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537143/
• Mayo Clinic. Balanitis – Symptoms and Causes. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/…/syc-20351354
• MedlinePlus (NIH). Inflammation of the glans (Balanitis). Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/000862.htm
• Medscape. Balanitis – Treatment and Management. Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/777026-treatment
• Healthline. Balanitis vs. Herpes – Differences. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/balanitis-vs-herpes