What You Need to Know/Do If You Have Whiteheads on Your Penis

 Much like the skin on other parts of your body, the skin on your penis is prone to rashes, acne, infections, and

other conditions.

Lumps and bumps on your penis — while potentially alarming — are common and usually noncancerous. In fact, the American Cancer SocietyTrusted Source reports that penile cancer is quite rare, affecting less than 1 in 100,000 in the United States each year.

In men who aren’t sexually active or who always wear a condom during sex, whiteheads on the penis are often harmless pimples or other common skin disorders.

In sexually active men — especially those who don’t wear condoms or who have multiple sex partners — they may be indicative of a sexually transmitted disease.

Whenever you notice changes in the skin surrounding your genitalia, see your healthcare provider. They can do the proper tests and prescribe effective treatment.

Causes of whiteheads on the penis and treatments

Bumps and pimples on the penis are pretty common, and there are many possible causes:

Acne

Acne occurs when penile pores clog with oil, sweat, and debris — just like acne on other parts of your body, such as your face. The end result is whiteheads, or pimples that take on a whitish appearance due to trapped oil.

Medical treatment: Generally, you don’t need medical treatment for this, as pimples will subside on their own.

Home remedies: To help the healing process at home, you can use a warm compress to dilate the pores. Be sure to keep the area clean and dry. Don’t try to pop the pimples — this can lead to infection and scarring. Learn more about treating whiteheads at home.

Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules appear as whitish or yellowish domes in rows around the glans (or head) of the penis. They resemble skin tags.

The cause of pearly penile papules is unknown, but they are common. According to data published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, they can appear on up to 48 percent of men, usually after puberty. They’re most common in African-American and uncircumcised men.

Medical treatment: This condition doesn’t require medical treatment, though once the papules appear they tend to remain.

Home remedies: There are no known home remedies for penile papules, but they aren’t cause for concern.

Pearly penile papules aren’t contagious or sexually transmitted.

Lichen planus

This skin disorder can appear anywhere on your body. When it occurs on the penis, it looks like reddish or purplish flat-topped bumps that can have fine white streaks running through them. The bumps can be painless or itchy and sore.

Although the exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, experts suspect a variety of reasons why it develops, including:

• an immune disorder
• infection with the hepatitis C virus
• an allergic reaction to certain compounds and medications

Medical treatment: This condition can go away without treatment, but according to research published in the journal BJU InternationalTrusted Source, it can be successfully treated with short-term use of steroid creams applied to the skin.

Home remedies: At home, cool compresses, colloidal oatmeal baths (a bath product made with finely ground oatmeal), and hydrocortisone creams can reduce inflammation and discomfort. Here’s how to make and use a cool compress.

This condition isn’t contagious or sexually transmitted.

Genital warts

Genital warts are small flesh- or white-colored bumps that can resemble tiny heads of cauliflower. They can appear on the penis and surrounding genitalia — wherever skin has come into contact with the infection. Some people, however, will become infected and never know it.

The infection results from skin-to-skin contact with the human papilloma virus (HPV) during sexual intercourse or sexual play. Planned Parenthood notes that genital warts are the most common sexually transmitted disease, affecting about 360,000 people annually.

Medical treatment: Genital warts may go away on their own, but sometimes they can grow and spread. A doctor can freeze or burn off the warts or prescribe topical creams that kill the genital wart tissue. There is no cure, but there is a vaccine currently available to protect against genital warts. It’s generally recommended for adolescents. Read about the pros and cons of this vaccine.

Home remedies: Although there isn’t enough conclusive evidence to say with certainty, tea tree oil may be helpful in treating genital warts. Experts warn against using any over-the-counter wart removal products on genital warts, as they aren’t made for this area of the body. Learn more about home remedies for genital warts.

If you have an active infection, refrain from sex (including oral and anal sex) and wash your hands after touching your genitals. While condoms can protect against genital warts, they only protect the skin they cover.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can initially appear as one or several whitish ulcers on the penis and genitalia.

This condition is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. It’s most often transmitted via sexual intercourse.

Medical treatment: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, the skin ulcers will heal even if you receive no treatment. However, without treatment (which usually consists of the drug penicillin), the disease itself will progress and can even lead to death.

Home remedies: According to the CDC, there are no home curesTrusted Source for syphilis. However, it can be cured in its early stages with appropriate penicillin treatment.

It’s important to refrain from sex until you test negative for syphilis and to wear a condom to reduce your odds of acquiring the disease.

Genital herpes

Some people who develop genital herpes never develop symptoms. When symptoms do erupt, genital herpes generally takes the form of blister-like sores that can have a gray or whitish covering. The sores can be itchy and burning.

This condition is caused by skin-to-skin contact with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), often through sexual activity.

Medical treatment: Your doctor can prescribe antiviral medications that lessen the duration and severity of the outbreak.

Home remedies: Cool compresses, soothing baths with colloidal (finely ground) oatmeal, and pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help relieve discomfort.

Refrain from sex during an active infection, always use a condom, and limit sexual partners.

Diagnosing the condition

Your doctor will do a physical exam, inspect your genitalia, and ask you about your sexual habits. Depending on the findings, your doctor may take a tissue sample of the bump or give you a blood test to screen for something like syphilis.

The takeaway

Having whiteheads on your penis may concern you, but it isn’t typically dangerous. Many causes aren’t contagious or sexually transmitted. However, some can be passed to a sexual partner, so you should see a doctor about any changes you notice in the appearance of your genitalia. Practicing safe sex can help prevent the spread of many diseases. Check out Healthline’s guide to healthy sex.

What Are Pearly Penile Papules?

Pearly penile papules, also known as hirsutoid papillomas, are small, skin-colored bumps that form around the head of the penis. While they may seem alarming, they are harmless and tend to fade in appearance as you age.

A papule is a raised, pimple-like growth on the skin that does not produce pus. This condition is seen in 8 to 43 percent of men. The papules usually appear after puberty, and are more common in men who have not been circumcised. However, they can appear on any male.

Symptoms

Pearly penile papules do not cause any symptoms, and once they develop, they don’t spread or change much in size or shape. They are neither contagious nor painful. Hirsutoid papillomas can be identified by several characteristics:

• They are smooth.
• They look like tiny bumps or threads.
• They measure 1 to 4 millimeters in diameter.
• They form one or two rows around the base of the glans penis (the rounded head of the penis).

There are other similar conditions, such as Fordyce spots. These are also harmless papules. But rather than appear in one or two rows around the base of the glans penis, Fordyce spots may appear more scattered and could present as one or 100 bumps.

If you ever notice any bumps, discoloration, or other unusual feature develop on or around your genitals, see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Some changes, such as pearly penile papules, are completely benign. But any change can cause some anxiety, so don’t hesitate to get checked out. A urologist is a doctor who specializes in the health of the male reproductive organs and in conditions affecting the male or female urinary system. However, going to your primary care doctor is often a good first step.

Causes

Pearly penile papules are sometimes mistakenly thought to be signs of a sexually transmitted disease or of poor hygiene. The condition does not appear to have any outside source. It is not the result of an infection or other underlying cause. The bumps are not malignant or premalignant.

The American Urological Association suggests that the papules may be left over from a man’s embryonic development in the womb. While the exact cause isn’t known, health experts agree that pearly penile papules are a normal anatomic condition.

Treatment

Once pearly penile papules are properly diagnosed, no treatment is necessary. The diagnosis can usually be made simply by examining their appearance. It shouldn’t be difficult to distinguish pearly penile papules from other skin conditions, such as viral warts. If there is any concern that the bumps may be a threat, some tissue can be biopsied to confirm a diagnosis.

Though no intervention is medically necessary, there are treatments available for hirsutoid papillomas. If the condition triggers considerable psychological distress, you have options.

• Carbon dioxide laser surgery: Precise carbon dioxide lasers produce infrared energy that can dissolve the papules. This procedure is generally safe and effective.
• Radiosurgery: Targeted radiation creates free radicals, which are molecules that can damage healthy cells. The free radicals attack the cells of the papules, causing them to fade away. While accurate, radiosurgery isn’t any more accurate or effective than carbon dioxide laser surgery.
• Cryosurgery: This procedure uses extreme cold to freeze the papules so they will disappear.
• Excisional surgery: A surgeon uses traditional tools, such as a scalpel, to remove each papule individually. This approach is more likely than the others to cause scarring.

All surgical procedures come with risks and benefits. Before undergoing any operation, be sure you have a full understanding of what’s involved and what your recovery will be like.

You may be tempted to try over-the-counter topical ointments or home remedies, such as scrubbing the papules with toothpaste or lemon juice. Before attempting any of these treatments, talk with your doctor.

Prevention

There is no way to prevent pearly penile papules. They are not brought on by any lifestyle choices you make. Though they are more common among men who aren’t circumcised, there is no guarantee that circumcision will prevent the bumps from appearing one day.

Outlook

Pearly penile papules shouldn’t interfere with your health or affect activities such as intercourse. As you get older, the papules will probably fade.

If you feel the need to at least explore treatments to remove them, talk with a urologist. Likewise, if you notice any other changes to your penis or symptoms such as painful urination or erectile dysfunction, see a urologist. These developments aren’t likely to be related to pearly penile papules, but it’s important to be proactive when it comes to any health issue, even one that may be awkward to discuss at first.

What Causes White Spots to Form on Your Foreskin?

Is this cause for concern?

Many things can cause white spots to form on your foreskin. For example, some men are born with conditions that cause them, or they may develop spots if they don’t bathe regularly. They’re also a common symptom of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Keep reading to learn more about what may be causing your symptoms and how to treat it.

1. Penile papules

Penile papules are rows of tiny white growths around the head, or glans, of your penis. Penile papules are harmless. It’s not clear what causes them, but they’re not associated with any condition or STI.

What treatment options are available?

Your doctor usually won’t recommend removal unless the papules cause you anxiety or stress.

Possible options for removal include:

• Excisional surgery. Your doctor will use a scalpel to cut each papule off.
• Laser surgery. Your doctor will use laser surgical techniques to break apart and remove the papules.
• Cryosurgery. Your doctor will use liquid nitrogen to freeze the papules, causing them to break off your penis.

2. Fordyce spots

Fordyce spots are enlarged sebaceous glands that are visible on the surface of your skin. Sebaceous glands help keep your skin moisturized. They’re normally covered by skin, but they can appear on your skin in clusters of white spots.

Fordyce spots are harmless. They can appear almost anywhere on your body, including the foreskin of your penis. You’re usually born with them, though they may not appear until you go through puberty.

What treatment options are available?

Your doctor usually won’t recommend treatment unless you want them removed.

Possible options for removal include:

• Laser treatment. Your doctor will use laser surgical techniques to remove tissue and minimize the appearance of Fordyce spots.
• Micro-punch surgery. Your doctor will use a device to poke through your skin and remove tissue that’s causing the Fordyce spots.

3. Pimple

Pimples can develop when body oils or dead tissues get stuck in your pores and cause blockage. When your pores are blocked, bacteria can grow and fill the pore with infected pus. This causes a pimple to turn white.

Pimples are usually harmless and will fade in time. Don’t pop a pimple. This can make the inflammation worse or cause permanent scars. Let them disappear on their own.

What treatment options are available?

You can help treat pimples by applying benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to remove bacteria and excess skin and oils. But don’t use acne medication intended for your face or other parts of your body on your penis.

4. Balanitis

Balanitis occurs when the skin on the head of your penis is irritated or swollen. White spots around your penis head and foreskin can be a symptom.

Other symptoms include:

• redness
• pain when urinating
• penis soreness or itchiness

If balanitis is due to an infection (fungal or bacterial), you may see a white matter or discharge.

What treatment options are available?

To reduce irritation, apply a corticosteroid cream like betamethasone (Betaloan SUIK) to your foreskin as needed.

If you suspect an infection, see your doctor. They may prescribe a topical antifungal or antibiotics to help clear any infection that may have developed.

You should also see your doctor right away if you notice symptoms after becoming sexually active or having sex with new or multiple partners.

5. Folliculitis

Folliculitis occurs when the follicles that hold individual hairs become swollen. This may result from a bacterial infection, fungal infection, or ingrown hair.

Folliculitis can be itchy and irritating. However, it usually isn’t harmful unless it results from an infection that goes untreated.

See your doctor right away if you notice any of these symptoms:

• burning or itching
• pus or discharge from white bumps or blisters
• pain or tenderness around bumps

What treatment options are available?

Depending on the cause, folliculitis can be treated with antibiotics or creams for fungal or bacterial infections.

If you frequently get folliculitis, your doctor may recommend laser surgery to remove hair follicles or procedures to drain and clean larger infections.

6. Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection. It can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, having sex with a person with the condition, or sharing infected clothing, towels, or other objects.

White spots or bumps are a common symptom of this condition. They may begin as small and white or flesh-colored spots, but can become larger, redder, and more irritated as your body fights the infection.

What treatment options are available?

Oftentimes, these bumps will clear without treatment.

But if your lesions are large or otherwise causing you discomfort, your doctor may recommend:

• Topical acids or blistering solution. Your doctor may apply these on the bumps to get rid of them by destroying the top layer of skin.
• Curettage surgery. Your doctor will use a tool called a curette to scrape the bumps off.
• Laser surgery. Your doctor will use laser surgical techniques to break apart and remove the bumps.
• Cryosurgery. Your doctor will use liquid nitrogen to freeze the bumps, causing them to break off your penis.

7. Penile yeast infection

A penile yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by the Candida albicans fungus. It can be spread by having sex with someone who has a yeast infection or by not practicing good genital hygiene.

If you have a yeast infection, symptoms will usually appear around the head of your penis or under your foreskin.

Other symptoms include:

• white or red bumps
• redness
• irritation
• discharge that resembles cottage cheese
• tightness of the foreskin

What treatment options are available?

Topical antifungal ointments and creams are usually enough to clear up an infection.

Common options include:

• miconazole (Desenex)
• clotrimazole (Canesten and Lotrimin AF)

8. Genital warts as a result of HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an STI that’s easily spread by unprotected sex. Genital warts are a common symptom of HPV. They look like white or red bumps, and may appear around your penis, foreskin, or genital area.

HPV that causes genital warts is temporary. It doesn’t cause any long-term complications. Genital warts may remain longer if your immune system is weak or if you have multiple sexual partners.

What treatment options are available?

If you suspect that you have genital warts or HPV, see your doctor for diagnosis.

They may recommend:

• Topical medication. Your doctor will apply a solution that can help your immune system clear the wart or break down or burn off warts.
• Laser surgery. Your doctor will use laser surgical techniques to break apart and remove the warts.
• Cryosurgery. Your doctor will use liquid nitrogen to freeze the warts, causing them to break off your genital area.

9. Genital warts as a result of herpes

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Genital warts are a common symptom. They look like white or red bumps.

Other symptoms that affect your foreskin or penis may include:

• redness
• irritation
• itching
• blisters that burst and release pus

What treatment options are available?

If you suspect that you have genital warts or herpes simplex virus, see your doctor for diagnosis.

Your doctor will likely prescribe antiviral medication to help your body fight the infection. Although these drugs can’t prevent future outbreaks, they can help speed up the healing time of your sores and reduce pain.

Common options include:

• imiquimod (Aldara)
• podophyllin and podofilox (Condylox)
• trichloroacetic acid (TCA)

These medications may be taken at the first sign of an outbreak to help reduce your symptoms.

When to see your doctor

White spots that appear on your foreskin aren’t always a cause for concern. Oftentimes, they disappear within a few days or weeks. If your symptoms last longer than a week or two, see your doctor for diagnosis.

See your doctor if you begin experiencing:

• pain
• swelling
• soreness
• redness or irritation
• dry, cracked skin
• rash
• clear discharge
• clusters of 20 or more red or white bumps
• cauliflower-shaped areas of bumps

Sometimes, white spots on your foreskin are a sign of an STI or other infection. These can lead to long-term complications if left untreated.

Pimple on Penis: What Causes It and How Is It Treated?

Pimples can form on your penis when your pores get blocked up with oil and bacteria. It should heal on its own, but if it doesn’t, it’s important to see a doctor. Other conditions can cause similar lumps and bumps.

Is this possible?

Pimples can develop anywhere you have pores. This means they can form anywhere on your body, including the penis.

Given the area’s sensitive nature, there are a few specific symptoms you should check for before attempting a self-diagnosis. Other bumps and lumps that occur around the penis could be something else entirely, and may require medical attention.

Read on to learn more about these types of pimples and whether the bumps could actually be a sign of something more serious.

What causes a pimple to form here and what will it look like?

A pimple occurs when a pore gets clogged. The end result depends on the materials that plug up the pore.

For example, oil and dead skin cells lead to blackheads and whiteheads. A mix of bacteria, oil, and cells can cause a pimple with or without a head.

Pimples may also:

• contain pus
• feel tender to the touch
• feel like a hardened bump

You may be at a higher risk for pimples in this area if you:

• skip showers
• live in a humid climate
• have oily skin
• shave your pubic hair
• wear tight-fitting bottoms, which can cause friction

Penile pimples can occur regardless of whether you’re sexually active. However, if you are sexually active, you’re at risk for signs of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that can look like pimples.

STDs can cause additional complications if left untreated, so if you’re unsure of your bumps, see your doctor for diagnosis.

What treatment options are available?

The best way to treat pimples on your penis is to leave them alone. A hands-off approach will usually keep genital acne from worsening. The pimple is also likely to resolve on its own if the area is kept clean and dry.

As tempting as it may be, you should never pop penile pimples. This could make them worse and cause an infection. Popping can also make bacteria spread, possibly leading to even more pimples. If the bump persists, talk to your dermatologist about your options for drainage or removal. You can book an appointment with a dermatologist in your area using our Healthline FindCare tool.

You can’t treat a penile pimple with over-the-counter (OTC) medications like you can with pimples on other parts of your body. This is because your skin in this area is thinner and more sensitive. Common OTC acne products, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, may be too harsh for this area. You could end up with a significant rash and itchiness as a result.

If you have an outbreak of pimples in the genital area, you might consider talking to your doctor about acne medications you can take orally. Antibiotics can help clear excessive bacteria that can contribute to acne breakouts, but these are only taken for a short period of time.

Isotretinoin (Accutane), a strong vitamin A derivative, is another option. This prescription medication is taken for severe acne (usually cystic nodular acne).

Other reasons for pimple-like bumps

If the bump of concern doesn’t seem like an actual pimple, it could very well be linked to another condition. Some skin bumps are harmless and don’t need treatment. Others may be caused by an underlying condition and could warrant a visit to the doctor.

Here are some of the most common causes of pimple-like bumps. This isn’t a conclusive list, so be sure to follow up with your doctor.

Razor burn

Razor burns occur on recently shaved skin, resulting in redness and irritation. Minor cuts are also possible. As the affected skin heals, a combination of ingrown hairs and other pus-filled bumps may form along the rash.

Razor burn bumps tend to heal on their own. To soothe irritated skin, apply an oatmeal-based body lotion to the area. It’s also a good idea to apply this lotion every time you shave to prevent future irritation.

Shop for oatmeal-based lotion.

Fordyce spot

A Fordyce spot is a visible sebaceous gland. Sebaceous glands are usually located underneath hair follicles, but they’re visible on areas that don’t have hair — like the penis. The resulting spots are small and may be white or yellow.

You may be able to tell if you have Fordyce spots on your penis if you also have them inside your mouth. These spots most often form in clusters of between 50 and 100 at a time.

While harmless, sometimes Fordyce spots can cause aesthetic concerns. Certain dermatologic procedures can help, such as laser therapy. Isotretinoin is another option.

Tyson glands

Tyson glands are visible sebaceous glands. These bumps form around the frenulum, or the small tissue folds underneath the penis.

The resulting spots are small and may be white or yellow. They’re considered harmless and don’t require treatment.

Folliculitis

Hair follicle inflammation can lead to bumps near the base of pubic hair growth. The resulting red, pimple-like bumps are related to a condition known as folliculitis. These bumps may also be painful and itchy.

Folliculitis may resolve on its own without treatment. However, stubborn or recurring cases may require topical antimicrobials. This helps clear the existing bumps while preventing future inflammation.

What Causes Raised Bumps on the Head of the Penis and How are They Treated?

Bumps on the penis might be the appearance of Tyson glands, Fordyce spots, penile papules, or psoriasis. Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) like human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and herpes may also cause bumps on the penis.

Overview

Finding bumps on the head of your penis can be alarming, but most of the time bumps in this area are not serious. They don’t always mean you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other serious health issue.

Bumps on the head of the penis are fairly common and often part of your penis’ normal anatomy.

Let’s take a look at what can cause bumps in this area, other symptoms to be aware of, and what can be done about them.

Causes of raised bumps on the head of the penis

Tyson glands

Tyson glands are tiny sebaceous glands that form on either side of the frenulum, which is the fold of connective tissue under the penis. They appear as small yellow or white bumps under the penis head.

They are considered normal structures and are harmless. No treatment is required.

Fordyce spots

Fordyce spots are small yellowish or white bumps on the penis head, shaft, or foreskin. They are enlarged sebaceous glands and considered harmless.

Fordyce spots don’t require treatment, but options are available if the appearance of the spots is causing you distress. These include laser therapy and some topical and oral treatments. A dermatologist can help determine the best option for you.

Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules (PPPs) are benign flesh-colored, pinkish, or white bumps under the penis head. They are very common and not of medical concern. They typically form around the head of the penis or just under it, and range in size.

PPPs don’t need to be treated (they often regress over time), but some people have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Doctors don’t generally recommend removal unless you’re experiencing severe concern or embarrassment over the appearance of the papules. Treatment options include cryosurgery or laser therapy.

Psoriasis

One-third to two-thirds of people with psoriasis experience genital psoriasis at some point. Inverse psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis in the genital area, followed by plaque psoriasis.

Inverse psoriasis can cause your skin to look red and tight, along with pain and itching. Plaque psoriasis can cause raised patches of skin with silvery or white areas and may appear as patches or small red bumps on head of the penis or the shaft.

Home remedies

You can use mild, fragrance-free OTC moisturizers to treat psoriasis at home and help relieve itching. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to prevent friction.

Medical treatment

A dermatologist can recommend the best treatment for your genital psoriasis. Topical medications, such as low-dose corticosteroid cream, may be prescribed to relieve inflammation, pain, and itching. Oral and injectable psoriasis treatments are also available.

Lichen sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition that causes patches of thin, shiny white skin, usually in the genital or anal regions. The patches can be flat or slightly raised and may also be itchy or painful, especially during intercourse. Being uncircumcised may increase your risk.

People with lichen sclerosus have a slightly higher risk for developing skin cancer in the affected area.

Home remedies

Keep the area clean and dry by carefully washing the skin using mild soaps that don’t contain harsh chemicals. Monitor the area for signs of skin cancer.

Medical treatment

A doctor may prescribe a topical steroid or immune-modulating medication. Foreskin removal is recommended for people with severe cases who are uncircumcised.

Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the most common STITrusted Source. Genital warts are flesh-colored or grayish raised bumps that can form on and around the penis, including the groin, thighs, and anus.

Several warts close together can create a cauliflower-like appearance. Itching and bleeding are also possible.

Home remedies

Home treatments for genital warts are available, but there is little evidence to support their effectiveness. OTC wart treatments can cause severe irritation and should not be used in the genital area.

Medical treatment

Genital warts often go away on their own, but HPV can linger in your cells and cause future outbreaks. Treatment can help relieve your symptoms and may include prescription topical wart treatments.

Warts that don’t go away can be removed with minor surgery, such cryosurgery, electrocauterization, or excision.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a common STI caused by the herpes simplex virus typically spread through sexual contact. Genital herpes cause small red bumps or white blisters on the penis. Ulcers can also form when blisters rupture, followed by scabbing.

You may also experience pain or itching in the area before blisters form. Flu-like symptoms and swollen lymph nodes in your groin are also possible during an initial outbreak.

Home remedies

Keep the infected area clean and dry. Use mild cleansers with warm water when showering or bathing. Wear loose cotton fabrics to keep the area comfortable.

Medical treatment

There’s no cure for genital herpes, but treatment with antiviral medications can help sores heal faster, lessen the severity and duration of symptoms, and reduce the frequency of recurrence. Medications include Acyclovir (Zovirax) and Valacyclovir (Valtrex).

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin condition that causes firm, round painless bumps on the skin. They can range in size from a pin dot to a pea and form in clusters. The condition is most common in children.

In a healthy adult, molluscum contagiosum involving the genitals is considered an STI. You may notice lumps on your abdomen, groin, and thighs, as well as the penis. The condition is highly contagious as long as you have lumps.

Home remedies

Don’t touch the bumps or shave the area, to avoid spreading the virus to other areas. Avoid sexual contact as long as you have bumps.

Medical treatment

The virus usually goes away without treatment within 6 to 12 months. Treatment to remove the lumps is often recommended because they are so contagious. Options include scraping, cryosurgery, and topical treatments.

Syphilis

Syphilis is an STI caused by bacteria. The first sign of the infection is a small sore called a chancre that develops around three weeks after exposure. It usually develops where the bacteria entered your body.

Many people develop only one chancre, but some develop several. Syphilis happens in stages and left untreated, can cause serious complications that affect your heart and brain.

Medical treatment

Penicillin, an antibiotic, is the preferred treatment for all stages. One single injection can stop the disease from progressing if given less than a year after infection. Otherwise, additional doses may be needed.

Penile cancer

Penile cancer is very rare. Symptoms caused by penile cancer can also be caused by other conditions. The first sign of penile cancer is usually a change in the skin of the penis, usually on the tip or the foreskin. Symptoms include:

• small crusty bumps on the head of the penis or foreskin
• changes in skin color or thickness
• flat bluish-brown growths
• a lump or sore
• red velvety rash under the foreskin
• smelly discharge or bleeding

Medical treatment

Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer. Surgery is the main treatment used, but radiation therapy may also be used instead or in addition to surgery. Other treatments include local treatments and chemotherapy.

Diagnosing the cause of penis bumps

A doctor will physically examine your genitalia, and ask about your sexual history. Some bumps on the head of the penis can be diagnosed just based on their appearance. Depending on the findings, a doctor may take a tissue sample or a blood test to check for an STI or other condition.

When to see a doctor

Even though bumps on the head of your penis are often caused by harmless conditions, they should still be evaluated by a doctor to rule out an underlying condition that needs treatment.

See a doctor right away if you think you’ve been exposed to or have symptoms of an STI, or if you are experiencing pain or bleeding. If you don’t already have a provider, our Healthline FindCare tool can help you connect to physicians in your area.

Takeaway

Bumps on the head of your penis can be caused by a number of things, some more serious than others. See a doctor about any changes that concern you.