Red spots on the penis can be caused by a variety of factors, most of which are benign. Common causes include poor hygiene, irritation from clothing, and yeast infections, all of which can be managed with proper care.

However, when multiple new red spots appear suddenly, they may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as balanitis or an STI. In rare cases, red spots could indicate penile cancer, which presents with sores that don’t heal.

If the red spots persist for more than a few days, it's important to seek medical attention. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may involve antifungal creams, antibiotics, or other specific treatments.

Why do I have red spots on my penis?

The most common causes of red spots on the penis are:

1. Poor hygiene

This is most common cause of red spots on the penile gland. Inadequate genital hygiene can lead to rashes, but red spots can also appear in men who exercise or play sports regularly. Increased sweat production can promote bacterial growth, leading to red spots.

How to treat: It is important to cleanse the genitals adequately on a daily basis with mild soap and warm water. You should opt for underwear that is cotton-based to help keep the area ventilated and dry. Men who produce excess sweat may need to shower twice per day.

2. Irritation

The genital region is a very sensitive area of the body that can become easily irritated with chemical-based products, like soaps or creams. When certain products are used, the gland can become swollen, causing general redness and spots of varying sizes.

Many men may also have a sensitivity to certain fabrics, especially synthetic-based fabrics that do not allow air to reach the genitals. Read more about what causes penis irritation and symptoms that it can lead to.

How to treat: Avoid using heavily-scented or chemical products in the genital area, and opt for cotton-based underwear.

3. Yeast infection

In addition to poor hygiene, candidiasis (or a yeast infection) is another common cause of red spots on the penis. A yeast infection is caused by the overgrowth of Candida albicans fungus, which is characterized by red, purple or white spots, as well as swelling and intense itching.

Although yeast infections are more commonly seen in women, they can also occur in men, especially when the immune system is weakened by a cold or the flu.

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How to treat: Yeast infections are often treated with antifungal ointments, like fluconazole or ketoconazole. Adequate hygiene is also imperative. In more serious cases, oral antifungals may be prescribed.

Sexual partners may also need to be treated to avoid re-infection. Read more about yeast infection treatments, including creams and home remedies.

4. Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory use

The use of anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, or antibiotics can cause side effects, including the development of red spots with a gray center in the genital area. You may also notice small blisters or darkened areas.

How to treat: Make sure to let your prescribing provider know if you notice red spots on your penis after starting a new medication. They may consider using an alternative treatment.

5. Balanoposthitis

Balanoposthitis is characterized by the inflammation of the head of the penis (glans) and foreskin. It causes symptoms like swelling in the area, red spots, burning and itching.

What to do: You should consult your primary care provider or a urologist for assessment if you experience symptoms. If confirmed, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroid ointments (like hydrocortisone), antifungals (like ketoconazole, itraconazole, or clotrimazole), or antibiotic ointments (like clindamycin).

6. Pearly papules

Pearly papules are associated with inflammation of the Tyson glands, which are located beneath the head of the penis. They may look like small pimples, although they are sometimes not visible. Some men only notice a slight brightening in color, similar to white spots.

How to treat: Pearly papules are a benign finding that do not require treatment. However, if you wish to treat them for aesthetic reasons, you can discuss treatment options with your doctor. These may include cryotherapy or cauterization.

Read more about how pearly papules are treated.

7. Fordyce granules

Fordyce granules can lead to the appearance of tiny white or yellow spots or blisters that appear on the head or shaft of the penis.

This change is almost always benign and is not life-threatening or serious by any means. It occurs more frequently during adolescence. Learn more about the causes and symptoms of fordyce granules.

What to do: Treatment is not necessary, although a doctor can prescribe tretinoin creams to reduce their appearance.

8. Balanitis

Balanitis is characterized by inflammation of the glans, or head of the penis. This inflammation occurs due to a mild allergic reaction, a yeast infection, or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Common symptoms include redness, pain with palpation or urination, and burning.

How to treat: If you notice red spots on your penis that are accompanied by swelling at the tip of the penis, see your doctor for assessment. Once the underlying cause is identified, treatment can be started. Treatment for balanitis caused by infections may include oral or topical antifungals or antibiotics.

9. Genital psoriasis

Genital psoriasis, or inverse psoriasis, is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin in the genital area, causing smooth, red patches that look dry. It is also associated with itchiness, flaking skin, and overall irritation.

How to treat: This condition is usually treated with a prescription corticosteroid cream that is applied to affected areas of the skin to decrease skin inflammation and relieve discomfort. In more serious cases, a doctor may also prescribe oral medication.

Learn more about the how genital psoriasis is treated and what you can do to speed-up recovery.

10. Friction

Continuous friction from clothing or frequent sexual activity can lead to rashes or spots on the glans. When red spots appear due to friction, you may also experience symptoms like itching, burning, and minor swelling.

Although it’s very common, it can be one of the most difficult causes to identify, since there is no specific trigger (just prolonged rubbing on the skin of the penis).

How to treat: Adequate hygiene habits will help to relieve irritation from friction, and underwear fabrics like cotton can help to prevent it. Sleeping without underwear can also help reduce burning, as it prevents friction during sleep. You can prevent friction during sexual activity by using adequate lubricant.

11. Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause many penile-related symptoms. One of the first symptoms is the development of a small lump that can be accompanied by a red, brown, or dark spot. Read more about the symptoms of syphilis.

Although these spots usually disappear within 4 to 5 weeks, it does not mean the infection has resolved. If left untreated, syphilis can develop into a more serious phase of infection and infect the entire body. Therefore, prompt treatment is very important.

How to treat: If you suspect you may have been exposed to syphilis, you should contact your primary care provider immediately to confirm a diagnosis and start treatment with antibiotics, such as penicillin.

12. Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a skin condition that can affect the genital skin, including the penis. When this inflammatory condition affects the penis, it presents with flat, shiny, red, or purple spots, which can appear on the tip or shaft of the penis.

Other symptoms typically include itching or burning in affected areas, while chronic cases may lead to scarring and tightening of penile skin.

How to treat: To help manage itching and inflammation, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical corticosteroids to be applied on the affected areas of the skin.

If the lichen planus spots on the penis do not improve with this treatment, or if these spots affect other areas of the body, a provider may consider prescribing oral corticosteroids.

13. HPV

HPV, or human papilloma virus, is a viral infection that can lead to the appearance of genital warts. These warts are typically raised, flesh-colored, and appear as a singular spot or in clusters. Warts that become inflamed or irritated can develop into a reddened color.

Some men may also report itching, mild discomfort or bleeding if the warts become irritated.

How to treat: This virus is not curable, however the warts can be treated with topical ointments (like imiquimod) and cryotherapy to reduce discomfort. A doctor may also consider minor procedures to remove the warts, like cauterization or laser therapy.

14. Nevus

A dysplastic nevus is a benign brown or black spot that can appear anywhere on the body, including the penis. In some cases, this spot may also have a red or white border.

How to treat: Nevi are usually benign, but a new nevus that appears suddenly, especially if surrounded by others, can develop into melanoma. Skin spots that are confirmed to be melanoma should be surgically removed.

15. Penile cancer

Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that can occur as a tumor within the organ or as a growth on the skin’s surface. Key signs of penile cancer include red spots that turn into sores that don’t heal, along with changes in skin color or texture, pain, and swelling in the penis.

The exact cause of penile cancer is not fully known, however risk factors for this condition include tobacco use, poor genital hygiene habits, and HPV infections. Learn more about what causes penile cancer and other symptoms that can emerge.

How to treat: If you suspect cancer, you should see your primary care provider or a urologist right away, as early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Treatment will typically involve surgery to remove as many cancerous cells as possible. This is usually followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining tumor cells.

16. Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause several symptoms, such as small nodules or bumps on the penis, as well as dark brown or red spots called a chancre. Learn more about the symptoms of syphilis and how they can present.

Syphilis lesions may disappear with 4 to 5 weeks, however it does not mean that the disease is cured. Healing of these lesions with no treatment is typically an indication that the infection is progressing to a more serious stage. Therefore, it is important to start treatment as soon as possible.

How to treat: If you suspect you may have caught syphillis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to confirm a diagnosis and start treatment with antibiotics, such as penicillin.

Red Spots on Penis: 16 Causes, Symptoms & How to Treat