What causes white scale in the foreskin?

White scale in the foreskin is usually caused by the accumulation of smegma, which may be related to factors such as excessive foreskin length, poor local hygiene, bacterial infection, fungal infection, allergic reaction and other factors. Smegma is a substance formed by mixing the inner plate of the foreskin with glans secretions, exfoliated epidermal cells, etc. Long-term accumulation may cause inflammation or odor.

1. Foreskin is too long

Excessive foreskin will cause the space between the inner plate of the foreskin and the glans to be narrow, making it difficult to clean secretions and exfoliated cells, and it is easy to accumulate smegma. Excessive foreskin may also be accompanied by symptoms such as poor urination and local moisture. Daily care should be taken to wash the foreskin and keep it dry. In severe cases, circumcision may be considered.

2. Poor local hygiene

Incomplete cleaning will result in residual urine, semen or secretions in the foreskin, which combines with exfoliated cells to form white dirt. It may be accompanied by itching or mild redness and swelling. It is recommended to wash the inside and outside of the foreskin with warm water every day, avoid using irritating lotions, and dry it promptly after cleaning.

3. Bacterial infection

Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli can lead to increased secretions and the formation of yellow-white purulent smegma, which is often accompanied by redness, pain, or burning sensation during urination. If you need to see a doctor for secretion testing, you can use erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment and other topical antibacterial drugs as directed by your doctor.

4. Fungal infection

Candida albicans infection can cause white tofu-like smegma, accompanied by severe itching and scaling. It is common in patients with diabetes or those who take antibiotics for a long time. Diagnosis needs to be confirmed by fungal microscopy, and antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole cream and miconazole nitrate cream can be used as directed by your doctor.

5. Allergic reaction

When you are allergic to detergents, condoms or underwear materials, allergic inflammation may occur in the foreskin, leading to an increase in abnormal discharge. It appears as white floc attached, accompanied by rash or stinging. It is necessary to check for allergens and avoid contact. In severe cases, hydrocortisone cream can be used for a short period of time.

You should choose breathable cotton underwear for daily use and avoid sitting for long periods of time or wearing tight pants. When cleaning, the water temperature should not be too high, and the action should be gentle to avoid damaging the mucous membrane. If the white scale is accompanied by odor, ulcers or persistent discomfort, you need to seek medical attention promptly to rule out sexually transmitted diseases or other urinary system diseases. Parents of adolescent patients should be instructed on the correct cleaning methods, and it is not recommended for pre-pubescent children to forcibly clean their foreskin.