That Itchy Penis May Come From Time in the Hot Tub!

Spending time in the hot tub can be an excellent way to relax and let sore muscles get the heat and jet-provided massaging action they crave. But what if a guy comes out of that hot tub with a regrettably itchy penis? Unfortunately, this can sometimes be the case, and the condition can go even beyond penis health, often creating an itchy rash all over the body.

Hot tub fun

Hot tubs have become a big part of the American social scene over the last few decades. Although hot tubs are often used solely for "family friendly" recreational activity, they also have a reputation for being an especially rewarding place to have sex. The stimulation provided by the pulsating jets of water, combined with the heat, can make sex in the hot tub irresistible to some.

Unfortunately, unless properly and regularly cleaned, a hot tub can also become a breeding ground for bacteria. The hot water is very attractive to bacteria, and unless a proper amount of chlorine is added at appropriate times, bacteria can grow and get all over the skin of people in the tub. And ironically, the rash tends to be more prominent on and around the penis, as wearing a swimsuit traps the bacteria against the skin more directly for a longer period of time. (Hot tubbing in the nude, however, does not totally protect against the rash; it merely means it may be less severe.)

Hot tub folliculitis

One of the more common causes of itchy penis (and of a rash in other parts of the body) is something called folliculitis (often called simply rash). This is an especially unattractive prickling rash; although it can be contracted from bacteria, it is more common in tubs made of wood.

Hot tub folliculitis usually appears a few hours after using the tub, but there can be a delayed reaction, resulting in its appearance a few days after exposure to the bacteria. This rash tends to develop around hair follicles, as the bacteria nestles in at the root of the follicle and starts infecting the area.

This rash strongly resembles chicken pox in its early days, although as it progresses it comes to resemble a field of pimples. Like chicken pox, folliculitis is extremely itchy; in some cases, people report it can be painful, often producing a burning or stinging feeling when aggravated.

The good news is that the condition usually resolves itself within a week or two; the bad news is that it is uncomfortable and unattractive while it persists. That itchy penis is not likely to get much pleasure while the rash is present. A rash that lasts beyond two weeks may need antibiotic treatment.

Yeast, too

In some cases, also be a breeding ground for yeast. While yeast infections are more common in women than in men, they do occur on the penis - and can produce a mighty itch.

In order to reduce the chance of a related itchy penis, men need to be sure that the tub in question has been properly cleaned and disinfected. It also helps to limit the amount of time in the tub; longer exposure increases the risk of infection. Finally, showering after using the tub can help displace bacteria.

An itchy penis, from a hot tub or from other sources, needs to be moisturized. Daily use of a top notch penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) with a combination of moisturizers is required. Look for one with both Shea butter (a high-end emollient) and vitamin E (a natural hydrator) for good results that keep the skin supple and smooth. It's a plus if the crème also contains alpha lipoic acid, a potent antioxidant that fights oxidative stress, leaving penis skin stronger and less prone to infection.