Normal Variations in Male Glans Appearance and Hygiene

The urinary tract?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I've been observing my genital area more frequently.
When I retract the foreskin, the area I see is called the glans.
I would like to ask you, doctor, when a male's glans is dry, it appears to have some wrinkled lines or small elevations, similar to the skin on the back of the hand.
It may not be actual elevations, but it has a somewhat textured appearance.
However, when I rinse it with water while showering, it becomes smooth.
Previously, I went to see a urologist with a family member, and they said that I don't need to have a circumcision.
During the examination, the doctor only used a light to check and told me there was no problem, but I should keep it clean.
Is it normal for the glans to appear somewhat elevated or wrinkled when dry after a shower? I feel a bit embarrassed to ask anyone else, so I came here to inquire anonymously.
Thank you!

Yuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/20

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the wrinkled appearance of the glans you described is a normal phenomenon, so there is no need to worry.
As for whether circumcision is necessary, doctors typically assess whether the foreskin can be retracted to expose the glans to determine if it is too long.
It seems your physician has determined that circumcision is not needed; however, regular cleaning is indeed important.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/10/20

More Info

It's completely normal to have questions about the appearance and hygiene of the glans penis, especially if you're noticing changes or variations. The glans, or the head of the penis, can exhibit different textures and appearances depending on various factors, including hydration, temperature, and individual anatomy.

When the glans is dry, it may appear wrinkled or have small raised areas, which can resemble the texture of the skin on the back of your hand. This is a normal characteristic of the skin and is often due to the natural elasticity and folds of the skin. The skin on the glans is sensitive and can react to environmental factors, such as dryness or moisture. When you wash the area, the water hydrates the skin, causing it to appear smoother and less wrinkled. This change is typical and not a cause for concern.

It's also important to maintain good hygiene in this area. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. After washing, ensure that the area is dried properly to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to irritation or infections. If you notice any unusual changes, such as persistent redness, swelling, or discharge, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

Regarding the advice you received from the urologist, it sounds like they performed a thorough examination and determined that there were no issues requiring circumcision. This is a common recommendation for individuals who do not experience problems related to their foreskin. Circumcision is typically only necessary if there are medical concerns such as phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin) or recurrent infections.

In summary, the appearance of the glans can vary significantly based on hydration and other factors, and the wrinkled or textured appearance when dry is generally normal. As long as you maintain good hygiene and do not experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms, there is usually no cause for concern. If you have ongoing worries or notice any changes, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Your health and comfort are important, and it's always better to ask questions and seek clarification when it comes to your body.

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