The male genitalia also form an interface between various skin types with and without hair. The lack of a large mucosal surface makes infection less of a problem, but the presence of hair is a complicating factor.
Anatomy and Physiology
The male genitalia is characterized by the thin skin of the scrotum interfacing with the keratinized skin of the penis abuting the transitional mucosal skin of the head of the penis. In uncircumcised males, the head of the penis and the part of the penis beneath the foreskin is true mucosa. This true mucosa is a common site of infection, but is not found in the circumcised male.
Common Dermatologic Disease Considerations
The most common dermatologic disease seen in the male is known as “jock itch.” It represents a fungal infection, medically known as tinea cruris, again due to the same organisms that cause ringworm and toenail infections. The fungus can be passed between partners with direct contact, which is usually how females acquire the infection. Yeast infections of the penis can also occur, but this is less common in the circumcised male. Other infections, such as venereal disease may occur, but this is beyond the scope of this discussion.
Hygiene Needs
The hygiene needs of the male genitalia mainly focus around moisture and body odor control. Both are related because moisture is necessary for the growth of bacteria that cause body odor, thus eliminating wetness solves both problems. No personal antiperspirants exist for the area and moisture-absorbing powders usually become sticky, creating another problem.
Skin Care Needs
The need for skin lubrication does not exist for the male like it does for the female. All of the body surfaces that move with locomotion are keratinized and do not require lubrication.
This section has presented an overview of cutaneous formulation issues that must be considered when developing successful products for a given body area. Each major body area has been discussed in terms of anatomy and physiology of the anatomic site, common dermatologic disease considerations, hygiene needs, and skin care needs. Yet, there is much more that could be written for the person who wishes further study. This list contains major dermatology textbooks that should consulted for additional information.
1. Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Rapini RP: Dermatology, Mosby, London.
2. Schachner LA, Hansen RC: Pediatric Dermatology, Mosby, London.
3. Freedberg IM, Eisen AZ, Wolff K, Austen KF, Goldsmith LA, Katz SI, Firzpatrick TB: Dermatology in General Medicine, McGraw-Hill, New York.