Itchy Scrotum in Men: Common Causes and When to See a Doctor

Where exactly is the itch?

The scrotum is the skin sac around the testicles. The groin crease is where the upper thigh meets the body. The glans is the head of the penis. If you can describe which area itches and whether there’s a rash, pain or swelling, you’ll give your doctor a clearer starting point. ^{[2, 3, 5, 6]}

• Scrotal skin. Heat, sweat, rubbing or a new fragranced product can irritate this area. Eczema is another possibility. Over time, repeated scratching can make the skin thicker and keep the itch going. ^{[1, 2]}
• Groin crease or inner thigh. An itchy rash with a scaly, spreading edge can occur with jock itch (tinea cruris). It often starts in one groin crease and spreads down the inner thigh. Classic jock itch usually leaves the scrotal skin unaffected. ^[3]
• Head of the penis or foreskin. Itching with redness, soreness or swelling can occur with balanitis. Irritants and infections are both possible causes. A doctor can assess the area and decide whether testing is needed. ^{[4, 5]}

Could scrotal itching be eczema?

It can be. Eczema or contact dermatitis may cause itchy, dry or irritated skin on the scrotum. A change in body wash, laundry products or something applied to the area can be a clue. If the skin has become rough or thick after weeks of rubbing or scratching, tell your doctor. That change can occur with a persistent itch and scratch cycle. ^{[1, 2]}

Rashes can look alike, especially after scratching or using several creams. A clinician may examine the skin and, if needed, take a skin scraping or swab to check for infection. ^{[2, 3]}

What can you do while you work out the cause?

• Wash gently and pat dry. Use lukewarm water on irritated skin and avoid scrubbing. Set aside any new fragranced wash, wipes or sprays that seem to trigger the itch. ^{[1, 5]}
• Reduce sweat and rubbing. Change out of damp underwear or sportswear and choose loose-fitting clothes. ^{[2, 3]}
• Check before using a medicated cream. A steroid and an antifungal have different uses. Steroids can alter the appearance of a fungal rash, and prolonged use of potent steroids can thin scrotal skin. A clinician can advise what suits the cause and location. ^{[2, 3, 5]}

When should you see a doctor?

Arrange a check if the itch persists, keeps returning, or you notice sores, discharge, pain when urinating, or a sore or swollen head of the penis. Mention any recent product changes, which creams you have tried and any possible STI exposure. A new testicular lump or swelling also needs medical assessment. ^{[1, 5, 6, 7]}

Everyday skincare options

The right care depends on where the itch is and what is causing it. If symptoms persist or keep returning, get them checked first. Each product below serves a different purpose. Follow the label directions.

Nourishing Body Wash

A rinse-off wash for the body, with aloe vera and glycerin. The ingredient list includes essential oils. Use it for general body cleansing and use lukewarm water on the irritated genital area.

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Organic Baby Lotion

A moisturiser for dry body skin, with shea butter, colloidal oatmeal and glycerin. The formula also lists sandalwood and chamomile oils. Ask a clinician before using it on irritated scrotal skin.

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No No Itchy Gel

An external-use gel for itchy skin, formulated with aloe vera, tea tree oil and lavender oil. Ask a clinician before using it on irritated scrotal skin.

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Moisturising Zinc Oxide

A barrier cream with zinc oxide, glycerin and jojoba oil. If a clinician recommends barrier care for scrotal skin affected by moisture or rubbing, ask whether this formula suits the area.

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