Genital psoriasis might explain those dry, itchy genitals - but don't let it interfere with your sex life

Genital psoriasis is a form of psoriasis that causes red, itchy patches around the genital area.
Symptoms of genital psoriasis can appear on the tip of the penis, buttocks, and inner thighs.
Topical treatments can minimize symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
Visit Insider’s Health Reference library for more advice.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy patches or bumps on the skin. It can develop anywhere on the body, including the genitals. About 63% of adults with psoriasis may experience genital psoriasis at least once in their lifetime.

“Genital psoriasis can occur anywhere on the genitals, but the tip of the penis and in folds of skin are the most common locations,” says Jeffrey M. Cohen, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. It can also affect the crease between the buttocks, skin above the genitals, and inner and upper thigh areas.

There are many ways to treat genital psoriasis, but mild topical corticosteroids are the first line of treatment. Here’s how you can recognize, treat, and avoid irritating genital psoriasis.

What is genital psoriasis?

Genital psoriasis is a form of inverse psoriasis, which commonly occurs in skin folds such as the underarms, under the breasts, and around the genital area.

“[It] generally presents as pink somewhat raised areas. Sometimes, these can be scaly, and other times, they may not be. The spots tend to be itchy, but they can also feel irritated,” says Cohen.

Thick, scaly patches called plaques can also appear on the affected area, which are either red with silvery or white buildup (for lighter skin tones) or purple, gray, or dark brown (for darker skin tones). You may experience discomfort, pain, itching, and cracking of the skin.

Treatments for psoriasis vary from one person to another, and some individuals might need a combination of treatments to reduce their symptoms.

"Studies have shown that for many patients, genital psoriasis interferes with their sex lives, for reasons such as embarrassment or discomfort, but there is no health risk (for either partner) if someone with genital psoriasis has sex," says Cohen.

Genital psoriasis might also be mistaken for eczema or fungal infection. "It is important to note that several skin conditions can look quite similar in the genital region, and a diagnosis of genital psoriasis should be made by a board-certified dermatologist," says Cohen.

What triggers genital psoriasis?

Psoriasis develops due to an overreaction of the body's immune response, which causes inflammation. As a result, new skin cells grow too fast and move to the surface, manifesting in reddish and itchy bumps.

Here are some tips to avoid irritation and further discomfort from genital psoriasis:

Avoid scratching or repeatedly touching the affected area.
Use treatment as prescribed by the dermatologist.
Wear breathable underwear as tight-fitting clothing can cause friction.
Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and moisturizer to clean the genital area and minimize chafing. Keep in mind that these products are not meant to be used inside the genitals and they're only for the surrounding external area.
Cleanse the outer genital area before and after sex, and if applicable, use a lubricated condom.
Avoid sex if the skin on or around the genitals is raw.

"Scratching or touching psoriasis cannot cause it to spread from one part of the body to another. It is also important to note that psoriasis is not at all contagious to others," says Cohen.

How do you treat psoriasis of the genital area?

There are plenty of treatment plans for genital psoriasis, and what works for one person might not work for another. Although it is a chronic condition that reduces the quality of life, proper treatment can improve it.

About 70% to 80% of cases of psoriasis are mild, requiring only topical treatments. They can come in the form of corticosteroids, which are creams and ointments that reduce inflammation when applied to the skin, or nonsteroidal agents, medications that don't contain or are not steroids, like calcineurin inhibitors that suppress the immune system and reduce symptoms.

Biologics, or medications that target specific parts of the immune system, can be very effective for many types of psoriasis and generally come in the form of a pill, injection, or intravenous infusion. "Good moisturizers, such as Vaseline, are also helpful for patients with genital psoriasis," says Cohen.

Psoriasis doesn't go away and is present for someone's entire life. "However, some people experience long periods of time when psoriasis is not active," says Cohen. Following a treatment plan closely can reduce symptoms and avoiding certain irritants can help improve your genital psoriasis.

Insider's takeaway

Genital psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can develop anywhere on the genitals, buttocks, and thigh areas. Symptoms include red and itchy patches of skin that may or may not be scaly.

To avoid discomfort and irritation, moisturize the affected area and wear breathable underwear. Genital psoriasis is treated with topical medications and biologics (aka medications that target the cause of psoriasis), so talk to your healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment plan for you.