A pimple can form on your penis when your pores get blocked up with oil and bacteria. It should heal on its own, but if it doesn’t, see a doctor. Other conditions can cause similar lumps and bumps.

A pimple is a type of lesion that occurs when a pore becomes clogged. It can develop anywhere you have pores, which means it can appear on your penis.

Given the area’s sensitive nature, there are a few specific symptoms you should check for before attempting a self-diagnosis. Other bumps and lumps that occur around the penis could be something else entirely, and may require medical attention.

Read on to learn more about these types of pimples and whether the bumps may be a symptom of something more serious.

Penile lesions like a pimple can appear on any part of your penis, including the prepuce (foreskin), glans (head), and shaft. They could also appear on your scrotum, which is the sac that contains the testicles.

The appearance of a pimple may depend on the materials that plug up the pore. For example, oil and dead skin cells may lead to blackheads and whiteheads. A mix of bacteria, oil, and cells can cause a pimple with or without a head.

Pimples may also:

  • contain pus
  • feel tender to the touch
  • feel like a hardened bump

A pimple on the penis may also have a crater-like appearance, though this is more rare.

Pimples are traditionally associated with acne, which occurs when the pores on the skin become blocked with oil or debris, such as dead skin.

Sometimes, other penile lesions, bumps, and papules can develop and appear similar to pimples. These may include the following:

Fordyce spot

A Fordyce spot is a visible sebaceous gland. Sebaceous glands are usually located underneath hair follicles, but they’re visible on areas that don’t have hair, like the penis. The resulting spots are small and may be white or yellow.

You may be able to tell if you have Fordyce spots on your penis if you also have them inside your mouth. These spots most often form in clusters of between 50 and 100 at a time.

While harmless, sometimes Fordyce spots can cause aesthetic concerns. Certain dermatologic procedures, such as laser therapy, can help.

Folliculitis

Hair follicle inflammation may lead to bumps near the base of pubic hair growth. The resulting discolored, pimple-like bumps are related to a condition known as folliculitis. These bumps may also be painful and itchy.

Folliculitis may resolve on its own without treatment. However, stubborn or recurring cases may require topical antimicrobials. This helps clear the existing bumps while preventing future inflammation.

Razor burn

Razor burns occur on recently shaved skin, resulting in discoloration and irritation. Minor cuts are also possible. As the affected skin heals, a combination of ingrown hairs and other pus-filled bumps may form along the rash.

Razor burn bumps tend to heal on their own. To soothe irritated skin, apply an oatmeal-based body lotion to the area. It’s also a good idea to apply this lotion every time you shave to prevent future irritation.

Penile cysts

Cysts are small bumps beneath the skin that typically contain fluid or pus.

There are different types of penile cysts, but the most common is a smegma cyst, sometimes known as smegmoma. It may develop beneath the foreskin area in people who aren’t circumcised due to a buildup of smegma.

Most cysts on the penis are benign and don’t require treatment.

Syringomas

These are small, soft, and discolored benign tumors that affect sweat ducts. They usually appear along the penile shaft.

A doctor can help you decide if treatment is necessary.

Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules are small, dome-shaped lesions that appear in rows on the band between the penile glans and shaft. They’re benign and may affect 14% to 48% of people with a penis.

Treatment isn’t necessary for pearly penile papules, but they can be managed for cosmetic reasons.

Tyson glands

Tyson glands are visible sebaceous glands. These bumps form around the frenulum, or the small tissue folds underneath the penis. The resulting spots are small and may be white or yellow.

They’re considered harmless and don’t require treatment, according to research from 2013.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Penile pimples can occur regardless of whether you’re sexually active.

However, if you’re sexually active, you’re at risk for contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause symptoms similar to pimples on the penis, scrotum, and groin area.

Some STIs include:

Treatment for STIs usually involves a course of antibiotics. It’s important to complete the whole course to prevent complications.

STIs may cause additional complications if left untreated, so if you’re unsure of your bumps, pimples, or lesions, connect with a doctor. They can help determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

The best way to treat pimples on your penis is to leave them alone. A hands-off approach will usually keep genital acne from worsening. The pimple is also likely to resolve on its own if the area is kept clean and dry.

As tempting as it may be, you should neverpop penile pimples. This could make them worse and cause an infection. Popping can also spread bacteria, possibly leading to even more pimples.

It’s important to note that, in most cases, you can’t treat a penile pimple with over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are often used for pimples on other body parts.

The skin in this area is thinner and more sensitive. Common OTC acne products, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, may be too harsh for this area. You could end up with a significant rash and itchiness as a result.

If a penile pimple doesn’t improve after 1 week or worsens, speak with a doctor or pharmacist about any possible treatments.

You may be able to prevent penile pimples by:

A healthcare professional can also recommend other prevention tips.

Pimples usually develop when skin pores get clogged with oil or dead skin cells.

Sometimes, other bumps on the penis may look like pimples. These may be due to razor burn, folliculitis, and STIs, among other conditions.

If you’re concerned about a penile pimple, speak with a doctor. They can examine your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.