Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans penis (head of the penis) that can affect men and boys. It is not usually serious, but its important to see a healthcare provider to determine its cause and receive the proper treatment. Balanitis can occur due to an infection, allergic reaction, or injury. The most common cause of balanitis is related to inadequate personal hygiene in uncircumcised males leading to infection. Other causes include:

• Genital yeast infection (candidiasis)
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Scabies (tiny burrowing parasite) infection
• Sensitivity or allergy to harsh soaps or chemicals
• Skin conditions that cause itchy, dry, scaly skin (such as psoriasis and eczema)
• Diabetes

If you have foreskin, the most common cause of balanitis is infrequently cleaning your penis and under your foreskin. Balanitis can also be caused by over-washing, which can cause irritation and swelling. Balanitis can affect up to 1 in 10 people who have a penis, and it’s more likely to occur if you have foreskin.