How to recognise psoriasis in the genital area

Most people with psoriasis in the genital area suffer from inverse psoriasis (psoriasis in the skin folds). Typically affected areas include the knees or elbows, abdominal crease, breast crease, or also the genital area. A lack of scaling is characteristic and hinders diagnosis. 

Redness and itchiness are the most common symptoms, and they are endured for a long time because going to the doctor is fraught with shame. In women, the groin, pubic mound, and vulva including the labia are usually affected. Men complain of psoriasis on the scrotum, and the tip and/or base of the penis. For both sexes, the area between the genitals and anus may also be affected. 

To make a diagnosis, the doctor must distinguish between different conditions. A fungal infection prefers a warm and humid environment and is often the trigger of symptoms in the genital area. 

To confirm a psoriasis diagnosis, the doctor may send off a tissue sample. However, this is not usually necessary. In cases of mild to moderate psoriasis, treatment with our Alnovat psoriasis cream can be started and used safely in the genital area.

Treatment / therapy for genital psoriasis

Depending on the severity of the condition, a wide range of treatment options are available. For mild forms of the condition with smaller lesions, the dermatologist will initially prescribe creams and lotions. The use of ointments with a high fat content should be cautioned against because this will exacerbate the moist and warm climate that occurs due to skin rubbing against skin.

Treatment in the genital area entails a couple of special features, but there are options for treating psoriasis. Sitz baths can restore the damaged acid mantle of the skin. In the event of severe flare-ups, the treating doctor can prescribe cortisone.

This will be stopped quickly once the acute phase has resolved.

Cortisone should be avoided, if at all possible, especially in the genital area. The skin is very thin in this area and can become thinner due to the use of cortisone because this is a typical side effect.

After bathing or showering, you can safely use our Alnovat psoriasis cream. Applied in a thin layer twice a day, Alnovat is absorbed into the affected skin and develops its natural effect.

Frequency of psoriasis in the genital area

Psoriasis in the genital area mainly affects people with inverse psoriasis (psoriasis in the skin folds). With other forms of psoriasis, however, the genital area is rarely affected. As many sufferers experience a great deal of distress due to their psoriasis, there are presumably lots of cases that go unreported.

Psoriasis in the genital area - intimate hygiene

Whether healthy or unwell, everyone should take good care of their genital area to prevent diseases or alleviate symptoms. The two most common errors are washing too little or too much. Both of which can have a negative effect on the skin's acid mantle.

The genital area should be washed carefully once a day.

It is also recommended to change your underwear once a day. Psoriasis sufferers can decide for themselves whether they should change their underwear more often, depending on the severity of their flare-up.

Clothing should be as breathable as possible to prevent a buildup of moisture.

Care products for both men and women should be made from natural ingredients. Soaps and shower gels with added fragrance can damage the acid mantle and put additional stress on the affected skin.

Intimate shaving is possible in principle. While safe during symptom-free intervals, it could also irritate the skin during flare-ups.

Which parts of the body can be affected by psoriasis?

Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, and its typical symptoms can be a hindrance in everyday life. Body parts exposed to a lot of stress are often affected by psoriasis, typically including the hands, arms, and elbows.

Other affected areas that can be very distressing are visible parts of the head, i.e. facial and scalp psoriasis.

The good news - Our Alnovat psoriasis cream works on all the mentioned body parts.

Alnovat cream is an effective, well-tolerated, and natural therapy for mild to moderate psoriasis. Applying Alnovat twice a day will make your life even better.