Swimming is a sensational form of exercise, and dedicated swimmers tend to be among the more physically fit of men. There are numerous benefits to swimming, but as with most things, there can be some downsides – and so swimmers may need to take steps for a little penis protection in order to maintain optimum penis health. Here are some of the potential problems swimmers might face and how to correct them.
Mesh jocks
Most swimsuits are built to provide some extra “coverage” of the penis so the clingy wet fabric doesn’t clearly reveal a man’s endowment. Frequently this coverage comes in the form of a mesh “jock.” There’s nothing wrong with a little modesty, but often this little bit of penis protection ends up causing considerable chafing and rashiness – especially if swimmers are spending time in salt water. The salt and sand can get caught in the mesh, creating significant discomfort in the entire penile area. Often the rash can linger for quite some time, causing discomfort even when wearing loose fitting boxers.
Red penis
Many men have experienced this: going for a swim at the local pool and removing their swimsuit to find their penis is abnormally red. In some cases, it may be sensitive and burn a bit. Those prone to panic may fear that an STI is responsible for this state of affairs, but in most instances it’s a simpler culprit: too much chlorine.
When the chlorine level in the swimming pool is too high, swimmers may experience a chemical burn on the penis – and elsewhere. The balls may also take on a redder-than-usual hue, as may the buttocks, and patches of skin throughout the body may be affected as well. (Except in cases where the chlorine is especially high, the redness is often limited to the midsection, for the simple reason that not only does the skin absorb the chlorine, but so does the swimsuit – which then releases the chlorine onto the skin when a person steps out of the pool.)
Dry penis
Since being surrounded by water is a hallmark of swimming, one would think that dry penis skin would be the last problem a swimmer might face. In fact, the opposite is often the case. Because swimmers spend so much time in water, the natural oils that keep the skin hydrated can become depleted all over the body, including the penis. This is especially true of those who frequent swimming pools, where prolonged exposure to chlorine can sap the skin of these oils.
Swimmer’s itch
Although chlorinated pools can create some penis protection problems, so can freshwater swimming sources. One of the more common side effects of swimming in lakes and ponds is a skin condition called swimmer’s itch, which can be especially annoying when it occurs on the penis. Swimmer’s itch occurs when parasites that live on ducks or other waterfowl get on a human. They die quickly, but they leave behind an itchy rash that can last for days.
Treatment
Showering or washing immediately upon leaving the water is usually a good idea in order to cleanse the skin of chlorine, salt and other irritants. It also helps to take steps to keep the skin smooth and moisturized.
Swimmers should therefore apply a reliable penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) after washing in order to take penis protection to the next step. The penis skin will respond especially well to a crème that includes a combination of moisturizers, such as a high-end emollient (Shea butter from the fruit of the Shea tree is exceptional) and a natural hydrator (vitamin E is excellent). This will re-hydrate the skin and help relieve itchiness as well. In addition, a crème with vitamin A is highly advised. Why? Vitamin A has anti-bacterial properties, so any stray bacteria that have been picked up along the way, especially from the locker room, can be dealt with fast.
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