Men’s health
Penile hygiene tips: how to clean your penis properly
Good penile hygiene prevents irritation, odour and infections, yet most men were never taught how to do it properly. Here are simple, practical penile hygiene tips.
In short: Wash your penis once a day with warm water and a mild, unscented cleanser. If you are uncircumcised, gently pull back the foreskin, rinse away smegma, dry and return the foreskin. Avoid harsh soaps and over-washing. Change underwear daily and wash after sex. Persistent odour, discharge or redness should be checked.
What is smegma?
Smegma is a natural build-up of dead skin cells, oils and moisture under the foreskin. It is normal, but if not washed away regularly it can cause odour, irritation and infection such as balanitis. See balanitis.
How to clean your penis
If you are uncircumcised
1. Gently pull back the foreskin as far as it comfortably goes. Never force it.
2. Rinse the head and under the foreskin with warm water.
3. Use a small amount of mild, unscented cleanser on the shaft if you like, and rinse thoroughly.
4. Dry gently.
5. Return the foreskin to its normal position. Leaving it pulled back can cause swelling (paraphimosis, an emergency).
If you are circumcised
Wash the shaft, head and base daily with warm water and a mild cleanser, then dry.
Don’t forget
- The base of the penis and pubic area
- The scrotum and the skin between the scrotum and thighs
Products to avoid
- Perfumed soaps, shower gels and bubble baths
- Antiseptics and harsh cleansers
- Talc on the genitals
- Douching or scrubbing
Over-washing can strip natural oils and cause dryness and itching. See itchy penis causes.
Daily habits
- Change underwear daily, choosing breathable cotton.
- Dry thoroughly after showering and exercise.
- Shower after the gym or heavy sweating.
- Wash after sex.
- Keep pubic hair trimmed if you prefer, avoiding cuts and irritation.
Odour: what is normal?
A mild musky scent is normal. A strong, fishy or unpleasant smell, especially with discharge, can indicate infection and needs checking.
When to see someone
See an appropriately registered medical professional if you have discharge, sores, persistent redness, pain, or difficulty pulling back the foreskin. See phimosis: tight foreskin in adult men.
How we can help
Our naturopaths offer discreet advice on genital comfort, skin health and sexual wellbeing, and refer you for medical care when needed.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I wash my penis?
Once a day with warm water and a mild, unscented cleanser is enough for most men.
What is the white stuff under my foreskin?
It is likely smegma, a natural build-up of skin cells and oils. Gentle daily washing removes it.
Why does my penis smell?
Mild odour is normal. A strong smell with discharge or redness may mean infection.
Should I use soap on my penis?
A mild, unscented cleanser is fine. Avoid perfumed soaps and harsh products.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
