Hi, about 2 weeks ago I noticed 2 small brown patches (like freckles) on my glans. They don’t hurt or itch or anything they are just there. They’re not raised and tend to fade a little when I get erect. I haven’t had unprotected sex or anything so not an STD. I’m just concerned because I’ve never noticed them before. I’m 40 years old by the way
Dear andrew,
These tiny brown spots are sometimes a ‘marker’ of localised irritation, referred to as post-inflammatory (hyper)pigmentation. There is nothing sinister about them. For whatever reason the glans was irritated by something (e.g. rubbing, friction from running, jogging, masturbation, etc) and the melanocytes on the skin responded by producing melanin, hence the pigmentation. This reaction is often more noticeable on genitalia as genital skin is generally darker (more melanin-producing cells) than other parts of your body.
Adhari
Thank you very much for taking the time to respond. Your answer is reassuring. Will these spots disappear over time? Like I say, I’ve never had these before so not really sure what to expect.
regards
It depends if the irritant (cause) has been eliminated. Reflect on what may have irritated the penis and see if you can change your habit/s or lifestyle accordingly.