The right way to clean smegma, white spots on male genitalia

Smegma is a white, pulp or cheese-like texture, which comes from the build-up of oil and dead skin cells. Usually, smegma is found in the folds of the skin of the uncircumcised penis or the folds of the labia in the vagina.

If not cleaned, smegma will smell, dry out, and have the potential to cause irritation on the genital skin. Then, how to solve it? Read on for this article to find out how to clean smegma in men and women.

How to clean smegma in men and women

Quoted from WebMD, smegma in men usually accumulates in the folds of the skin of the uncircumcised penis. This happens because the body produces natural lubricants so that these skin folds are easily attracted, especially when an erection.

This lubricant can build up under the skin folds along with oil, dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria. Therefore, smegma is less common in men who have been circumcised.

Smegma can also be found in women. Usually, smegma appears in the folds of the labia or around the clitoris in the vagina. If left untreated, smegma can cause the vagina to smell bad.

However, smegma is a normal condition. However, you must clean it thoroughly to prevent infection or balanitis.

The most basic way to clean smegma in men and women is to clean the genitals thoroughly, especially in the inner folds of the skin and around them. In addition, you also have to pay attention to cleaning techniques.

1. Gently pull on the skin

If the smegma has dried, it is likely that the folds of skin of the penis or vagina will stick together and be difficult to pull out. It's best to pull gently on the skin to prevent the appearance of scars. Avoid pulling hard as this can cause pain and injury to the penis.

2. Use a mild soap

Choosing the right soap is one of the most important ways to clean smegma in men and women. Avoid using soaps that contain heavy chemicals or scrub.

You can also use essential oils to help break down dry smegma. For women, avoid applying or inserting soap and oil products into the vagina.

3. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry

Use warm water to rinse and make sure that no soap residue remains on the skin. Then, pat dry with a towel. Rubbing the genitals too hard has the potential to cause irritation.

4. Avoid using sharp tools, cloth, or cotton

It is better if you do not force using sharp tools, cloth, or cotton to scrape the dry smegma on the skin. This can actually cause irritation.

Perform the steps above every day until the smegma disappears. If the smegma doesn't go away or there is redness on your penis, see a doctor immediately.

For women, be alert immediately and see a doctor if signs appear such as itching, burning sensation, and yellow or green vaginal discharge.

Tips for preventing smegma

After knowing how to clean smegma in men and women, you must also prevent smegma from recurring. The trick is to improve your overall body hygiene.

Always clean your penis or vagina every day, and avoid using harsh soaps to wash the genitals.

Use underwear with a comfortable material, such as cotton. Cotton also helps improve air circulation in your genital skin. Pants that are too tight and don't absorb sweat properly have the potential to cause smegma to reappear.