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What causes stretch marks and white spots on the foreskin?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I got stretch marks on my foreskin 18 months ago and some tiny white spots. It would get torn when stretched, which would take days to heal. But now the tearing has stopped, and the marks and a couple of white spots remain. What might be the issue?

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Thank you for your detailed explanation. It sounds like you are dealing with a condition that requires attention, but it is great that the tearing has stopped, which indicates some healing has occurred. There are a few potential causes for the symptoms you are describing. Lichen sclerosus or lichen planus, chronic skin conditions, could cause white patches, thinning skin, and tearing on the foreskin or penis, often leaving stretch mark-like scars or white spots. These conditions are not usually related to infections, but a skin check and possibly a biopsy may be needed if the symptoms persist. Post-inflammatory scarring is also a possibility, where repeated tearing and healing lead to scar tissue that appears as stretch marks or white spots. Fordyce spots, which are small white or pale spots on the foreskin or shaft, are another common and harmless condition.

They are not contagious and are often mistaken for something more serious. Another possibility is balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO), a type of lichen sclerosus, which can cause tightening, white patches, scarring, and discomfort. Over time, this could lead to phimosis, which would require attention from a urologist. While it is less likely now that a fungal or viral infection, such as candida, HPV, or herpes, could have caused the initial symptoms, since the tearing has stopped and there is no active pain, the infection is likely not ongoing. To move forward, you should consider seeing a dermatologist or urologist if the spots or marks are causing concern or affecting function. Use mild, non-scented moisturizers like petroleum jelly or gentle barrier creams, and avoid harsh soaps or frequent scrubbing. If the foreskin still feels tight but does not tear, gentle stretching exercises after warm showers can help, as long as there is no pain.

Given that the symptoms began after unsafe oral sex, it would be wise to consider STI testing for herpes, HPV, or syphilis to rule out infections. If the white spots increase, become painful, or if the skin starts to tighten again, it's important to get checked in person. A topical steroid like Hydrocortisone may be required, but only under medical supervision. If you are comfortable, sharing a photo, even if blurry or cropped, could help provide more accurate suggestions. Would you like help drafting questions for your doctor or dermatologist?

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At June 15, 2025
Reviewed AtJune 24, 2025

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