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Canberra Health Services
Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services

Syphilis

Genital skin is delicate and more likely to become irritated than other skin on your body. Good skin care can improve dry, itchy, and irritated skin. Sometimes your body can react to a product you have used even if you have used it for many months or years. This information can help you care for your genital skin.

Washing, showering or bathing

  • Use only water or a soap substitute like sorbolene or aqueous cream, or sparingly use mild soap-free cleansers or other bland, unscented emollient moisturiser
  • Washing once a day is usually enough
  • Use cool to warm water and avoid over-washing (1 to 2 minutes each day is enough)
  • If you have a foreskin, gently retract it each time you wash to fully reveal the head of the penis and gently wash all skin underneath the foreskin. If it is painful or difficult to retract discuss this with your health professional. Often this can be easily managed.
  • Clean any sex toys with warm water after every use

What to avoid

These products may cause dryness and irritation, and disrupt your healthy genital bacteria:

  • Soaps and body washes
  • Tea tree oil and antiseptics
  • Bubble baths, bath salts and scented oils
  • Perfumed products, ‘intimate hygiene products’ and ‘feminine wipes’
  • Genital sprays, douches, deodorants and talcum powder
  • Moist cleaning tissues like ‘wet wipes’
  • Scented toilet paper
  • Scented washing powders and scented fabric softeners
  • Panty liners and pads (use tampons, washable cotton-based “period underwear” or menstrual cups if possible). If you prefer pads, use unscented, cotton ones and change them frequently.

Decreasing friction or rubbing

  • Use your fingertips when washing. Avoid using a washcloth
  • Dry your skin by gently patting it with a soft, clean, dry towel. Don’t rub it dry.
  • Consider avoiding hair removal. Pubic hair reduces friction on your skin from clothing and skin to skin contact. Waxes, hair removal creams, shaving creams and laser hair removal can irritate your skin. If you do want to shave, use a moisturising cream like sorbolene.
  • Avoid G strings, tight underwear and tight clothing. Choose natural fibres rather than synthetic ones.
  • Avoid staying in wet swimwear or sweaty clothes for long periods
  • Use a water-based lubricant for sex

What do I do if my symptoms don’t go away?

If you have symptoms that won’t go away, see your healthcare provider.

If you need more information or have any questions, please contact the Canberra Sexual Health Centre on (02) 5124 2184 or talk to your GP.

References:

canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au