Hygienic Genitals Are Healthy Genitals. Observe Some Do's and Don'ts

The men's hygiene market is taking off—increasing by 6 percent annually—and with it comes a line of new products designed to keep your genitals clean. While many men were once averse to products that they perceived as effeminate, they're slowly lowering their guard. But even with these innovative products, do you know what the hell you're doing down there? Maybe not. So the next time you're in the shower, avoid irritation and enjoy a deep-down clean by following these do's and don'ts of penis and testicle hygiene.

Do this

Penis and testicle hygiene at its simplest is straightforward. Remain gentle and calm and don't neglect any part of the area, washing from tip to undercarriage. However, you need to do more than that to achieve a decently clean area that's free from odor and bacteria.

Peel back the foreskin

Uncircumcised men are more susceptible to bacteria that can hide underneath the foreskin. This is due to a cheesy substance called smegma that's healthy, but only in small quantities. To avoid a clump of smegma, peel back your foreskin and gently wash it away with warm water. No need to go to town here; it should come off with just a gentle scrub.

Sexually or physically active? Get in there immediately

One of the worst things you can do for your genital hygiene is to delay cleaning after sex or an intense workout. Both of these activities provide a potential breeding ground for infection and odors due to sweat and other fluids. Therefore, a hop into the shower after either activity is essential—and it's sexy and even romantic to share a little shower time with your partner.

Don't do this

Penis and testicle hygiene isn't just about following a standard procedure. It's also about avoiding certain actions that can inflame the skin or give bacteria a chance to start a colony on your genitals. Hopefully, you don't learn by mistake, but these tips will give you an idea of where to start (or where not to start).

Pump the brakes on the fragrances

Some men shower themselves in body sprays and cologne. Sometimes, in the hope of impressing a potential partner, this is taken to an exponential level. But spraying alcohol-based fragrances onto your johnson isn't a smart move. Alcohol can irritate the skin. Maybe it isn't as bad as chopping jalapeños and taking an ill-advised leak right afterward, but it's not going to feel great. And even though a good, strong cologne might pique the interest of others, they probably don't want to huff enough of the stuff to get light-headed moments before you do the deed.

Don't accentuate the package too much

Men's undergarments have changed over time, with tighty-whities giving way to loose boxers, which eventually led to boxer briefs. While the style itself is one of personal preference, one choice you want to make is cotton.

Spandex-style material and other synthetic fibers don't breathe. You know all that careful cleaning you did? It all goes out the window when you wear these tight materials in the hopes of keeping your boys in place. If you can, always go with cotton, which will help you avoid a sweaty mess (and the associated odors) that can do a number on your genital hygiene.

Don't overpay for the men's cleaner

Men's soap has become so advanced that you might feel overwhelmed by a seemingly endless array of options at the store. Some brands even swear they're better for your man area than others, but it's all just a marketing ploy. As long as you pick a gentle, fragrance-free soap, there's no sense in forking out big bucks when other options will do the trick all the same.

No one knows your member better than you do

If you adhere to these guidelines, your penis and testicle health should soar to new heights. But don't forget: No one knows your genitals better than you do. If one of the do's is irritating your skin, don't keep doing it and expect different results. A bit of trial and error is essential for a thorough cleansing. Keep an eye out for your boys because you get only one pair. Find out what works for you, and you'll have one less step to worry about in the shower.