Hirsuties papillaris genitalis (aka Pearly Penile Papules or PPP) are small white coloured skin tags or domes that form around the penis gland. They appear in rows around the rim of the penis head and may also appear on either side of the frenulum. [See Hirsuties Papillaris Genitalis Pictures]

If you have pimple like structures either singularly or in clusters on the shaft of the penis or scrotum then this is not hirsuties papillaris genitalis. These are commonly known as 'Fordyce Spots' or 'Sebaceous Prominence'. There is a great member rich forum devoted to Sebaceous Prominence run, funnily enough, by another Dennis. Check it out here. Alternatively, you may like to google these terms for a more appropriate website.

Hirsuties papillaris genitalis are considered a "normal" variant. They are totally harmless and are not contagious in any way. They are not a sexually transmitted disease (STD) therefore you could not have been "infected" by sexual contact nor is there a risk of passing this onto your sexual partner.

On appearance, they can sometimes be mistaken for a sexually transmitted disease, such as genital warts. The skin tags should not be open wounds, should not weep and should not itch or cause any irritation. If they do then they may not be hirsuties papillaris genitalis.

If you are unsure or need reassurance you should consult a doctor for guidance.

Cause

The cause or rather the reason hirsuties papillaris genitalis (aka pearly penile papules) appear is unknown. Some say they may be swollen or blocked sweat glans or pores. However, one thing is known and that is they are in no way related to sexual activity or bad hygiene.

A study shows "Pearly penile papules usually begin to appear between the ages of 20 and 40 years" (Dean, 2000). However, various reports from teenagers over the internet and from my own history they have also been known to appear in boys as young as 12 - 14 years old.

Another study purports:

In the US: "the incidence of pearly penile papules reportedly ranges from 8-48%. Several reports suggest an increased incidence in uncircumcised versus circumcised men (22% vs. 12%, respectively). One study found a greater incidence in black versus white men, in those circumcised (21% vs. 7%, respectively) and uncircumcised (44% vs. 33%, respectively)" (Brown, C 2001).

Many men, unbeknown to them, harbor hirsuties papillaris genitalis just below the skin surface. On close inspection faint white dots can be seen under the skin. For these men the papules do not grow/protrude, so they are none the wiser.

Treatment

Once hirsuties papillaris genitalis appear it may take up to 4 years for them to completely come to the surface. When this period of growth ends they do not seem to grow any more and unfortunately do not subside or disappear by themselves. There have been reports of them diminishing (but not disappearing) with age, however the degree that they diminish is unclear. Reports from guys in the 40 - 60 age range indicate that pearly penile papules will remain throughout your life. In my experience over the last 11years they did not diminish in appearance at all.

They are not dangerous to your health and in no way should you attempt to remove them yourself as you could do more damage.

As hirsuties papillaris genitalis are considered a "normal" variant, Dermatologists advise that no treatment is required. There is no known cream or topical application that is effective in removing hirsuties papillaris genitalis. This includes wart removal products. There have been many home remedies touted over the Internet, and many I have tried myself, however none have shown to be effective in even diminishing the appearance of hirsuties papillaris genitalis let alone removing them completely. Check out my review of some wart removal products that claim to "cure" hirsuties papillaris genitalis (aka pearly penile papules).

If, like me, you do want your hirsuties papillaris genitalis removed for cosmetic reasons, and to ease any anxieties that you may feel, there is a simple cosmetic procedure available that is supported by the medical profession. CO2 laser treatment has been documented as effective and I am living proof that it works. It is a very effective treatment with little discomfort and disruption to your life. NoMorePapules.com details my story through treatment.