If you have eczema on the penis and scrotum caused by allergic contact dermatitis and it clears up, will masturbating or intercourse cause the eczema/skin irritation to return to the area even if the skin is no longer irritated?

Generally speaking, having intercourse or masturbating should not cause eczema/skin irritation to return to the area if the skin is no longer irritated. Depending on the extent of your eczema and how it was treated, however, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, if you were prescribed any medication for your eczema that affects the sensitive skin of your penis and scrotum (e.g., topical steroids), it’s important to stick strictly with the doctor’s instructions for when and how long you should use them. Over-use or withdrawal too early has been known to cause a recurrence of symptoms. Be sure monitor yourself closely while on treatment, looking out especially for itching or redness that may signal a return of inflammation even during sex or masturbation (1).

Secondly, many people who have had contact dermatitis allergic reactions will also become sensitized — meaning they develop an immune response — which can still be triggered by certain triggering agents even after their original irritation has gone away (2). To reduce potential relapse from such sensitization reactions: use unfragranced personal cleaning products; avoid wearing tight fitting underwear; wash new clothes before wearing; rotate between different fabrics like cotton and silk; consider using hypoallergenic condoms if problems persist after taking these steps (3).  Lastly, consult with your healthcare provider regularly so they can track any changes in condition over time to ensure the best outcome!