Regardless of your skin tone, you’ve probably noticed that your penis (and your genital area in general) is a darker color than the rest of your body. The good news is that this is totally normal, and it happens for a variety of reasons.
Generally, the groin and scrotum have a higher concentration of Melanin than other parts of the body. That’s because melanocyte cells that produce pigment (the stuff that gives skin its color) are more active around the genital area, causing it to darken when exposed to UV rays. This is why people with African, South Asian or Middle Eastern ancestry tend to have darker genital skin than those of European descent.
As you get older, the color of your groin may start to change due to hormone changes, friction and inflammation, or health conditions. It’s also a common side effect of certain drugs, such as oral contraceptives or steroids. However, if you notice a sudden, significant change in your penis’ color, it’s important to seek medical attention as this could be a sign of a dangerous condition like diabetes.
In addition, people with a history of sexually transmitted infections can also experience penile discoloration as a result of inflammation and increased melanin production. If you’re concerned about your groin and scrotum’s color, contact a doctor for a checkup or to learn more about how to keep it healthy and consistent.