Keratinization: What is it, and Why does it Matter?

One of the main functions of the foreskin is that it covers the glans when flaccid, but still allows it to be exposed when erect during sex.  This is important because the glans is only meant to be stimulated during sex, and the foreskin allows it to be protected from excess stimulation the rest of the time. This allows the glans to have a high level of sensitivity and resulting sexual pleasure when needed, and protection when not needed or desired.

The consequence of circumcision is that it exposes the glans to the external environment at all times. Without the foreskin to protect the glans from air and friction when flaccid, it adapts by building a layer of keratin on the outside as an alternative means of protection. The issue with this is that the layer of keratin reduces sensitivity at all times, when both flaccid and erect. So, while it reduces irritation from contact with air and clothing when flaccid, it also significantly reduces sensitivity during sex when sensitivity is actually desired. As a result of this, many circumcised men experience types of sexual dysfunction. Common scenarios include: difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, difficulty or inability to orgasm from penetration or oral stimulation, or other sensitivity problems that are colloquially referred to as “death grip” syndrome.

Keratinization of the glans is one of the ways in which circumcision significantly reduces sexual pleasure. Luckily, keratinization is 100% reversible through foreskin restoration, and this can lead to large improvements, or even a resolution of many types of sexual dysfunction. When enough skin is grown to recover the glans, the layer of keratin will shed off in a process called dekeratinization.

How long does it take to dekeratinize the glans?

Once the glans remains in constant contact with skin protecting it, it usually takes a few weeks for the glans to return to its natural, normal state.

Are creams, serums, or chemical peels needed to remove the keratin?

No, the natural emollients from the skin and inner mucosa are enough to cause dekeratinization. Chemical removal is unnecessary and can cause harm or damage.

Can dekeratinization be done without restoring?

Yes, the glans can be dekeratinized without restoring. This can be done by wearing retainers that force the skin over the glans, or with artificial foreskins such as the manhood or senslip. Keep in mind though that if you decide to dekeratinize without restoring, you will be reliant on these products 24/7 to maintain the glans in its normal state. Ideally you should restore to have a natural covering at all times. Keratinization of the glans is also only one of the ways in which circumcision reduces sensitivity, and restoration can increase sensitivity beyond just dekeratinization.

At what point should one worry about dekeratinization?

My advice is to not worry about it at all, since it will naturally happen in time during restoration. When the skin is stretched over the glans with the aid of a device during the restoration process, the areas of the glans that are in contact with skin will begin to dekeratinize. You may not have full dekeratinization of the glans until restoration is stopped, and the glans is left alone covered by skin for a period of several weeks.

Image: Stefano Vigorelli, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons