I've been dealing with a mild itch around my anus, so I put some Dettol on it. Now it's a bit swollen and there's this weird sticky feeling that won't go away, even after I clean it with water. There's no pain, though. Could Dettol have caused this, or is it just something from the itch itself? What can I do to get rid of that sticky sensation?

Dr Ranjith Darla

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 3+ Yrs

Consult Now

Discontinue using Dettol, as it can be too harsh for anal skin, and instead, try the following to alleviate the sticky feeling and swelling: clean the area gently with warm water; apply a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soap or a mild cleanser specifically designed for anal care; pat dry, avoiding rubbing or scratching; apply a thin layer of a soothing cream or ointment, such as hydrocortisone or aloe vera gel; and consider taking an oral antihistamine or applying a topical antihistamine cream to reduce itching and inflammation.

Answered 25/07/2025