Written by Sheza Kamran
Eczema and psoriasis can be challenging to distinguish due to their similar symptoms. However, understanding their key differences, appearances, triggers, and treatment can help you identify each condition more accurately.
In this article, we will explore the key differences between eczema and psoriasis, their common triggers, when they develop, and treatment options.
If you suspect you have symptoms of either condition, it's essential to consult a dermatologist or your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Key Differences
● Eczema causes an intense, persistent itch that can lead to bleeding from excessive
scratching.
● Psoriasis can also cause itching but often feels more like a burning sensation.
Appearance
● Eczema causes red, inflamed skin. It may appear scaly, oozing, or crusty, with rough,
leathery patches that sometimes look darker. Swelling is also common.
● Psoriasis results in red patches with a silvery, scaly surface. These patches are usually
raised and the skin is thicker and more inflamed compared to eczema.
Image from eczema.org.au
Triggers
Eczema can be triggered by substances such as:
● Soaps
● Detergents
● Disinfectants
Eczema can also be triggered by:
● Dust
● Pets
● Pollen
Psoriasis shares some triggers with eczema, such as stress and infections. Additional causes
include:
● Vaccinations
● Sunburn; Wear sunscreen or take additional measures
● Skin injuries like scratches
When They Develop
● Eczema usually begins in infancy or early childhood. Symptoms often improve or
become less severe as a person ages.
● Psoriasis commonly appears between ages 15 and 35, though it can occur at any age.
It's rare for babies to develop psoriasis.
Treatment
Treating eczema varies based on its severity. For mild to moderate eczema:
● Topical Corticosteroids: These are applied to the skin to help control and reduce
inflammation.
● Emollients: Use emollient moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated. These moisturizers
have an oil or cream base, which is more effective at sealing in moisture than
water-based lotions, which can sometimes dry the skin out further.
● Prescribed medication
Psoriasis treatment can be systemic, affecting the entire body, or topical, applied directly to the skin. For mild cases, management often includes:
● Topical Corticosteroids: These help reduce inflammation and are applied directly to the
affected areas.
● Emollients: These moisturizers, with an oil or cream base, keep the skin hydrated and
help alleviate dryness and scaling
● Prescribed medication
Understanding these distinctions can help in managing and treating each condition effectively. If
you're unsure or concerned about your symptoms, consulting a dermatologist can provide a
more accurate diagnosis and better treatment plan.
Citations
Robinson, K. M. (n.d.). Psoriasis vs. eczema: How to tell the difference. WebMD.
Disclaimer: Everything posted on our website and Instagram is intended for basic educational purposes only. If you suspect you have symptoms of any condition, it is essential to consult a dermatologist or your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Our content is not a substitute for professional medical care.
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