Eczema tends to appear in the crooks of the knees and the elbows. But both have significant differences as well and we will discuss it here in terms of different parameters. Examples include tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. Both conditions can cause red, itchy skin but have different causes and different treatments. These two skin problems have different causes and can appear in different stages of your life. Eczema is less likely to cause scaling and is more likely to be accompanied by fluids leaking through the skin. With psoriasis – the skin is also itchy, but it also feels like it’s been stung or burnt; almost as though it’s on fire. As a result, it’s important to understand the differences. While it won’t necessarily heal psoriasis, it can reduce the symptoms. If a person has both skin conditions, they may have to apply different treatments to each. Eczema often appears on parts of your body that bend, like your inner elbow or behind your knees. Eczema and psoriasis are two common types of skin disorder, exhibits different symptoms. These include: Like eczema, psoriasis can be treated with light therapy, which is also known as phototherapy. For more information from our Medical co-author, including how to work out the cause of your eczema or psoriasis, read on. Psoriasis is an … This treatment involves controlled exposure to ultraviolet light, which slows down skin cell turnover and reduces inflammation. Eczema vs. Psoriasis – Below the Surface. You can have it on your neck, wrists, and ankles. A dermatologist can point out the differences," says Dr. Krishnamurthy. If you have it, you may also have diabetes, heart disease, or depression. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Examples of other skin conditions that cause similar symptoms include: When a person has a skin condition of an unknown cause, they should see their physician to try and find out more about the condition’s potential cause. Eczema and psoriasis both cause itchy, red patches, but the 2 conditions can look quite different. We examine the symptoms, treatment options, and management tips for this…. In this rare form, also called exfoliative psoriasis, the affected patches may look like severe burns and can cover widespread areas of the body. All rights reserved. While it’s rare that a person will have both eczema and psoriasis, it is possible. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It can get so bad that you scratch enough to make your skin bleed. What causes psoriasis vs. eczema? However, it is crucial to understand the differences between psoriasis and eczema They work by reducing inflammation and itching. Psoriasis vs Eczema. Psoriasis: Should You Avoid Certain Foods? Symptoms of psoriasis Last medically reviewed on February 12, 2017. If youre not sure which condition you have, see your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. This is due to the fact that their symptoms may seem the same on the surface. Certain factors are known to trigger psoriasis episodes or worsen existing psoriasis. They may be silvery and scaly -- and raised. We want to state that Our comments, suggestions, blogs post, and articles are not intended to take the place of medical advice or medical professionals. Examples include: Keeping the skin clean and moisturized while avoiding harsh soaps and very hot water can relieve psoriasis discomfort and reduce any itching. Or you're heading out the door for a day of fun in the sun. All rights reserved. However, there are certain areas where you’re more prone to see psoriasis and certain areas you’re more likely to see eczema developing. Eczema usually starts in babies or young children. Eczema affects the ability of the skin to protect against outside irritants and allergens. Here’s what we know… 1. Psoriasis symptoms appear anywhere on the body, even the scalp, fingernails and toenails. When this is the case, a person may need to apply a prescription topical antibiotic cream or take an antibiotic. Whether it's psoriasis or eczema, your doctor can recommend ways to get relief for it. You may have someone in your family who has it or has asthma or hay fever. No cure exists for eczema, and the condition can be long-lasting. Psoriasis and Eczema are two conditions that confuse many people as the results are pretty similar. Psoriasis shares some of these triggers, like stress and infection. These patches may weep, or seep a clear fluid, resulting in a crust. But you can get it at other ages too. Learn more. In mouse models of psoriasis, researchers found that oral administration of a synthetic vanilla extract called vanillin reduced skin inflammation. Understanding psoriasis and eczema. Exposure to dust from furnishings can also contribute to eczema. Psoriasis treatment is either systemic, which means it affects your entire body, or topical, which goes on your skin. What are the different types of psoriasis? Psoriasis is linked to other serious health conditions. It can be easy to confuse eczema and psoriasis since the symptoms often look similar, but one difference between eczema and psoriasis is the locations where they most often occur. Psoriasis vs Eczema – quick look. People with plaque psoriasis typically have sharply demarcated, raised, itchy, painful red plaques covered with silvery scales. If your disease is limited, or mild, you may be able to control it with topical corticosteroids and emollients. Psoriasis Psoriasis vs eczema: Here's how you can differentiate "Eczema and psoriasis look very similar with red, itchy, scaly rashes but they are fundamentally different. Psoriasis and Depression: What's the Link? These two drugs should be used with caution as they carry a warning about a possible risk of cancer. Psoriasis, on the other hand, usually shows up between ages 15 and 35. 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