Doctor’s Note: Psoriasis vs Eczema - How to Tell!
As dermatologists, we see many patients with skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema. While both can cause skin irritation and discomfort, they are different conditions with unique symptoms and causes. Understanding these differences can help you manage your symptoms and choose the right treatment.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition that causes the skin to become red, inflamed, and covered with thick, silvery scales. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid skin cell growth. This can result in patches of skin that are itchy, painful, and sometimes bleed.
Common symptoms of psoriasis include:
Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching or burning sensations
Thickened or pitted nails
Swollen and stiff joints (in cases of psoriatic arthritis)
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood. However, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Triggers can include:
Stress
Infections (such as strep throat)
Injuries to the skin (like cuts or sunburn)
Certain medications (such as lithium or beta-blockers)
What is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often begins in childhood but can occur at any age. Eczema is not contagious, but it can be uncomfortable and lead to significant skin irritation.
Common symptoms of eczema include:
Dry, sensitive skin
Intense itching, which can be worse at night
Red, inflamed patches of skin
Scaly or leathery skin
Oozing or crusting in severe cases
The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve genetic factors and the immune system. Triggers for eczema can include:
Allergens (such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites)
Irritants (like soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics)
Weather changes (especially dry or cold conditions)
Stress
Psoriasis vs Eczema Summary
Psoriasis and eczema are both long-lasting skin problems, but they have different features. Both can cause discomfort and make the skin inflamed, but they look different, show up in different areas of the body, and have different causes. Because of these differences, it is important to get the right diagnosis to treat them effectively.
Eczema
Location: Front of Neck, Inner Arm Creases, Back of Knees, Hands, Hands, Feet
Symptoms: VERY itchy
Appearance: Less well-defined (it's hard to see exactly where the rash starts/stops)
Cause: Genetic and environmental factors
Age: More common in children
Note: Often improves with age
Psoriasis
Location: Scalp, Back of Neck, Elbows, Belly Button, Lower Back/Upper Butt, Front of Knees
Symptoms: Somewhat itchy
Appearance: Well-defined (you can clearly see where the rash starts/stops). Thick, white scale.
Cause: Autoimmune
Age: More common in adults
Note: May involve nails and joints