Frequent washing of the hands can further dry out the skin of people with eczema. To help your doctor make the right call, here’s what you need to know about the differences among psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. Eczema is more often found in folds near the joints, such as the inside or crook of the elbows. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, an allergic condition that often appears in babies and children. What Is Psoriasis? If psoriasis is on your face, well-applied makeup can help return your self-confidence. Plus, they’re easily confused because they look so similar. Diapers and baby creams may irritate sensitive skin, causing extreme diaper rashes. Like psoriasis, eczema can occur anywhere on the body, but this rash is most commonly seen on the hands and feet, elbows and knees, chest and around the eyes. Eczema is very common in infants. American Academy of Dermatology. This condition causes overactive skin cells to produce too many new cells under the nails. American Academy of Family Physicians. Telling Eczema and Psoriasis Apart Notice when it occurs. Back and Neck Surgery (Except Spinal Fusion), http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/skin/disorders/176.printerview.html, http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/skin/disorders/199.printerview.html, http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/common_psoriasis.html, http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/skin_eczema.html, http://www.merriam-webster.com/medlineplus/dermatitis, http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Atopic_Dermatitis/atopic_dermatitis_ff.pdf, http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Atopic_Dermatitis/default.asp, http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Psoriasis/psoriasis_ff.asp, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/eczema.html, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000869.htm, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/rashes.html, http://www.psoriasis.org/netcommunity/learn_faqs, http://www.skincarephysicians.com/psoriasisnet/triggers.html, Psoriasis Making You Desperate? There can be overlap between eczema and psoriasis The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it’s been linked to genetics and environmental factors. How Is Each Treated. Some psoriasis patches may build up a very thick, white layer of dead cells before shedding scales. Treating Eczema vs. Psoriasis. Last reviewed: July 26, 2010, Frequently Asked Questions. Eczema. Typically, it takes about a month for skin cells to regenerate, but in people with psoriasis, this process happens every three to four days, according to the Cleveland Clinic. It can be triggered by an insect bite or contact with an allergen or chemical substance. This is likely because of increased moisture in these areas. Other widespread psoriasis may simply require standard treatment to partially heal or resolve. Make sure you haven’t missed any potential psoriasis treatments here. Affected areas often include larger, more solid patches of smoother skin than typical psoriasis. However, plaque psoriasis on the legs often appears in large, shapeless patches with thick red skin or thick white scales. With colder months approaching, as is the inevitable discomfort of itchy, dry skin. Due to exposure to soaps, animals, and other allergens, eczema is commonly found on the palms of the hands. There are six types of eczema, each with its own cause and typical age of onset. Plus, they’re easily confused because they look so similar. Learn common reasons why your treatment may not be working and what you can do…, If you have psoriasis, you may be wondering if the soap or shampoo you use will make a difference. Although some psoriasis may cover significant portions of the legs, other types may appear in isolated patches. These two skin problems have different causes and can appear in different stages of your life. People with frequent allergic contact dermatitis flare-ups may want to explore allergy testing. Eczema treatment depends on how severe it is. Atopic eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis), psoriasis and rosacea may all present with similar skin symptoms, this can often make it difficult to determine which skin condition you might actually have. In some cases, doctors may suggest over-the-counter creams. American Academy of Family Physicians. To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may talk with you about your medical history and symptoms. Gentle removal will prevent breaking the skin and causing bleeding. What is eczema? Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, Psoriasis vs. eczema in inconvenient places of the body, Here are some tips you can try to avoid psoriasis triggers, 5 Treatments to Help People with Severe Eczema, How a Pedicure Transformed My Relationship with My Psoriasis, Why Isn’t My Psoriasis Treatment Working? Rashes usually occur on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. This causes the skin to overreact to certain triggers, such as dyes, fabrics, soaps, animals, and other irritants. Eczema appears on the hands very commonly. Medical Reviewer: William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS. This includes the face, scalp, and neck. This is because the hands often come in contact with soaps, lotions, fabric, animals, and other allergens or irritants. Here’s a psoriasis patient advocate’s perspective on how to explain the reality of living with psoriasis to others. Whether it's psoriasis or eczema, your doctor can recommend ways to get relief for it. The dead cells build up into silvery-white scales. The condition may go away by age 2 or last through adulthood. If neither of these improve the psoriasis patches, many dermatologists may prescribe an oral, injectable, or intravenous medication. Doctors diagnose it by closely examining your skin, nails, and scalp. Eczema can occur in many inconvenient places — especially for infants. Contact dermatitis. While they are both skin conditions and sometimes look similar, they are caused by different things and are often treated differently. Nummular eczema causes round, coin-sized spots to appear on the skin. September 2009 (. Dermatitis is a very broad term that generally means “inflammation of the skin.” If your skin comes in contact with a specific irritating substance, you can develop contact dermatitis. Inverse psoriasis and other types of psoriasis may develop on the genitals, armpits, bottoms of the feet, and skin creases. Eczema. Psoriasis is a lifelong condition that causes thickened, red patches of skin and silvery-white scales. Scratching can cause the skin to ooze pus and create crusty and scabbed patches. Psoriasis typically occurs on the back of the elbows and front of the knees, while eczema occurs in the inside folds of joints and the neck,” Lebwohl says. There are a couple of factors that differentiate one condition from the other. Sometimes a rash can be due to an allergic reaction, for example, exposure to a … No single test can identify them. However, the patches of psoriasis can build up from dead skin cells to the point of scaling and peeling. Here’s what to keep in mind when dressing with psoriasis. If you have eczema, summer might not be your favorite season. Common types of eczema include atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis. Instead, sebo-psoriasis is an overlap between the two. https://dermcenterofacadiana.com/eczema-and-atopic-dermatitis-vs-psoriasis Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, may also be a long-term condition affecting the skin. The content on Healthgrades does not provide medical advice. It occurs because of a hypersensitivity reaction. Along with doing skin tests, this is one of the ways that pediatricians or doctors can … A lack of public understanding about psoriasis causes many people with this condition to feel isolated and ostracized. ECZEMA VS PSORIASIS – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects about 7.5 million Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. It is very common: a 2007 study found that 31.6 million Americans met general symptom criteria for eczema, and 17.8 million met the criteria for atopic dermatitis (AD), a type of eczema.. 249-255. Many people outgrow the hypersensitivity by childhood or early adulthood. In some cases, the eczema covers the entire area that comes into contact with a diaper. Examples include nickel or other metals and certain fragrances. Eczema occurs in folds of the skin. We are often asked about the differences between psoriasis vs eczema. Both are long-term conditions that require long-term treatments. U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Read on for tips on what ingredients to watch out…, Joni Kazantizis' personal story of pregnancy and being a mother of two while managing psoriasis. Here are some tips you can try to avoid psoriasis triggers. 06-2-20 - Blog, eczema, Psoriasis. This type of psoriasis (i.e., erythromdermic) can be life-threatening if not treated. Psoriasis affects people differently, so it helps to know how to judge the condition's severity. At my first visit to the nail salon, I felt nervous…, Psoriasis is a skin condition that can differ in type and severity. Last medically reviewed on November 7, 2018, Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition that causes the body to make new skin cells in days rather than weeks. If you’re self-conscious about your appearance because you have psoriasis, good news. Last reviewed/updated: October 2009, Psoriasis. Eczema on the hands can be difficult to treat because of the constant contact with water and other irritants. The dryness associated with eczema can also cause cracked skin from general movement. All rights reserved. Sunshine Can Ease Psoriasis But Not Necessarily Eczema. Eczema can be cleared by using topical treatments. Neurodermatitis is related to atopic dermatitis and usually occurs in people who have another form of eczema or psoriasis, which can further blur the distinction between psoriasis vs. eczema. Three common causes—psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis—are tricky to diagnose. Think about the skin surfaces that are folded together — that’s where you’ll see eczema. However, before you can figure out how to treat the condition, you must identify the cause. Clin Dermatol. By spreading the word that psoriasis isn’t contagious and that it’s a chronic autoimmune condition, you can help people with psoriasis feel better understood and more welcome in society. Eczema can occur in those places, but it most often inflames the skin on the back of the knees or the inside of the elbows. If these are not enough, many doctors will prescribe a light therapy treatment. Eczema can look like psoriasis and vice versa. Some people with eczema scratch these areas a lot, which can lead to bleeding and thick or leathery skin. The patches can be very itchy, causing further skin deterioration. Psoriasis can mimic other skin diseases. U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Psoriasis frequently occurs on the legs and knees. Many people don’t know the technical differences between psoriasis and eczema (atopic dermatitis). Sebborheic dermatitis can develop much earlier. (NPF, 2018) Like psoriasis, eczema is a condition involving immune dysregulation, however it isn’t absolutely clear as yet that there is an autoimmune component. Extensive, highly painful, burn-like psoriasis can be life-threatening. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Are you worried that your diet may be triggering flare-ups of your eczema? The different types of psoriasis have different appearances. Generally, it is not covered with scaly dead skin. 2007; vol. Although Psoriasis occurs mostly on the knees and elbows, it may also occur anywhere on the body. Eczema can also become very serious and cover much of the skin’s surface. Dermatitis. Usatine, R. and Riojas, M. Diagnosis and Management of Contact Dermatitis. Eczema frequently includes very dry patches of skin. Symptoms of psoriasis You don't have to continue itching and feeling uncomfortable. Children who have psoriasis tend to have mild itching. A thick patch of white scales is characteristic of psoriasis. But some topical, light-based, and systemic pharmaceutical treatments can put the condition into remission. Although many people have patches of psoriasis on the backs of their hands and knuckles, others have outbreaks on the palms. Itching can cause breaks in the skin that allow bleeding or infection. Psoriasis tends … Many things can trigger psoriasis, including stress, cold weather, skin damage, and certain medications. 3) Sebo-psoriasis. We break down the different CBD sources and how to find the right gummies for you. This is especially important for people who find that their symptoms come and go during flareups or other exposures to certain irritants. What Is Atopic Dermatitis?” National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institutes of Health. Most eczema can be cleared with topical treatment. Certain substances may trigger an eczema breakout, so it’s important to identify and avoid them. When it comes to CBD oils, there are many to choose from. November 2009. May 2009. Seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis are painful, irritating skin conditions that are not curable and can affect quality of life. Deciding to hide or reveal your psoriasis flares can be a challenge. Seborrheic Dermatitis vs. Psoriasis Scalp. It develops when your skin becomes inflamed from exposure to things like chemicals, acids, soaps, and detergents. As with Psoriasis, Dermatitis (Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, which can cause intense itching. Skin may appear red, inflamed, peeling, cracked, blistered, or pus-filled. When it comes to skin conditions, “rash” is a kind of catch-all term that is used to describe itchy outbreaks. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Intense peeling and dry skin on the hands can make even simple actions, such as washing hands or picking up a bag, very painful and uncomfortable. Now that you have the differences between eczema and psoriasis clearly in mind, it’s time to stir up the waters. This involves removing a small skin sample and viewing it under a microscope. Allergic contact dermatitis can occur if you develop a sensitivity or allergy to a substance. To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may talk with you about your medical history and symptoms. 3, pp. This requires immediate attention from a health professional. Rashes. “The distribution is different. Adults with eczema in sensitive areas may need to change laundry detergents, cleansers, and fabrics. You’ll continue to endure this uncomfortable reaction until the cause is discovered and you can avoid it. 535–546. Psoriasis causes itchiness and…, Eczema symptoms and effective therapies vary. Switching to soft cotton diapers or using a different cleanser may help ease eczema in the genital area for infants. Well tell you about some of the most important similarities and differences in the two conditions. For instance, plaque psoriasis may cover almost the entire surface of the body. These should be carefully treated to avoid introducing a bacterial or viral infection. Often you’ll develop a rash on your hands along with burning, itching, and pain. With treatment, psoriasis on the face and scalp often resolves, but it may recur. Privacy Policy | Advertising Policy | Cookie Policy | Privacy Preferences Center | Do Not Sell My Personal Information. August 1, 2010, vol. Psoriasis Treatment vs. Eczema Treatment There is some overlap in the treatments for psoriasis and eczema. Comparing psoriasis and eczema The condition isn’t contagious. Although psoriasis comes and goes over time, it’s a lifelong condition. Gudjonsson JE, Elder JT. With allergic contact dermatitis, a skin rash can appear on the area that touched the substance within 24 to 48 hours. Shaving with psoriasis is challenging and can cause additional skin irritation and possible infection. Stress and abrupt temperature changes can also cause eczema to appear. Eczema on the legs may often occur in body “creases,” such as the back of the knee or the front of the ankle. Hypersensitivity to the material of a diaper or the creams used in washing the area can aggravate skin. Common irritants include household cleansers, detergents, soaps, chlorine, and wool. The skin becomes inflamed and red, causing serious itching. National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriasis in skinfolds or the genital area will appear smooth and shiny, but may resemble eczema. Eczema tends to appear in the crooks of the knees and the elbows. There is no agreed-upon definition for sebo-psoriasis. Especially in the early stages of disease, eczema and psoriasis can resemble each other. Psoriasis is an … Eczema: Tips on How to Care for Your Skin. They often are located on the outside of the elbows and knees, but psoriasis commonly affects the scalp and nails, too. Understanding the differences between psoriasis and eczema can help you recognize and appropriately treat your condition. For instance, guttate psoriasis on the legs would appear in many separate, drop-like, small red psoriasis patches. These can make skin so fragile that it cracks very easily. She tells how she lives well with her chronic illness…. The amount of skin affected by eczema will depend on: Severe cracking, oozing, and bleeding in cases of severe eczema can become dangerous. Although psoriasis most commonly occurs on the knees and elbows, it may occur anywhere. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institutes of Health. Eczema is a combination of genetic and external factors, but the most common occurrence is usually a response to environmental or other external factors, say heat or exposure to products containing harsh chemicals. He or she may want to conduct skin examinations or multiple tests. In many cases, scalp psoriasis extends onto the forehead, ears, or neck. As with psoriasis, dermatitis can occur anywhere on the body and cause intense itching. It happens when the skin cells go through their life cycle more quickly than normal. Dermatitis and eczema are generic terms for inflammation of the skin and both are used to describe a number of skin conditions that consist of red, dry patches of skin and rashes. Widespread eczema also makes infection more likely because of the increased chance of broken skin. It can be difficult to treat, especially when hair gets in the way. Irritant contact dermatitis is the most widespread. As previously mentioned, psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that can be triggered by certain health issues (like rashes from rheumatoid arthritis), medications or even stress. Just as with psoriasis, eczema on the face can cause discomfort. Eczema usually shows up as very itchy patches that become red, swollen, and cracked from scratching. On the other hand, psoriasis can commonly be found on the elbow itself. How to tell the difference between psoriasis and eczema. Your doctor can usually tell whether you have scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis or both based on an examination of your skin, scalp and nails. Normally this condition tends to develop between 15 and 35 years old. Unlike psoriasis, eczema can become infected with bacteria or viruses. Irritant contact dermatitis can show up whether you’ve come in contact with the substance before or not. Most eczema can be cleared with topical treatment. At times, the condition can be so serious that it restricts activity. Although you can get either disease at any age, eczema affects children more than psoriasis does. Psoriasis Vs Eczema On The Face . Psoriasis. Some barrier creams may also be useful to protect skin from irritants and infections, allowing it to heal. Eczema vs. Psoriasis on the Hands. The classic appearance of spots of psoriasis is red bumps and plaques that have overlying scaling, which often is a shiny or silvery scale. Eczema and psoriasis affect people at … If youre not sure which condition you have, see your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. In others, peeling skin reveals broken skin or open blisters. Eczema vs. Psoriasis on the Elbows. Other cases of eczema may require antibiotic creams or prescription oral medications. Once the cause is found, treatment can start and bring welcome relief. Try one of these 11 great options. 3. There’s currently no cure for psoriasis. U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Third Party materials included herein protected under copyright law. The peeling of eczema may resemble that of a sunburn or a peeling blister or callus. A rash is a noticeable change in the feel and color of the skin. Eczema on the face can often be treated topically, but systemic medications may be necessary. At other times, people with eczema hardly notice their condition. Generally, it’s not covered with scaly dead skin. In other words, one bottle of prescription cream will not cure you of either psoriasis or atopic dermatitis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that results in the overproduction of skin cells. Like most skin conditions, psoriasis can become widespread and very irritating. 7,752,060 and 8,719,052. At times, large red patches may have no visible scales. In eczema, the itching can be intense. Severe eczema…, Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause skin irritation, oozing blisters, and itchy rashes. In some cases, the skin may peel without causing raw skin or open wounds. It is frequently thought to be a diagnosis for symptoms that do not fit into psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis completely. Last reviewed: May 6, 2010. Recognizing a patch of skin that’s inflamed, red, or peeling as one of these conditions will determine how you treat it. So, if a red, scaly rash pops up behind your knees, elbows, or another creased area, it’s probably eczema. While rashes can potentially represent a myriad of dermal ailments, two of the most common are eczema and psoriasis. Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a collection of conditions that cause red, irritated skin. You can employ a few easy tricks to camouflage the signs and make them less noticeable. Three common causes—psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis—are tricky to diagnose. He or she may want to conduct skin examinations or multiple tests. Psoriasis vs Eczema Spots When looking closely at the spots of psoriasis and eczema, they usually look somewhat different. Psoriasis can develop in very uncomfortable places. Now is the time to get your psoriasis or eczema under control. Commonly known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is "the itch that rashes," says Dr. Shi, meaning that an itching sensation often occurs first followed by a visible rash that develops after scratching.Eczema lesions are typically pink and scaly on pale skin tones, or a purple-to-brown color on darker skin tones, with accentuated skin lines. Your doctor may also perform a skin biopsy. Having an itchy, flaky scalp is a common problem for many people. 25, pp. Always consult a medical provider for diagnosis and treatment. Just as with psoriasis, people with eczema often experience off-and-on symptoms for many years. Atopic Dermatitis. If you have hidradenitis suppurativa and worry about body odor, here are a few simple strategies to help you manage this challenge and stay engaged with your life. No single test can identify them. Two that can sometimes appear so similar that it’s tough for doctors to tell the difference are psoriasis and eczema. When distinguishing between cases of eczema vs psoriasis, eczema is almost always very itchy, whereas psoriasis can sometimes be itchy, but not in all cases. Last reviewed/updated: July 2010, Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis. What causes psoriasis vs. eczema? Itching is the main symptom. Trying to get rid of a skin rash can be almost as troublesome as coping with one. Constant contact from clothing can cause significant bleeding, oozing, and infection. American Family Physician. Eczema commonly includes pus-filled blisters. Last updated: November 1, 2009. Dry and scaly skin woes can be due to a number of skin conditions. Unlike atopic dermatitis, psoriasis doesn’t usually appear before age 10. Psoriasis vs Eczema By: Lauren Fanta. Removal of large scales should not be forced. Close contact of irritants with skin and areas of skin rubbing together create a perfect environment for atopic dermatitis to thrive. Typically, dermatologists start treatment by prescribing topical corticosteroid creams. Both types are common causes of a red, itchy rash. Eczema is often also treated with a topical corticosteroid cream. There are many ways for a dermatologist to tell the difference between eczema and psoriasis, including what one sees on the skin, the amount of itch, and where the disease appears on the skin. Although both are considered inflammatory skin conditions, understanding the difference between psoriasis and eczema can help you understand different treatment options used to effectively manage each condition. Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. All Rights Reserved. 12 Possible Causes, The Best Soaps and Shampoos for Psoriasis, Choosing a CBD Oil: 10 Favorite Oils to Try. These medications are the final steps in most treatment plans. September 2009. Unfortunately, neither eczema nor psoriasis can be cured, but they can be controlled with medical and at-home care. It’s more commonly found in adults. American Academy of Dermatology, Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis. Psoriasis: Epidemiology. That being said, the most common form of eczema (atopic dermatitis) most commonly begins in childhood whereas psoriasis typically develops from ages 15 to 35. While psoriasis on your scalp can be itchy and uncomfortable, it’s treatable. As with psoriasis, dermatitis can occur anywhere on the body and cause intense itching. Psoriasis on the hands may also include nail psoriasis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institutes of Health. To confirm whether you have eczema, your doctor may ask about your family history of allergies and want you to have an allergy or blood test. But most people with psoriasis lead fulfilling, active lives. These areas may trap sweat or irritants from clothing and the air. Use of this website and any information contained herein is governed by the Healthgrades User Agreement. In extreme cases, inflammation can become so severe that it appears and feels like burns. Psoriatic patches can be itchy, sore, and even burn. We share some great options, plus provide tips to help you pick the right one for you. Severe eczema often needs many treatments to ease the awful, stinging itch and discomfort. There are two main types of contact dermatitis: irritant and allergic. © Copyright 2020 Healthgrades Operating Company, Inc. Patent US Nos. Know All Your Treatment Options, Not All Psoriasis Is the Same: Here’s Why, Making the Personal Decision to Show Your Psoriasis Flares, 3 Ways to Manage Body Odor with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Personality Traits of People With Psoriasis, 7 Crazy Comments About Psoriasis and How to Respond. Find out what kyphoscoliosis is, what causes this curvature of the back in two directions, and symptoms of this spinal condition. If you’re currently bothered by red, itchy, or inflamed skin, it’s all worth your time and effort. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Scalp plaques that are thicker than typical seborrheic dermatitis typically mark this condition. If eczema on the backs of the knees isn’t quickly or effectively treated, it can become very irritating and painful. U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. 82, No. This can look like a fungal infection that discolors the nails and even causes them to fall off. Like psoriasis, eczema can cause itchy, scaly lesions on the skin. Looking for the best CBD gummies? There are several types of psoriasis, and psoriasis is different for everyone. Accessed September 8, 2010, Psoriasis Triggers. It can also result in leathery skin…, Because of my psoriasis, getting a pedicure seemed like one of the scariest things in the world. Not all psoriasis patches appear dry or scaly. American Academy of Dermatology. See Psoriasis vs Eczema comparison table. 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