Category Archives: Dermatology

What is the difference between Psoriasis and Eczema?

If you have red, inflamed, dry, and itchy skin, you may have a skin condition comparable to eczema or psoriasis. But how would you tell them apart? While the symptoms of each of these skin illnesses may appear similar, there are a few key differences.

Psoriasis is a persistent autoimmune skin illness that produces a fast buildup of skin cells on the skin’s surface, resulting in scaling. It produces skin inflammation and redness, and the red spots may crack and bleed. Eczema, on the other hand, is a skin disorder characterised by redness and irritation. It is most frequent in children, but it can occur at any age.This skin ailment is chronic, which means it will last for a long period and can flare up at any time.

Today, you’ll learn more about these two skin problems, including their similarities and distinctions, as well as the best ways to treat them.

A thick patch of white scales distinguishes psoriasis. It is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cell overgrowth. The dead cells generate silvery-white flakes when they clump together. The skin becomes inflamed and red, causing excruciating itching. Some topical, light-based, and systemic pharmacological treatments can help to alleviate the illness.

It also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin disorder that lasts for a long time. It is caused by a hypersensitive reaction, and newborns are especially susceptible to it. The skin may get red, irritated, peel, crack, blister, or become pus-filled. Like psoriasis, eczema can arise anywhere on the body and cause severe irritation.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis: Who is affected?

Eczema

Healthy skin, in essence, retains moisture while also producing a protective barrier against allergens, allergies, and pathogens. In the case of eczema, this protective layer of the skin is weakened due to a gene variant that inhibits your skin’s capacity to protect itself. As a result, external environmental variables might have an impact on your skin and cause eczema. Food allergies can also contribute to the development of eczema in youngsters.

Psoriasis

Although the precise cause of Psoriasis is uncertain, the condition can be related to two broad characteristics. First, think about your immune system. When your white blood cells, which are supposed to fight bacteria and diseases, erroneously attack your skin cells, the development of skin cells accelerates. It can lead to Psoriasis.

Second, your ancestors’ genes, often known as heredity. Some people inherit certain genes that make them more prone to Psoriasis. So, if you have a close relative who has or has had Psoriasis, you have a good probability of developing it as well.

Eczema vs Psoriasis: What causes them

Eczema can be caused by damage to your skin’s protective layer. A gene variant can weaken your skin’s protective barrier, allowing environmental factors like allergies, irritants, and bacteria to access the skin’s surface. It causes various eczema signs and symptoms, making it uncomfortable. Food allergies may also have a role in the development of eczema in youngsters.

While the exact origins of psoriasis are unknown, two things can contribute to this skin condition: the immune system and heredity. In the former, white blood cells attack your skin cells, resulting in increased skin production and psoriasis.In the latter case, if a member of your close family has psoriasis or has had it in the past, your vulnerability increases.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis: How is each treated?

Eczema Treatment

The severity of the condition determines eczema treatment. In mild to severe cases, you will use a topical corticosteroid and an emollient on your skin to manage inflammation. This moisturizer has an oil or cream base rather than a water base, which may cause your skin to become drier.

If your eczema is moderate to severe, you may need to take an immune-suppressing medicine. If nothing else helps, your doctor may recommend a biological medication. You could also attempt UV light therapy (commonly known as phototherapy).

Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriasis treatment can be systemic, meaning it affects the entire body, or topical, meaning it is applied to the skin. If your illness is restricted or mild, you may be able to treat it using topical corticosteroids and emollients. Light treatment combined with a biological medication is an option for more severe patients.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis: At what age do they start?

Eczema usually appears in infants or young children. As a youngster grows older, his or her symptoms usually improve. Adults are less prone to contract it, although it is still possible. This is frequently caused by another ailment, such as thyroid disease, hormone changes, or stress.

Psoriasis, on the other hand, usually occurs between the ages of 15 and 35. It is, nevertheless, possible to get it at any age. It is unusual to find it in a baby.

Eczema vs Psoriasis: Where they show up

Eczema is most commonly found in bendable regions of your body, such as your inner elbow or behind your knees. It can form on your neck, wrists, and ankles. It can get on the chin, cheeks, scalp, chest, back, limbs, and legs of a newborn.

Psoriasis can manifest itself on the elbows, knees, scalp, or face. It can appear on your lower back, hands, and even the soles of your feet.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis on the Face, Head & Scalp

Eczema on the Face, Head & Scalp

Eczema on the face, head, and scalp can be very painful. The patches can be highly irritating, resulting in further skin damage. Itching can lead to skin breakdowns, which might result in bleeding or infection. As a result of general movement, eczema-related dryness might result in cracked skin. Eczema is characterised by pus-filled blisters. Scratching can cause pus to leak from the skin, causing crusty and scabbed regions. Topically treating eczema on the face and scalp is possible, however, systemic drugs may be required.

Psoriasis on the Face, Head & Scalp

Psoriasis is most commonly found on the knees and elbows, but it can appear elsewhere. The skin on the face, scalp, head, and neck are all included. Treatment usually clears it up, but it can return. Psoriasis on the scalp frequently extends to the forehead, ears, or neck. It can be challenging to cure, especially if your hair is in the way.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis on the Hands and Palms

Eczema on the Hands and Palms

Eczema on the hands and palms is a very common skin ailment. Because the hands come into contact with soaps, lotions, fabrics, animals, and other allergens or irritants regularly. Handwashing frequently might aggravate the dryness of eczema patients’ skin. Eczema on the hands can be difficult to treat due to regular contact with water and other irritants.

Psoriasis on the Hands and Palms

Some people have psoriasis on the backs of their hands and knuckles, while others have eruptions on their palms. Because of the extreme peeling and dry skin on the hands, even simple movements like washing hands or picking up a bag can be painful and uncomfortable.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis on the Legs

Eczema on the Legs

Eczema on the legs is commonly observed in body wrinkles. It usually affects the back of the knee or the surface of the ankle. Sweat or irritants from clothing and the surroundings may gather in these places. Close contact with irritants and skin rubbing together promotes the growth of eczema.

Psoriasis on the Legs

Psoriasis is most frequently present on the legs and knees. Some varieties of psoriasis cover extensive portions of the legs, while others show in isolated patches.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis on other Body Parts

Eczema on other Body Parts

Eczema can manifest itself in a variety of awkward locations, particularly in infants. Diapers and infant creams can irritate sensitive skin and cause severe diaper rashes. In certain circumstances, eczema can cover the entire area that comes into touch with a diaper.

Adults with eczema in sensitive regions may need to change their laundry detergents, cleaners, and materials.

Psoriasis On Other Body Parts

Psoriasis can manifest itself in the most inconvenient areas. In affected areas, larger, more substantial patches of smoother skin are more common than in usual psoriasis. The increasing moisture in these locations is most likely to blame.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis: The Differences in appearances

Eczema

Eczema causes your skin to turn red and swollen. It could be scaly, oozy, or crusty in texture. You might notice rough, leathery patches that are sometimes dark. It might also cause swelling.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis can also cause red spots to emerge. They might be silvery and scaly, although they can also appear elevated. If you examine the skin closely, you will see that it is thicker and more irritated than in eczema.

Eczema And Psoriasis: Similarities

In terms of similarities, both disorders can cause red, itchy skin and other symptoms that are comparable. However, the reasons remain distinct and necessitate distinct therapies. As a result, understanding the distinctions is crucial.

Psoriasis is a disorder in which the immune system causes skin cells to develop faster than they should. Dead skin cells gather on the skin rather than dropping off. Eczema can be caused by several reasons. These include environmental variables, bacterial exposure, allergies, and family history.

Eczema Vs Psoriasis: FAQs

Since both these skin conditions have similar signs and symptoms, the ambiguity and questions surrounding them can be plenty. So, here is an answer to your most commonly asked questions.

Q1. Are eczema and psoriasis the same thing?

Eczema and psoriasis have similar symptoms and appearances. However, the underlying differences chalk out the division between the two. The causes of eczema include environmental factors, family history, and allergens, among others. Psoriasis occurs due to a damaged immune system that accelerates the build-up of skin cells.

Q2. Are eczema and psoriasis contagious?

Neither eczema nor psoriasis is contagious. However, you can develop either of these skin conditions due to family history or genetics. Both can cause patches of red, raised, itchy skin and can appear in the same places of the body.

Q3. Is eczema and psoriasis hereditary?

While heredity isn’t the only cause, eczema can occur due to family history or genetics. Psoriasis, on the other hand, appears due to the accelerated build-up of skin cells. It is related to the immune system.

Q4. Are eczema and psoriasis autoimmune?

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is caused primarily by an allergic reaction, whereas psoriasis is an autoimmune disease.

Q5. Can eczema or psoriasis cause hair loss?

Hair loss can occur as a result of scalp psoriasis, but it is only temporary. Scratching your head may help relieve itching caused by scaling. Your hair may fall out as a result of this.

Eczema causes a rash to break out, resulting in itching. Excessive scratching can damage your hair follicles, resulting in temporary hair loss.

Summary

Psoriasis is a chronic illness that appears and resolves over time. Eczema patients may experience sporadic symptoms for many years. Eczema can be so severe that it restricts activity. Eczema sufferers are sometimes ignorant of their disease. Understanding the differences between psoriasis and eczema might help you identify and treat your illness.

ISMC provides treatment and consultation for all of your skin and hair problems with industry professionals. If you choose a certain type of therapy, you will be in good hands thanks to the most up-to-date technologies and equipment. Even when it comes to eczema and psoriasis treatment, you will receive efficient solutions that address all your concerns. Therefore, if you choose to opt for it, give us a call at <Number> or fill up our online form on the website.