While there are a few similarities between Eczema & Psoriasis, they are definitely two different skin conditions. Here you can better understand how they're different so you know the best course of action to take.

Eczema VS Psoriasis: What's the Difference?

Looking for more information regarding Eczema vs Psoriasis? While the two skin conditions do share certain characteristics, they are not the same.

It’s important that you consult with your dermatologist to correctly identify the skin condition you’re experiencing.

In the meantime, we’re here to help you understand the differences of eczema and psoriasis.

The Definition of Eczema

Eczema is not a singular disease. There are different conditions that make up eczema, but you’ve likely heard of the most common one; atopic dermatitis.

This condition arises when your skin’s barrier is no longer able to function due to damage.

Therefore, you’re left with more sensitive skin which then leads to dryness, redness, itchiness and so on.

Eczema typically occurs in infants and young children. Many of those affected outgrow the skin condition while others may see improvement as they age.

The Definition of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that comes in different forms:

• inverse
• guttate
• pustular
• sebopsoriasis

Psoriasis is the chronic form of this skin condition and tends to run in families. This skin condition causes new skin cells to develop rapidly, causing old skin cells to build up.

This causes the thick, itchy patches or areas of skin adorned with silvery or white scales that you see. It can occur on different areas of your body including:

• lower back
• elbows
• scalp
• genitals
• knees
• and more

 

Signs & Symptoms of Eczema

If you have Atopic dermatitis you’re going to experience dry, red and itchy skin. Every person’s symptoms will vary but the most common include:

• thick, cracked and/or scaly skin
• dry skin
• small, raised bumps
• itchy skin
• patches of red to brownish-gray; often in certain spots - eyelids, wrists, feet, hands, upper chest, ankles, neck, face, scalp and more

Oftentimes symptoms of Eczema will flare when your skin becomes irritated. This could be from a soap you used, whether in the shower or to wash your laundry.

Who doesn’t enjoy soap that smells wonderful?! Unfortunately, the wonderful scent isn’t often worth it when you’re left with dry, itchy skin for days after.

Signs & Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is different than eczema in appearance in that your skin will have dry patches that are thick and slightly raised.

In addition, the patches will feature a scaly, white/silver coating that, you guessed it, is itchy.

There are different kinds of psoriasis with the most common being plaque psoriasis.

You’ll find these patches in a variety of places but typically on the lower back, elbows, scalp or knees.

While scratching an itch comes naturally to most, if you have plaque psoriasis scratching is something you never want to do.

Eczema Treatment Options

If you suffer from Eczema the good news is that you have many treatment options. However, it’s also important to learn and understand the triggers of your eczema so you can help reduce flare-ups and avoid irritating your skin.

OTC Products for Eczema​

There are quite a few products you can find that don’t require a prescription, but not every product works for every eczema sufferer. These products or medications may also target relief in one way. For example, some might help moisturize the skin while others help with itching or eliminating redness. It’s important to know what you want the eczema treatment to do in order to get the results you desire.

Phototherapy

This type of eczema treatment uses a machine to emit narrowband UVB light that helps reduce inflammation and itching. In addition it helps increase your skin’s bacteria-fighting systems and boosts its vitamin D production.

Bathing

People with certain skin conditions, like eczema, may find it hard to bathe on a regular basis without drying out the skin. The best way to overcome this is by using products that cleanse and nourish your skin. Add a little moisture boost with oatmeal in your bath. Or use our Honey Eczema Soap bar to gently cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize your eczema-prone skin. 

Moisturize

Your skin is dry so it’s important that you keep it moisturized. Using any ordinary moisturizer or lotion likely won’t give you the results you want. In fact, using any ordinary product will likely worsen your eczema. Avoid products with perfumes and ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. Look for moisturizers crafted specifically for people with eczema.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

While, like eczema, you’ll find a variety of treatment options for psoriasis, not every treatment works for every person. Talking with your doctor can help you figure out the best treatment plan that will give you the best results.

OTC Products for Psoriasis

You can find different products at your local store to help treat your psoriasis. Two main ingredients commonly used are salicylic acid and coal tar. Salicylic acid helps lift the scales, softening and removing them. It can also cause serious irritation if you leave it on your skin too long.

Coal tar is one of the more common treatments for psoriasis as it helps slow your fast-growing skin cells and lessens inflammation, itching and scaling. Unfortunately, it also has some downsides. It can irritate, dry or redden your skin. So be sure to test it before using it to treat your psoriasis.

When looking at other OTC treatments look for those with beneficial ingredients including: Aloe Vera, Zinc Phyrithione, Capsaicin, & Jojoba.

Moisturize

Like with eczema, you want to keep your skin moisturized at all times if you have psoriasis. Look for moisturizers that are free of fragrance, use them immediately after showering and following hand washing.

Bathing

Keep your baths warm and not too hot to prevent drying out your skin. Add a soothing ointment to your bath like oilated oatmeal or Epsom salts. Soak in this for 10-15 minutes and of course, don’t forget to moisturize once you get out!

Anti-Itch Products

If you suffer from serious itchiness due to your psoriasis you’ll find many ingredients the FDA has approved for helping with itchy skin:

• Hydrocortisone
• Calamine
• Benzocaine
• Menthol
• Camphor

However, should you use an anti-itch treatment pay attention to the end results; some of these ingredients can further irritate your skin and increase dryness.

Managing Your Eczema & Psoriasis

It can be more trial and error than anything when trying to find the right products to help you manage your psoriasis or eczema. Just remember, when looking for any product that you apply to your skin, look at the ingredients and avoid any that can cause irritation.

Try Our Eczema Soap Bar

If you are on a quest to find a great natural soap that you can use regularly, regardless if you have Eczema or Psoriasis, or to help improve dehydrated skin, we encourage you to try our Honey Eczema Soap bar. It contains natural ingredients and is crafted to gently exfoliate and moisturize, leaving your skin clean without stripping away natural oil.