Eczema and Psoriasis: What’s the Difference?

Eczema and psoriasis are similar skin conditions that can last a lifetime. . They both create skin rashes that are red, dry, and scaly. Psoriasis and eczema have different causes, despite having comparable signs and symptoms. They can also be treated in a variety of ways.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, and thick. Eczema is a persistent skin ailment that causes rashes that are red, itchy, and dry.

While the illnesses have similar symptoms, they have different origins and treatments.

weMED Clinics - Eczema-and-Psoriasis-Treatment

Looking to get in control of your Skin in Houston, TX? Call us today | (713) 572-3888

How Do Eczema and Psoriasis Feel Differently?

Eczema causes a lot of itching. It can get so severe to where you scratch so much that your skin begins to bleed.

Psoriasis can be equally as irritating, but there’s something more going on.It’s possible that your skin will sting or burn. It’s been described as feeling like you’re being bitten by fire ants by some people.

What are the causes of psoriasis and Eczema?

Psoriasis is produced by an overactive immune system that accelerates the proliferation of skin cells. Although it’s classified as an autoimmune disorder, doctors and researchers aren’t clear about what causes the immune system to malfunction. Psoriasis patients’ skin cells shed at a far faster pace than the ordinary person’s, and these skin cells stack up on the skin’s surface, causing psoriasis plaques.

Eczema is generated by events in the body that create inflammation. The immune system reacts when the body is exposed to a trigger, either internally or externally, and the skin may become uncomfortable, dry, itchy, or red. Cold weather, dietary allergies, odors, stress, and dry skin can all be eczema triggers.

Areas where Psoriasis and Eczema are located

Both psoriasis and eczema produce skin rashes, however, they appear in different regions of the body.

Atopic dermatitis is another name for eczema. The crooks of the elbows and the backs of the knees (also known as Flexural surfaces) are the most common locations for a flare up. Psoriasis is more common on the body’s extensor surfaces, like your forearms,elbows, as well as the fronts of the knees and shins. The scalp, face, ears, neck, navel, arm, legs, feet, hands, ankles, and lower back can all be affected by psoriasis as well. Eczema can also affect these areas, but not to the same extent as psoriasis.

Triggers in the Environment

Majority of health problems have several causes, and eczema and psoriasis are no different. Genetics and environmental factors, for example, appear to have a role in both disorders.

Scientists are still trying to figure out how heredity plays a role in the development of psoriasis and eczema. They are much more aware of the factors in a person’s environment that can trigger or exacerbate symptoms. For example, stress and extreme hot or cold weather can trigger both disorders.

Conditions They’re Involved With

Eczema is often associated with dry, sensitive skin, as well as asthma or hay fever.
It is very possible someone in your family could have it.
Psoriasis has been linked to a number of major health problems. If you suffer from psoriasis, you may also have diabetes, heart problems, or depression.

Diagnosis

To figure out what’s causing your symptoms, your doctor will examine your skin and speak with you about your health. They may also inquire about any illnesses that run in your family.

Your doctor may also examine a small sample of your skin under a microscope (biopsy).

Psoriasis

An outbreak of psoriasis is much easier to diagnose than an eczema outbreak.. A doctor or dermatologist will inspect the skin to see if the rash appears to be psoriasis, and it is usually diagnosed based on the look of scaly, silver-colored skin. In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be needed to diagnose. Guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis are the five kinds of psoriasis that can be diagnosed.

Eczema

Is characterized by red, itchy skin that can be self-diagnosed. Visiting a dermatological clinic to determine the type of eczema you have and what might be causing it can be beneficial. Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, neurodermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, stasis dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and nummular eczema are the seven kinds of eczema.

Treatment

The therapy for eczema and psoriasis is the same: working to reduce inflammation and get rid of symptoms.

Some treatments are effective for both disorders, including:

  • Topical corticosteroids 
  • Antihistamines  that are used orally (to relieve itching)
  • Keeping a safe distance from potential triggers
  • Moisturizers with a lot of emollients

Looking to get in control of your Skin in Houston, TX? Call us today | (713) 572-3888

Our Solution

We will listen to you and your healthcare professionals to find your best solutions.

 The Five Pillars of Health

Dr. You has determined that 90% of skin or allergy conditions are associated with digestive dysfunction.

Drawing upon our extensive experience and comprehensive diagnostic testing, we will treat you with a tailor-made, custom wellness plan which is based on The Five Pillars of Health. We will heal your pinpoint what your skin needs to heal. Through a holistic approach of reducing stress, boosting your immune system, decreasing inflammation, we will correct the malabsorption of nutrients in your body. We will also alleviate your symptoms and detoxify your skin through the application of acupuncture.

Your Wellness

After our diagnostic testing and following your customized wellness plan, you should experience some relief within one to two months.

You will:

  • Lessen itching and discomfort
  • Reduce the size of the affected area
  • Reduce stress and have more energy

Our weMED East-West Medicine team may help you identify and address the problem. If you want to improve your health fast, then call

(713) 572-3888 and book an appointment today! 

Dr. Bing You

Dr. Bing You, NCCAOM Diplomate; Associate Professor, ACAOM; first Chinese medicine doctor with St. Luke's admitting privileges

Integrative & Functional Medicine (Founder)

Founder of weMED Wellness Center (2006), trained at Chengdu University of TCM, combines Eastern-Western approaches.

Acupuncture herbology pain management chronic conditions cancer support men's health Tai Chi

LinkedIn: View profile →

BY CG +3

Talk to an integrative physician

First appointment within 48 hours. Telehealth or in person at any of our 3 Houston-area locations.

Book appointment

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Request a consultation with weMED Clinics. Fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly.

Your care is guided by a team of integrative physicians at weMED Clinics — combining conventional medicine, functional medicine, and acupuncture-based East-West protocols to address the root cause, not just the symptom.
Fill out the form below to request a consultation
Telemedicine With Services
Opt-In

Our Locations

Three weMED clinics serving the Greater Houston area. Choose the one closest to you.

Central Location

4126 Southwest Fwy # 1130, Houston, TX 77027

(281) 784-9046

Office Hours

  • Mon – Thu9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Fri8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Sat9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • SunClosed

The Woodlands

3115 College Park, Suite 106, The Woodlands, TX 77384

(832) 346-8429

Office Hours

  • Mon – Fri10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sat9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • SunClosed

Cypress

27200 Highway 290, Suite 200, Cypress, TX 77433

(346) 545-5775

Office Hours

  • Mon – Thu9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Fri – Sat9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • SunClosed