You’re not alone if you’re wondering what the difference is between eczema and psoriasis. It’s a question we’re asked all the time.

The truth is, these two skin conditions are often confused because they have very similar symptoms, including redness, itchiness, and flakiness of the skin. As both a psoriasis and eczema sufferer in the past, Hanna knows the frustration of dealing with either one of these conditions. 

The good news is it doesn’t have to be that way. Through dietary and lifestyle changes Hanna found a way to heal her  skin completely. Her best-selling book, Radiant, shares her methods and knowledge on healing skin from within through diet, and offers advice and guidance to help you on your personal skin-healing journey too.

It’s really important to have a clear understanding of which skin ailment you have. For example, though eczema and psoriasis are alike in many aspects, there are different ways of managing each one.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, and inflamed. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, which usually starts in childhood. Genetics plays a role in eczema, as does exposure to certain environmental triggers like pollen, pet hair, smoke and, in many cases, dairy consumption

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis causes the skin to become inflamed and irritated. This autoimmune disease can lead to painful plaques appearing on any part of the skin and is the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking healthy skin cells. Like eczema, genetics plays a role in who gets psoriasis, as do triggers such as stress, infection, or certain medications.

The differences

Here are some key ways to tell psoriasis and eczema apart….

Problem areas

Eczema is usually found on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet.

Psoriasis can also appear on these areas but is more likely to show up on the scalp, lower back,

knees, and ankles. It’s important to note that both skin conditions can manifest themselves throughout the body. If in doubt, please email us at hello@hannasilltioe.com and we will happily answer your questions.

Timing

Eczema usually starts in childhood, while psoriasis has a tendency to develop later in adolescence. Your age isn’t a definite factor as either condition can develop at any time. However, it’s simply more likely that you’ll start to see symptoms of eczema during your younger years.

Scaling

Eczema can cause the skin to become dry, red, and itchy. The skin may also crack and bleed. With psoriasis, you’ll also see these symptoms. In addition, psoriasis causes the skin to form scales; thick, crusty patches that may be silver or white in colour. Eczema doesn’t typically cause these scales to form. For topical treatment of any irritation, we highly recommend our Skin Saviour Balm. Expertly formulated to soothe and clam, this emollient style cream can bring welcome relief to sore skin.

Symptoms

The symptoms of eczema and psoriasis can vary depending on the person. In general, both conditions cause the skin to become dry, itchy and inflamed. However, eczema is more likely to cause the skin to crack and bleed, while psoriasis is more likely to cause the formation of scales. 

Duration

Eczema symptoms may come and go. They may worsen at certain times such as during a cold spell, and then improve or even disappear during other times. On the other hand, Psoriasis symptoms are more likely to be constant unless significant dietary changes are implemented

Managing symptoms

There are natural ways to manage both skin conditions, and these include taking probiotics and daily moisturising the skin. Probiotics, such as our multi-strain biotic, are crucial for many things - including skin health and immunity. In addition, improving and replenishing your gut bacteria can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, including the skin. Hanna’s best-selling book ‘Radiant’ goes into the importance of gut health and dietary and lifestyle changes.

Natural emollient-type moisturisers can be really beneficial for eczema or psoriasis, as they can help to soothe and protect the skin without irritating it. Be careful to choose one without petrol-based chemicals. Our skin saviour balm is perfect as it is designed to be a non-greasy, yet powerful formula that intensely moisturises the skin.

Whilst sunlight and UV exposure can be beneficial for those with psoriasis, people suffering with eczema often find that sunshine can exasperate symptoms.

In conclusion

The best advice we can give is to discuss your condition with a Doctor or Pharmacist and discuss natural healing options. Our customer services team are always on hand to assist - we love to hear from you. Please share your stories and progress on our social media channels