Psoriasis and eczema are both skin conditions that may cause dry, itchy, and swollen skin patches on the face, hands, and legs. Some key characteristics may help you differentiate between them.
Psoriasis and eczema are two skin conditions that commonly affect similar body parts, such as the face, hands, and legs.
Both conditions may cause similar symptoms, which could make it hard to
However, key differences in appearance could help a doctor diagnose the condition.
Keep reading to learn more about the differences between psoriasis and eczema, as well as pictures to help you differentiate between both conditions.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the overproduction of skin cells. This accumulation of dead skin cells builds up into thick, raised skin plaques with prominent borders.
Symptoms of psoriasis usually appear between ages
Eczema is a general term for a group of skin conditions that cause itchy, inflamed, and irritated skin.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), eczema is characterized by an “itch that rashes.†Scratching very itchy skin can gradually lead to:
- a dry rash
- small bumps
- blisters that ooze or crust over
The AAD also notes that eczema usually appears between ages 2 months and 5 years. Most people outgrow eczema. However, it’s possible to experience symptoms into adulthood or to first develop the condition in adulthood.
Psoriasis and eczema may both cause flare-ups, which are periods when symptoms of psoriasis or eczema worsen or re-appear. These are followed by remission, which are periods when symptoms calm down or disappear.
Learn more about the difference between psoriasis and eczema.
Psoriasis on the face
Symptoms of plaque psoriasis most commonly affect the elbows, knees, and lower back.
However, research suggests that almost
Learn more about facial psoriasis.
Eczema on the face
Eczema on the face can also cause discomfort and be very itchy.
According to the National Eczema Association, people with dark skin tones may experience more extensive skin dryness and dark, scaly circles around the eyes.
When repeatedly scratched or rubbed, the skin could become thicker and have raised bumps called prurigo nodules. This can also occur on the trunk, legs, or arms.
Learn more about eczema on the face.
Psoriasis on the hands
Psoriasis can affect any part of your hands, such as:
- knuckles
- fingers
- palms or backs of your hands (palmoplantar psoriasis)
- nails
Palmoplantar psoriasis tends to be red, dry, and thick. It may also cause deep, painful cracks or pustular lesions, known as palmoplantar pustulosis.
The National Psoriasis Foundation reports that research suggests that up to 9 out 10 people with psoriasis also experience nail psoriasis. This psoriasis type may
- nail pitting
- white color
- severely malformed nails
- splitting nails
Learn more about psoriasis on the hands.
Eczema on the hands
Atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema, most commonly affects the hands, elbows, and knees. It may also affect your scalp and is common on the face of babies.
Eczema commonly appears on the palms and backs of the hands, according to the National Eczema Society. This is because the hands often come in contact with soaps, lotions, fabric, animals, and other allergens or irritants.
Frequent handwashing may also further dry out your skin, leading to eczema symptoms.
Learn more about eczema on the hands.
Psoriasis up and down the legs
Psoriasis frequently occurs on the legs and knees. Although some cases of psoriasis may cover significant portions of the legs, other types may appear in isolated patches.
The different types of psoriasis may also have different appearances on the legs.
For instance, guttate psoriasis may appear in many separate, drop-like, discolored, scaly spots all over the legs.
On the other hand, plaque psoriasis appears in large, shapeless plaques of thick, raised skin with discoloration and dry scales.
Eczema up and down the legs
Eczema on the legs may often occur in body “creases,†such as the back of the knee or the front of the ankle. These areas may trap sweat or irritants from clothing and the air.
Close contact of irritants with skin and areas of skin rubbing together create a perfect environment for atopic dermatitis to thrive.
If you experience an eczema rash in the legs along with bulging veins or lower leg swelling, you may have stasis dermatitis. This condition is caused by restricted blood flow.
Psoriasis and eczema can develop in very uncomfortable places.
For instance, inverse psoriasis and other types of psoriasis may develop under the breasts, on the groin, armpits, and skin folds. Psoriasis in skinfolds or the genital area will appear smooth and shiny and may resemble eczema.
Affected areas often include larger, more solid patches of smoother skin than typical psoriasis. This is likely because of increased moisture in these areas.
Similarly, eczema can occur in many inconvenient places — especially in infants. Diapers and baby creams may irritate sensitive skin, causing extreme diaper rash.
Hypersensitivity to the diaper material or the creams used in washing the area can aggravate the skin. Switching to soft cotton diapers or using a different cleanser may help ease eczema in the genital area in infants.
Adults with eczema in sensitive areas may need to change laundry detergents, cleansers, and fabrics.
Treatment for psoriasis and eczema will depend on several factors, such as the severity of your symptoms and which part of your body is affected.
There’s no cure for these conditions, but a healthcare professional like a dermatologist can help develop the best treatment plan for you. This may include a combination of:
- topical medications, such as corticosteroids and medicated shampoos
- oral medications, such as JAK inhibitors and antihistamines
- injection medications, such as biologics
- light therapies, such as phototherapy
- lifestyle and dietary changes, such as staying physically active (such as exercising), reducing stress, and avoiding triggers
Some natural remedies like oatmeal baths may also help you manage psoriasis and eczema.
Learn more about treatments for psoriasis and treatments for eczema.
Connect with others who have psoriasis
Connecting with other people living with psoriasis could help you learn more tips about how to manage your symptoms.
Bezzy Psoriasis is a free app for people living with psoriasis. As a Bezzy member, you can participate in forum discussions, weekly live chats, and have access to in-app one-to-one messages.
It’s available to download via AppStore and Google Play.
How do I know if it’s eczema or psoriasis?
Eczema most commonly affects children and is typically very itchy. It may cause a dry rash, small bumps, and blisters that ooze or crust over. Psoriasis usually affects people ages
It’s best to speak with a doctor if you experience dry, itchy, and inflamed skin patches. They could provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for you.
What is the best cream for psoriasis and eczema?
Topical medications for eczema and psoriasis are medications you apply directly to the skin. The best cream will depend on the condition and the severity of your symptoms, as well as the affected body part.
Some topical medications may include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, vitamin D analogs, and preparations that may include capsaicin, coal tar, and salicylic acid.
Can you have both psoriasis and eczema?
Yes, it’s possible to have both skin conditions. Learn more about having psoriasis and eczema.
Psoriasis and eczema are skin conditions that may cause dry, itchy, and scaly rashes anywhere on the body.
These rashes could develop on visible body parts like the face and hands, which may cause discomfort and a lack of self-esteem. Myths that eczema and psoriasis are contagious could also cause people to feel isolated.
By helping inform people about these skin conditions, such as they are not contagious, you can help people with psoriasis or eczema feel better understood, more informed about their condition, and encouraged about society being more inclusive and supportive.