What is Eczema?

Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy and inflamed. It appears as dry or scaly patches and can develop anywhere on your body. While it isn’t contagious, there are 8 different types of eczema that can develop as a result of environmental triggers and genetics. It is estimated that over 30 million Americans suffer from Eczema.

There isn’t an eczema cure, but there are treatments to help manage symptoms. No treatment option will work for everyone, and treatments can range from eczema medicine, such as prescription topical treatments, over-the-counter products, and lifestyle modifications. Eczema treatment must be consistent regardless of which type of eczema you have.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disease associated with the immune system which causes your skin cells to reproduce too quickly. A normal skin cell matures and falls off the body’s surface in 28 to 30 days. However, skin affected by psoriasis takes only three to four days to mature and move to the surface. Instead of the cells falling off, they pile up and form scaly lesions. Psoriasis flare ups are caused by triggers. Triggers are not universal, but four main factors include stress, skin injury, infection and alcohol.

What Are Psoriasis Symptoms?

Psoriasis symptoms can vary for each person and depend on the specific type. Most people with this condition have red, inflamed patches of skin that are covered in thick, whitish-silver scales. These patches of skin tend to itch, and they can also burn or feel sore. It’s common for the skin around the patches to feel dry, which can lead to skin that cracks and bleeds. Stiff, swollen joints are symptoms that commonly occur in people with psoriatic arthritis.

Symptoms frequently go through cycles. You might experience noticeable symptoms for several days or weeks, and then they might subside for a period of time or even go into remission. Symptoms appear on most areas of the body, including the scalp, face, hands, elbows, knees, and feet.

What Are Psoriasis Treatment Options?

There isn’t a cure, but psoriasis treatment can improve your symptoms by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells and reducing itching, pain, and discomfort. Treatment depends on the type of psoriasis you have and which parts of the body are affected.

For mild cases, your dermatologist may prescribe a topical corticosteroid to help manage symptoms, or recommend other topical treatments, such as those containing salicylic acid, coal tar, retinoids, or aloe vera. Light therapy, also called phototherapy, can ease mild to moderate symptoms, as can daily exposure to sunlight. For severe cases, your doctor may prescribe oral or injectable medications that will suppress the immune system.