People often confuse psoriasis with eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis), but they are not the same chronic condition. Here are the differences between psoriasis and eczema:
A thick patch of white scales is characteristic of psoriasis. This is caused by a chronic autoimmune condition that results in the overproduction of skin cells. As the excess skin cells build up, silvery-white scales form. Furthermore, this causes the skin to become inflamed, red, and often itchy.
Eczema occurs because of a hypersensitivity reaction. This causes the skin to overreact to certain triggers, such as dyes, fabrics, soaps, animals, and other irritants. With eczema, the skin may appear red, inflamed, peeling, cracked, blistered, or pus-filled. But, unlike psoriasis, it’s not covered with scales of cell buildup. Eczema is also typically very itchy, which may interfere with daily activities, such as sleeping.
There is no cure for psoriasis, and flare-ups aren’t always able to be linked to any cause. Most eczema can be cleared with topical treatment and by avoiding triggers.