If your child has developed itchy, red patches on their skin, it can be difficult to know whether it is eczema or psoriasis. Both conditions are common in children and share similar symptoms, which can make distinguishing between them challenging.
However, understanding their key differences can help parents make sense of what their child might be dealing with and guide them in seeking appropriate care.
In this blog, we will break down the fundamental differences between psoriasis and eczema, offer an overview of their symptoms, and explain how they affect the skin differently.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a long-lasting skin condition that occurs when the immune system causes skin cells to grow too quickly. The extra skin cells pile up on the surface, creating thick, scaly patches that can be red, pink, or white.
Unlike some other skin conditions, psoriasis is not caused by an allergy or infection. It is often seen in families, which means genetics may play a role. Psoriasis can happen to anyone, but it sometimes starts in childhood.
Psoriasis Symptoms
Psoriasis symptoms often look like thick, raised patches of skin that are covered in silvery scales. These patches tend to appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back. However, they can show up anywhere on the body. Common symptoms include:
- Thick, scaly skin patches
- Red or inflamed areas under the scales
- Itching or soreness around the patches
Some children with psoriasis may also develop small pits in their nails or nail discoloration.
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis happens because the immune system sends signals that speed up skin cell growth. This process is triggered by certain factors, such as:
- Stress
- Cold weather
- Certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers or lithium)
- Skin injuries (like cuts, scrapes, or sunburns)
It is essential to know that psoriasis is not contagious, so your child cannot pass it to others.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a common skin condition that causes the skin to become red, dry, and itchy. While there is no one known cause of eczema, it often runs in families and can be triggered by environmental factors like allergens or irritants.
Children with eczema may also have other conditions like asthma or allergies.
Eczema Symptoms
Eczema symptoms can vary depending on the child, but some of the most common signs include:
- Red, inflamed skin
- Dry, flaky patches
- Intense itching
- Tiny, fluid-filled bumps that may ooze or crust over
Eczema symptoms can appear almost anywhere but are most common on the face, hands, feet, or in the folds of the elbows and knees.
What Causes Eczema?
Eczema is thought to happen due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Triggers for eczema symptoms include:
- Certain soaps, detergents, or fragrances
- Dust mites, pet fur, or pollen
- Extreme weather conditions, like hot or cold weather
- Stress or anxiety
- Certain foods, such as dairy or nuts
It is important to avoid triggers to help reduce eczema rash flare-ups.
Key Differences Between Psoriasis and Eczema
While psoriasis and eczema may share some overlapping signs, there are notable distinctions.
Appearance
Psoriasis patches tend to appear raised, thick, and scaly, often with a silvery-white coating. Eczema rash, by contrast, typically looks inflamed, red, and swollen without a scaly texture.
Triggers
For psoriasis, triggers often stem from internal factors like stress or infection, while eczema is more frequently set off by external irritants like soaps or allergens.
Itchiness
Eczema on the skin is often more intensely itchy than psoriasis. Scratching can worsen eczema symptoms, leading to further skin damage. While psoriasis tends to itch, as well, it is often accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation.
Age Onset
Eczema most commonly begins in infancy or childhood, whereas psoriasis often appears later, sometimes during adolescence or adulthood. However, children can develop psoriasis, too.
When to See a Dermatology Provider
Skin conditions can be confusing and frustrating to manage on your own. If your child’s eczema does not improve with over-the-counter treatments, or if you notice thick, scaly patches that could be psoriasis, it is time to see a provider.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help your child avoid discomfort and get back to healthy, happy skin.
Eczema Symptom Relief in Phoenix, AZ
If your child’s skin condition is impacting their sleep or daily activities, or if over-the-counter solutions fail to manage symptoms, reach out to us at Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology. Led by Samantha Casselman, a skilled and compassionate pediatric dermatology practitioner, we specialize in evidence-based treatments that minimize discomfort.
From managing eczema to treating psoriasis symptoms, we are here to support you and your child every step of the way.
We are located in Phoenix, Arizona, and proudly serve the surrounding areas, including Yuma. You can call us at (602) 837-3376 or request an appointment using our form to learn more about eczema dermatitis. We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/symptoms-causes/syc-20353273
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840
