Eczema and Psoriasis - Comparison

Eczema and psoriasis cause a lot of trouble to patients. The worst thing is that these disorders worsen the quality of life. The "cosmetic defects" that they cause restrict the patient's freedom of choice in hairstyles, clothes, and manners. Being embarrassed by their appearance, patients with eczema/psoriasis become much less sociable.

Both, eczema and psoriasis are characterized by skin rash, but in different locations.

Psoriasis: the rough skin is affected more often, such as elbows, knees, legs, back, etc. The skin is affected by pinkish symmetrical spots, covered with whitish scales. The spots often itch. In addition to the skin, nails and joints (psoriatic arthritis) can be affected as well.

Eczema: the delicate skin is affected more often, such as face, neck, wrists, forearms, elbow/knee bends, areas behind the ears, chest, and areas between the shoulder blades. The skin develops red areas with oozing, erosions, and abundant crusts.

Both disorders can affect the scalp.

With eczema, itching is very strong, close to unbearable. In psoriasis, itching is not that strong or persistent.

The cause of psoriasis is mysterious, and has to do with: genetics, immune system, metabolism, hormones, nervous system, infections, toxins, etc. It’s believed that the cause of eczema is allergy. Eczema is also associated with microbes, seborrhea, and chemical irritants.

Eczema/psoriasis can affect both, the elderly and infants. Both diseases often appear after an emotional turmoil. Both diseases can get worse due to the consumption of "bad food" and alcohol.

Unfortunately, we can't speak about complete healing of eczema or psoriasis. We can only talk about long-term remission and trying to learn to live with your disorder (I've almost learned to live with my psoriasis LOL).

The treatments are plentiful, including diet, pharmaceuticals, various natural means, etc. Both ailments (especially psoriasis) can be helped with the sun, and thousands of patients travel to the south in search of sun. However, excessive direct sunlight can cause burns, and sometimes even worsening of the state. That’s why doctors recommend tanning in the shade.

Many patients with eczema and psoriasis use UVB lamps with simulated solar light of a certain wavelength - Narrowband 311nm UVB (Ultra Violet B). Light therapy improves the mood and restores the skin in the majority of patients with eczema/psoriasis (UVB is my favorite; I have a small lamp at home).

UVB lamps can be used at home. Because of their safety and gentle effect on the body, UVB lamps have gained huge popularity in the treatment of skin disorders like eczema and psoriasis.
If you are bothered by eczema or psoriasis and haven’t tried UVB yet, do consider giving it a try. If you have tried UVB – please share your experience below.

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