Eczema vs. Psoriasis: Understanding the Differences & Supporting Your Skin
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and when it’s inflamed, itchy, or irritated, it’s trying to tell you something.
Eczema and psoriasis are two common skin conditions that often get confused—but they have different root causes and require different approaches for support.
What is Eczema?
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It’s often linked to an overactive immune response and can be triggered by allergens, irritants, stress, and even gut imbalances. It commonly appears on the hands, face, inside elbows, and behind knees.
Signs of Eczema:
- Red, dry, and scaly patches of skin
- Intense itching, sometimes leading to scratching and bleeding
- Can be triggered by allergens, stress, or changes in weather
- Often starts in childhood but can develop at any age
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where the body produces skin cells too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches that can be red, silver, or white.
Unlike eczema, psoriasis is often associated with systemic inflammation and can be linked to gut health, stress, and immune system imbalances.
Signs of Psoriasis:
- Thick, raised, and scaly plaques (often silver or red)
- Commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back
- Can be itchy or painful, sometimes cracking and bleeding
- Linked to systemic inflammation and often runs in families
How to Support Skin Health Naturally
As an esthetician and integrative health practitioner, I cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions, I can support skin health by focusing on rebalancing the body from the inside out.
Here’s how:
1. Professional Skin Treatments
Hydrating, barrier-repairing facials can soothe inflammation and support the skin’s natural defenses. Light therapy and targeted treatments may also help. Book your skin treatment here.
2. At-Home Skincare
Using gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers and barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid can make a world of difference. Let’s create a customized skincare plan. Schedule your consultation here.
3. Diet & Lifestyle Adjustments
Both eczema and psoriasis are linked to gut health and inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory foods, probiotics, and stress management techniques can play a key role in reducing flare-ups.
4. Foundational Nutrition
Balanced nutrition is key for clear skin. A strong foundation includes:
- High-quality multivitamin (fills nutrient gaps that impact skin health)
- Essential minerals (like zinc, which supports acne-prone skin)
- Omega-3 fatty acids (help reduce inflammation and redness)
- Probiotics (support gut-skin connection and reduce breakouts)
Take a look at my foundational regimen here.
5. Targeted Supplementation
Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and adaptogens can help support skin health and immune function.
Not sure what you need? We can explore a personalized approach. Let’s chat about your skin’s needs.
6. At-Home Lab Testing
Want to get to the root of inflammation and skin flare-ups? Functional lab testing can reveal underlying imbalances, including food sensitivities, gut issues, and nutrient deficiencies.
Let’s take a deeper look at what your body needs. Book a discovery call to learn more.
Final Thoughts
Eczema and psoriasis can feel overwhelming, but taking a holistic approach can bring relief and balance.
By focusing on skincare, nutrition, and targeted wellness strategies, you can support your skin from the inside out.
If you’re unsure where to start, I’d love to guide you. Let’s start your skin health journey today.