Heal Flaky Red Skin With These Topical Treatments
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Psoriasis is a skin condition that most commonly causes red, scaly patches in areas along the body like the knees, scalp, and elbows. The long-term chronic condition has no cure, with people typically experiencing flare ups for a few weeks to a few months before it dies down.
Although there is no cure to the condition, products on the market help to relieve dryness, itchiness, irritation, and discomfort. Not all lotions are created equal, with some using fragrances, dyes, and chemicals that can further irritate your psoriasis instead of relieving symptoms.
Mark Lebwohl, M.D., a New York board-certified dermatologist and member of American Academy of Dermatology, told Verywell Health that people should seek an expert opinion if over-the-counter topicals dont relieve their psoriasis symptoms, as a prescription topical could provide better results.
If you’re looking for some OTC products to help soothe a last minute flare up, here are some of the best on the market.
Can Eczema Become Psoriasis
Eczema and psoriasis are completely different conditions. So, eczema cant turn into psoriasis, and vice versa. But, since the conditions can look so similar, it can be tough to tell the difference even in a clinical setting, especially in children. According to AAD, in these instances, a dermatologist may diagnose the skin condition as psoriasiform dermatitis.
Theres some overlap, too. Its not common, but you can technically get both psoriasis and eczema at the same time, which can be extra confusing. Your dermatologist will usually be able to distinguish between the two.
At What Age Do They Start
Eczema usually starts in babies or young children. Often, symptoms improve when a kid becomes a grown-up.
It’s less common, but possible, to get it as an adult. When that happens, it’s usually because you have another condition like thyroid disease, hormone changes, or stress.
Psoriasis, on the other hand, usually shows up between ages 15 and 35. But you can get it at other ages too. It’s rare for a baby to have it.
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Best Overall: Cerave Sa Lotion For Rough & Bumpy Skin
Our skin contains ceramides, which are waxy lipid molecules that naturally occur within our cells membranes and are believed to play a role in reviving the skins protective barrier. That is why experts recommend CeraVe SA Lotion, as its formulate incorporates three types of ceramides to help hydrate the skin.
The product also uses salicylic acida go-to ingredient to relieve psoriasis patchesas a chemical exfoliant to target dry skin. The lactic acid and the ceramides in the formula work to keep new skin exfoliated and hydrated. Besides all these benefits, the product is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
Is There A Time Of Year When Skin Conditions Are More Prevalent
There are no absolute patterns for what makes eczema worse, as it varies from patient to patient. Many patients with atopic dermatitis experience worse symptoms in the winter when the air is drier. Other patients are also affected by hotter temperatures. Scratching which can be unavoidable due to the intense itching will make the rash worse.
Additional factors
Eczema is associated with asthma and food allergies, but treating these conditions does not always cure or remedy the skin condition. Stress also affects eczema.
Psoriasis can get worse from:
- Alcohol or tobacco use
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Best For Hands: Mg217 Medicated Moisturizing Psoriasis Cream
Providing enough hydration to the hands can be a challenge, as they often are depleted of their moisture with hand washing and other tasks throughout the day. MG217 Medicated Salicylic Acid cream is fast-absorbing and doesnt stain, meaning you can get back to your other tasks within minutes of use.
The fragrance-free lotion is non-irritating and uses salicylic acid to target any psoriasis patches. Provitamin B5, avocado oil, shea butter, and aloe then mix in to provide hydrating relief. Customers rave that it’s one of the few lotions that works for them to relieve dry patches.
Now we know shampoo is not technically lotion, but hear us out. Washing the hair removes the natural oils that help keep the scalp moisturized and healthy. This can further irritate any psoriasis patches already forming on the surface.
This is where Neutrogenas T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo comes in. The product addresses dryness and flakiness on the scalp that can be caused by psoriasis while also keeping the surface hydrated. Included in the formula is coal tar extract, which scientists say works up to four hours after hair washing to help the scalp shed dead skin cells.
How Can You Tell Whether You Have Eczema Or Psoriasis
The two diseases are very different, but they have some similarities that can make it difficult to tell them apart. This is particularly true for certain areas of the body, like the hands, or when the disease covers the entire body.
Neither one is contagious, which is another point they have in common.
There is usually a clear visual distinction, however. For psoriasis:
- the patches have a much brighter red tone
- the lesions have much clearer more well-defined edges
- the patches are thicker and covered in thick, white scales.
The following additional signs may indicate psoriasis:
- Psoriasis is very rare in infants, but when it does affect this age group, it appears in the diaper area as bright red, well-defined patches with no scaling.
- Psoriasis can appear in children. Often, the outbreak is preceded by an infection, and the patches are spread out over the body: guttate psoriasis.
- In adults, psoriasis affects different areas of the body, particularly:
- the front of the knees
- the elbows
- the buttocks
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What Does Psoriasis Look Like
Although psoriasis occurs at any age, it most frequently appears between the ages of 16 and 22. If you have skin plaques that may be psoriasis, call specialists like the dermatologists at Park Avenue Dermatology for an evaluation.
There are different types of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is most common.
Thick, red patches of painful, itchy skin can appear on any part of the body, but often on the scalp, lower back, knees, and elbows. Other types of psoriasis appear on other areas of the body, like the feet, underarms, or groin area.
If you have psoriasis, your chance of developing other health problems like psoriatic arthritis, diabetes, Celiac disease, and metabolic syndrome increases.
Learning The Differences Between Eczema And Psoriasis
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Psoriasis causes well-defined, thick, red, scaly patches, commonly in areas like the elbows and knees. It is common to see psoriasis on the face, buttocks, and scalp of a child. Youll also commonly see thick patches of skin with overlying redness.
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Eczema tends to appear in the crooks of the knees and the elbows.
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Children who have psoriasis tend to have mild itching. In eczema, the itching can be intense.
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There are many ways for a dermatologist to tell the difference between eczema and psoriasis, including what one sees on the skin, the amount of itch, and where the disease appears on the skin.
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When To See A Doctor For Psoriasis Or Eczema
The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends that anyone living with psoriasis see a dermatologist. Its especially important to see a dermatologist if your psoriasis symptoms are getting worse, if you develop new symptoms, if your joints start to hurt, or if the treatment recommended by your primary care physician isnt working.
If you have eczema and your symptoms get worse or if you show signs of an infectionred, painful, oozing, or blistery skinthen its best to see a doctor as soon as possible. If youve seen a doctor already and the treatment plan they gave you isnt working, a dermatologist will be able to give you more specialized care.
Healing Skin Cream For Eczema And Psoriasis
Whoa! What a snap back into reality with school back in session, oh wait, just kidding, schools closed today due to the excessive cold. I really didnt need the girls to be home again today after a nice two week vacation. Not that I dont enjoy their company BUT it sure is nice to have a few less kids in the house so I can get more accomplished. Instead, after a few battles this morning over random toys, we spent some quality time doing manicures and experimenting with their new Jamberry nail wraps. All of this chilly weather, however, has dry skin issues written all over it! Add to that, perhaps, some less than stellar eating habits over the holidays and those of you with eczema and psoriasis may been feeling a little uptick in symptoms so its only appropriate that I share with you my recipe for Healing Skin Cream specifically geared toward eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. You can totally use this for other skin ailments or as an intense healing hand crème for the winter months.
I use this healing skin cream for my 3 year old sons eczema flare-ups and they are typically gone or dramatically reduced overnight. My husband uses it on his psoriasis as well with good results. I would love to hear if this works for you!
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How Can I Get Started On Treatment
Eczema and psoriasis arent entirely curable. But, Dr. Wang says they can be treated and managed to reduce pain, control itching and minimize flare-ups of patches and plaques. Whether you’re dealing with one condition or the other , managing eczema and psoriasis starts with a skincare specialist best identifying your triggers. You’ll work to avoid these irritating events, and you’ll also treat any sustained skin injuries that may add to pain or irritation. Mostly, you’ll work to stay out of the sun and use solutions to help avoid scratching your skin.
Mild cases of both conditions can be treated at home. Dr. Wang suggests using a mild soap, over-the-counter hydrocortisone and emollients, which are therapeutic moisturizers. There are also lotions and creams for both eczema and psoriasis available to consumers.
If your skin doesnt respond to at-home treatments, or the eczema or psoriasis exhibit more aggressive symptoms than ever before, its time to visit the dermatologist. Always discuss long-term treatment with your care provider when resorting to over-the-counter products.
Treatments will vary based on how severe the condition is and patient preference, Dr. Wang explains, but usually include topical steroids, light therapy and prescription drugs for the inflammation. For severe psoriasis, when patients have 10% to 30% of their body covered in plaques, injectable medications, called biologics, are used.
Whats The Difference Between Eczema And Psoriasis
Eczema and psoriasis are different chronic conditions, though they both cause red, itchy skin rashes. But for doctors, these rashes have slight differences that the trained eye can usually detect.
Atopic dermatitis tends to have less well-defined borders, doesn’t have as much thick scale as psoriasis and tends to be just a little bit more crusty, Dr. Wang explains. Overall, atopic dermatitis tends to be itchier. Both are itchy conditions, but atopic dermatitis is probably more itchy.
Neither condition is contagious, and eczema and psoriasis cant be prevented.
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Best Natural: Wild Naturals Eczema & Psoriasis Cream
Looking for a lotion that provides itchiness relief, repairs damaged skin cells, and smooths the skin, all while not using any harmful additives, fragrances, or chemicals? Then Wild Naturals Eczema & Psoriasis Cream could be the lotion for you.
The formula boasts all-natural ingredients, including organic aloe veraan anti-inflammatory that penetrates deep to soothe cracked skinand manuka honey, which provides healing properties. In all, the moisturizer combines vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to help seal in moisture so the skin stays hydrated for hours on end. Customers say the product brightens and smoothes their skin while minimizing psoriasis patches.
What Causes Psoriasis
Psoriasis is the result of an autoimmune condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, that causes the body to regenerate skin faster than normal. However, flare-ups come and go yes, the patches will go away and it’s not always easy to tell what triggers them.
You might go for months or even years without a psoriasis flare-up. The Mayo Clinic suggests that environmental factors are usually to blame for new rashes they could be triggered by the weather, alcohol, smoking or high stress levels. A skin infection or injury can also lead to a flare-up.
Some of these triggers are avoidable some really aren’t. So while your doctor can help you minimize your risk of psoriasis flare-ups, you should also have a plan in place to manage the rashes if they do pop up. That’s where oats come in.
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A Life With Psoriasis
Although psoriasis comes and goes over time, its a lifelong condition. A lack of public understanding about psoriasis causes many people with this condition to feel isolated and ostracized.
But most people with psoriasis lead fulfilling, active lives. Here are some tips you can try to avoid psoriasis triggers.
Using Hydrocortisone With Other Skin Creams
Do not apply hydrocortisone at the same time as other creams or ointments such as a moisturiser. Wait at least 10 minutes between using hydrocortisone and any other product. Try to use different skin products at different times of the day.
If you’re using a dressing like a bandage or plaster, wait at least 10 minutes after putting hydrocortisone on.
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When Do Psoriasis And Eczema Usually Appear
Psoriasis usually appears between the ages of 16 and 22, but it can happen at any age.
Eczema usually begins younger, appearing as early as 6 months of age. Although some people grow out of eczema, many people continue to have it throughout their life. Even if you have eczema for a long time, there may be periods when it gets better or worse.
Best Budget: Cortizone 10 Anti
Itchiness can be one of the most debilitating symptoms of psoriasis, making it hard for you to focus on your everyday life. Cortizone-10 Anti Itch Lotion specifically targets that symptom to provide long-lasting relief to irritated skin. Included in the product is maximum strength hydrocortisone, a leading ingredient in treating itchiness. The hydrocortisone is combined with seven different types of moisturizers and two vitamins to hydrate the skin while helping it heal.
Customers say the lotion is the holy grail of aiding their psoriasis because its non-drying, compared to other anti-itch creams on the market, and it relieves their red and irritated skin patches.
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What’s The Difference Between Eczema And Psoriasis
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Children get eczema. They can also get psoriasis.
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While more children develop eczema than psoriasis, almost 1% of children have psoriasis.
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Its not always easy to tell whether a child has eczema or psoriasis. A study conducted in Australia found that most children who had psoriasis were initially diagnosed by their primary care doctor as having another disease, often eczema.
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To a dermatologists trained eye, psoriasis and eczema tend to look quite different.
Dermaveen Sensitive Relief Eczema Lotion
Product name: DermaVeen Sensitive Relief Eczema Lotion
Cost: $15.49
Overview: Free from lanolin, parabens, artificial dyes and fragrance, DermaVeen Sensitive Relief Eczema Lotion contains natural colloidal oatmeal. It is pH balanced and infants, children and adults can use it all over the body. Its best applied after showering or bathing so that the lotion can form a protective barrier over the skin and work to rehydrate it.
Review: This lotion has been designed specifically for mild eczema flare-ups, so it may not be sufficient for people who suffer from severe eczema. But if you or a family member is fed up of enduring mild eczema, this could be the lotion for you.
One mum wrote: My son suffered from eczema and sensitive skin ever since he was a newborn. It was around 2 years of age that a friend recommended DermaVeen moisturiser. We had tried all different products, but his skin would always flare up. My son is now 11 years of age and we are still using this product. It’s oatmeal-based component helps the skin keep its moisture and with no lanolin or alcohol my sons skin doesn’t get irritated. The whole family use this moisturiser now and my husband loves the fact it has a subtle fragrance.
You can buy it here
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What Are Some Of The Symptoms
With both diseases, most patients experience severe itching that can be intense and interfere significantly with everyday life. Psoriasis appears in large sections of the skin, sometimes on elbows and knees, and is thick. It can also be accompanied by painful arthritis. Eczema occurs in the areas where the elbows and knees bend, but it can also be on your wrist, face and scalp. It creates dark, scaly, oozing skin that is not as thick as psoriasis.
What Is Neem Oil
Extracted from the fruits and seeds of the neem tree, neem oil is a thick red or green oil that is not only highly moisturizing but is naturally antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and can provide external relief from pain and itchiness.
Though its smell can be quite strong its medicinal qualities are impressive and its relatively safe to use as a self-prescribed treatment. In fact, the Indian culture has been using Neem oil for thousands of years for anything from skin diseases and inflammation to fevers and insecticide.
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