TCM Made Simple

Eczema or Psoriasis? Spot the Difference

Eczema and psoriasis may look similar, but they are two different skin conditions. Understanding their differences in symptoms, locations, and triggers can help you identify them early and choose appropriate care.

	Eczema	Psoriasis
Appearance	Red, dry, or oozing patches Rash often looks blurred or poorly defined Intense itching. In serious cases, scratching may cause bleeding	Thick, red patches with silvery-white scales Borders are very sharp and defined Mild itching. It often feels more like a stinging or burning sensation
Location	In the creases (inside elbows, behind knees)	On the outside (knees, elbows, scalp, lower back)
Causes	WM Theory: A mix of genetics or allergies to environmental or material substances (soaps, dust, weather) TCM Theory: Constitutional intolerance, with wind, dampness, and heat accumulating in the skin	WM Theory: An autoimmune condition where skin cells grow too fast and pile up. TCM Theory: Blood and nutrient deficiency cause wind, dryness, and malnourished skin, presenting as blood heat, blood stasis, or blood dryness
Triggers	Soap, certain food, dust, animal fur etc.	Stress and emotions, cold/dry climate and environment

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the core treatment principles for skin conditions are usually to clear heat and toxins, dispel dampness and relieve itching, cool the blood, and promote blood circulation.

General Precautions:

Avoid scalding with hot water; avoid scratching.
Avoid alcohol, peanuts, damp-heat fruits (mango, durian), seafood, and spicy foods.
Maintain a regular lifestyle; avoid irritants and improper use of medication.