Eczema & Psoriasis: How to Soothe and Treat Sensitive Skin Conditions

Understanding Eczema & Psoriasis

Eczema and psoriasis are chronic inflammatory skin conditions that cause redness, itching, and discomfort. While they share some similarities, they have different underlying causes and require targeted treatments.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

🩹 Cause: A combination of genetics, an overactive immune system, and a weakened skin barrier.
🩹 Symptoms: Dry, red, inflamed, and intensely itchy patches of skin.
🩹 Triggers: Allergens, irritants, stress, dry weather, and certain skincare products.

Psoriasis

🦠 Cause: An autoimmune disorder where skin cells turn over too quickly, leading to plaque buildup.
🦠 Symptoms: Thick, scaly, red patches with silvery flakes, often on elbows, knees, and scalp.
🦠 Triggers: Stress, infections, cold weather, and certain medications.

Dermatologist-Recommended Treatments

1. Strengthening the Skin Barrier

🔹 Ceramides & Fatty Acids – Help restore the protective skin barrier (found in CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, and Wave formulas).
🔹 Hyaluronic Acid & Glycerin – Hydrate deeply to reduce flaking and irritation.
🔹 Colloidal Oatmeal – Soothes inflammation and relieves itching.

2. Prescription & Over-the-Counter Treatments

💊 Topical Corticosteroids – Reduce inflammation (low to high potency based on severity).
💊 Calcineurin Inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus) – Non-steroidal treatments for eczema-prone areas like the face.
💊 Vitamin D Analogues & Retinoids – Regulate skin cell turnover for psoriasis.
💊 Biologic Injections (Dupixent, Humira, Stelara) – For severe cases, target immune pathways to control inflammation.

3. Lifestyle & Home Remedies

🌿 Use Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic Skincare – Avoid irritants like sulfates and synthetic fragrances.
🌿 Moisturize Immediately After Showering – Traps hydration and prevents dryness.
🌿 Take Lukewarm Showers – Hot water strips natural oils, worsening symptoms.
🌿 Manage Stress & Sleep Well – Stress triggers flare-ups, so mindfulness and good sleep hygiene help.

Ingredients to Look For (& What to Avoid)

Best Ingredients for Eczema & Psoriasis

✅ Ceramides – Repair and protect the skin barrier.
✅ Shea Butter & Squalane – Lock in moisture and soothe irritation.
✅ Aloe Vera & Green Tea Extract – Calm inflammation and reduce redness.
✅ Niacinamide – Strengthens the skin and reduces irritation.
✅ Colloidal Oatmeal – Provides immediate relief for itching.
✅ Zinc Pyrithione & Coal Tar – Effective for scalp psoriasis.

Ingredients to Avoid

❌ Sulfates & Harsh Detergents – Strip moisture and worsen irritation.
❌ Fragrances & Essential Oils – Can trigger allergic reactions and worsen inflammation.
❌ Alcohol-Based Products – Dry out the skin and increase sensitivity.
❌ Physical Scrubs – Can further irritate inflamed skin.

Best Dermatologist-Approved Products

🔹 Best Moisturizer for Eczema: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
🔹 Best Body Wash for Sensitive Skin: Eucerin Eczema Relief Body Wash
🔹 Best OTC Psoriasis Treatment: MG217 Psoriasis Treatment Shampoo (Coal Tar Formula)
🔹 Best Prescription Alternative: CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream with Salicylic Acid
🔹 Best Soothing Balm: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+

Final Thoughts: Managing Eczema & Psoriasis Long-Term

✔ Consistency is key – Stick to a gentle, hydrating skincare routine.
✔ Identify and avoid triggers – Patch test new products and track flare-ups.
✔ See a dermatologist for severe cases – Prescription treatments can help control chronic symptoms.
✔ Hydrate & protect your skin daily – Prevention is easier than treating flare-ups.