Dermatitis vs. Eczema vs. Psoriasis

Table of Contents

• Key Points
• What Is Dermatitis?
• What Is Eczema?
• What Is Psoriasis?
• Key Differences: Dermatitis vs Eczema vs Psoriasis
• When Conditions Overlap
• Treatment Approaches
• Find Expert Dermatological Care Today
• References

 

 

Key Points

• Dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis affect a large percentage of the population. 
• While they have some commonalities in terms of causes and symptoms, they are distinct conditions that warrant specific approaches to prevention (where possible) and treatment. 
• Understanding these differences is the first step in formulating an effective approach to combating the effects of these conditions.

 

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According to the National Eczema Association, more than 31 million Americans, or about 10 percent of the population, suffer from the condition.¹ While less prevalent, approximately 8 million people in the United States have psoriasis. Worldwide, the total reaches  125 million, or 2 to 3 percent of the total global population.²

These staggering numbers highlight just how common inflammatory skin conditions have become. Yet, despite their prevalence, many people struggle to understand the differences between dermatitis vs. eczema vs. psoriasis, often leading to delayed treatment and unnecessary discomfort.

As experienced dermatologists, we frequently encounter patients who arrive at our office confused about their skin condition. They have tried countless over-the-counter remedies, searched endless internet forums, and still cannot determine the condition with which they are dealing. This confusion is understandable, since these conditions share several similarities but require distinctly different treatment approaches for optimal results.

Understanding the nuances of these inflammatory skin conditions is crucial for identifying a proper approach to treatment and achieving long-term skin health. Let’s explore the key differences, symptoms, and treatment options for dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis, so that you can make more informed decisions about your skin care.

What Is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis serves as an umbrella term for various types of skin inflammation. The word literally means “inflammation of the skin,” and it encompasses numerous conditions that cause redness, swelling, and irritation.³ Common types of dermatitis include:

• Contact dermatitis: Is one of the most prevalent forms and is caused by touching irritants or allergens. Common examples include poison ivy, certain metals in jewelry, harsh chemicals in cleaning products, and some ingredients in cosmetics. The reaction typically appears within hours or days of exposure and remains localized to the contact area.
• Seborrheic dermatitis: Affects oily areas, such as the scalp, face, central chest, armpits, and groin area. There is some debate about the exact causes, but yeast, overactive sebaceous glands (that produce oil and feed yeast), and immune system responses are possible triggers. 
• Atopic dermatitis Is actually a form of eczema (see more below). 

 

The symptoms of dermatitis often include redness, itching, burning sensations, and sometimes blistering or weeping of the affected skin.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema, particularly atopic dermatitis (the most common form), is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often begins in childhood. Eczema typically presents with intense itching that can significantly impact quality of life. The condition affects approximately 10 percent of adults and up to 20 percent of children in the United States.⁴

The hallmark symptoms of eczema include dry, scaly patches of skin that can become red, inflamed, and extremely itchy. These patches commonly appear on the inner elbows, behind the knees, on the hands, and around the neck. In severe cases, the skin may crack, bleed, or develop secondary infections from excessive scratching.

• Eczema often follows a pattern of flare-ups and remissions. Triggers can include:
• Stress
• Certain foods
• Environmental allergens (like dust mites or pet dander)
• Harsh soaps or detergents
• Changes in weather or humidity

 

Many patients with eczema also have other allergic conditions such as asthma or hay fever, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis differs significantly from both dermatitis and eczema in its underlying mechanism. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply rapidly. Instead of the normal two- to three-week skin cell cycle, psoriasis causes new cells to surface in just four to seven days, leading to the characteristic thick, scaly plaques.⁵

Psoriasis can take many forms:

• Plaque psoriasis: The most common type of psoriasis, it causes dry, itchy, raised skin patches (plaques) covered with scales that typically appear on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp. The patches vary in color but are often silvery or white.
• Nail psoriasis: Psoriasis can affect fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, abnormal nail growth, and discoloration. Psoriatic nails might loosen and separate from the nail bed (onycholysis). Severe cases can cause the nail to crumble.
• Guttate psoriasis: Guttate psoriasis primarily affects young adults and children. It is usually triggered by a bacterial infection, such as strep throat. It is marked by small, drop-shaped scales on the trunk, arms, or legs.
• Inverse psoriasis: Inverse psoriasis mainly affects the skin folds of the groin, buttocks, and breasts. It causes smooth patches of inflamed skin that worsen with friction and sweating. Fungal infections may trigger or exacerbate this type of psoriasis.
• Pustular psoriasis: This is a form of the disease that causes clearly defined pus-filled blisters. It can occur in widespread patches or on small areas of the palms or soles.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis: The least common type of psoriasis, it can cover the entire body with a peeling rash that can itch or burn intensely. It can be short-lived (acute) or long-term (chronic).⁶

Key Differences: Dermatitis vs. Eczema vs. Psoriasis

As mentioned, dermatitis is a general term referring to any inflammation of the skin, including eczema. However, psoriasis is a different type of condition that is generally not classified as “dermatitis.” Beyond this distinction, when comparing dermatitis vs. psoriasis vs. eczema, it may be helpful to look at various traits and aspects of each.

Causes: Dermatitis typically results from external triggers or allergens. The same is true for eczema, although it can be a result of an overactive immune system, which is also the main trigger for psoriasis. 

Genetic Factors: Both eczema and psoriasis have strong genetic components, with family history increasing risk. Environmental dermatitis typically does not have a genetic predisposition unless it’s related to an underlying tendency toward allergic reactions.

Appearance: Eczema presents as dry, scaly patches that may weep or crust, particularly during acute flares. Psoriasis appears as thick, raised, well-defined (often symmetrical) plaques with silvery scales and well-defined borders. Dermatitis usually shows redness, swelling, and sometimes blistering in the shape or pattern of the irritant exposure.

Age of Onset: Eczema typically begins in infancy or early childhood, while psoriasis more commonly develops in adults, with peak onset periods between ages 15-25 and 50-60. Dermatitis can occur at any age, depending on the triggering factor.

Location: Eczema favors flexural areas (inner elbows, behind knees),⁷ while psoriasis commonly affects extensor surfaces (outer elbows, front of knees) and the scalp. Dermatitis appears wherever contact with the triggering substance occurs.

Itching Intensity: Eczema is notorious for intense itching that can interfere with sleep and daily activities. Psoriasis may itch but typically less severely than eczema. However, psoriasis is more likely than eczema to cause a burning or stinging sensation. Contact dermatitis itching varies depending on the causative agent.

When Conditions Overlap

Some patients may experience features of both eczema and psoriasis, making diagnosis more challenging. This overlap can occur when someone has a genetic predisposition to both conditions or when external triggers affect someone with psoriasis. Careful evaluation by a qualified dermatologist becomes essential in these complex cases.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment strategies for dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis vary significantly depending on the specific diagnosis. For dermatitis, the primary approach involves identifying and eliminating the triggering factor while providing symptomatic relief with appropriate topical treatments.

For eczema, management focuses on maintaining skin hydration with regular moisturizing, identifying and avoiding triggers, and using anti-inflammatory medications during flares. Topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and newer medications like topical Janus kinase (JAK) enzyme inhibitors can provide relief.⁸ Phototherapy can also be a highly effective treatment.

Psoriasis treatment has evolved dramatically in recent years. Options range from topical treatments like corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs to systemic medications, including biologics that target specific parts of the immune system. Phototherapy is also a common treatment.

While online resources can provide general information, nothing replaces the expertise of a qualified dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Skin conditions can be complex, and what appears to be one condition may actually be another or even a combination of conditions.

If you are struggling with persistent skin symptoms, consulting with a dermatologist in Greenville SC can provide the specialized care you need. They will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the exact nature of your condition. The key to successful management lies in accurate diagnosis followed by a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and lifestyle factors.

Find Expert Dermatological Care Today

Understanding the differences between dermatitis vs. eczema vs. psoriasis empowers patients to seek appropriate care and make informed decisions about their skin health. While these conditions share some similarities, their distinct characteristics, underlying causes, and treatment requirements make professional diagnosis essential.

Remember that skin conditions are highly individual, and what works for one person may not work for another. But, with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most people with inflammatory skin conditions can achieve significant improvement in their symptoms and overall quality of life. 

At Rogers Dermatology, we take a holistic approach to treating skin conditions. Along with a thorough evaluation, we will discuss treatment options that fit with your lifestyle and skin health goals. Contact us today to set up an appointment. 

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References

1. “Eczema Stats,” National Eczema Foundation, retrieved on May 29, 2025, from: https://nationaleczema.org/eczema-facts/. 
2. “Psoriasis Statistics,” National Psoriasis Foundation, December 2022, https://www.psoriasis.org/psoriasis-statistics/. 
3. Radoslaw Spiewak, “Diseases from the Spectrum of Dermatitis and Eczema: Can ‘Omics; Sciences Help with Better Systematics and More Accurate Differential Diagnosis?” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, June 2023, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10342122/. 
4. “What is eczema?” Boston Children’s Hospital, retrieved on May 30, 2025, from: https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/eczema. 
5. “Psoriasis,” U.S. Pharmacist, June 2018, https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/psoriasis. 
6. Mayo Clinic Staff, “Psoriasis,” The Mayo Clinic, February 2025, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840. 
7. Jenna Fletcher, “What is flexural eczema?” Medical News Today, September 2022, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/flexural-eczema. 
8. Paul Ludmann, MS, “JAK inhibitors: What your dermatologist wants you to know,” American Academy of Dermatology Association, September 2024, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/jak-inhibitors.
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