As winter settles in, it brings more than just cozy moments and holiday cheer—it often exacerbates skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Both are common and can present uniquely on melanated skin, leading to challenges in identification and treatment. This article breaks down what these conditions are, their causes, how they appear on Black skin, and expert-backed tips to manage them.
Understanding Eczema
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that often runs in families. According to Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd, a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist, eczema is part of a group of conditions known as atopic diseases, which also includes asthma and hay fever. It thrives in dry, irritated areas, often manifesting as relentless itching in the folds of the skin.
Isabelle McLeod, an aesthetician and founder of Isabelle McLeod Aesthetics, describes eczema as a persistent itch that feels almost like a burn. On darker skin tones, eczema can appear as dark gray, brown, or purple patches instead of the typical red, often leaving behind dark spots due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after healing.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis, on the other hand, is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches to appear, commonly on the elbows, knees, or scalp. It occurs when the body’s immune system causes skin cells to regenerate faster than they can shed. McLeod calls psoriasis the “drama queen” of skin conditions, noting its tendency to show up as thick, silvery plaques in prominent areas.
For people with melanated skin, psoriasis often presents as scaly brown or gray spots, which can be mistaken for other conditions.
Causes of Eczema and Psoriasis
Eczema is frequently triggered by stress, environmental irritants, or a compromised skin barrier. Dr. Nicole Lee, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology, explains that protein deficiencies in the skin can lead to an impaired barrier, allowing inflammatory markers to cause flare-ups.
Psoriasis, meanwhile, can be triggered by infections, stress, extreme weather, alcohol, smoking, and even yeast overgrowth in the body. Dr. Woolery-Lloyd notes that psoriasis is linked to autoimmune conditions and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Caring for Eczema and Psoriasis
For Eczema
- Avoid Irritants: Dr. Geeta Yadav, founder of FACET Dermatology, advises steering clear of beauty products with fragrances, dyes, or preservatives, as these can trigger flare-ups. Look for products labeled hypoallergenic and designed for sensitive skin.
- Hydrate Your Skin: During winter, extra hydration is essential. Gentle, barrier-supporting products help lock in moisture and protect your skin.
For Psoriasis
- Use Fragrance-Free Products: As with eczema, it’s vital to avoid irritants. Moisturizing products can help manage the dryness and scaling associated with psoriasis.
- Seek Professional Advice: If symptoms worsen, consult a dermatologist to develop a tailored treatment plan.
Products Recommended by Experts
Dr. Yadav and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd recommend products that nourish and protect the skin barrier. Some of their top picks include:
- CeraVe
- Cetaphil
- La Roche-Posay
- Seta
- Filavino
These brands are known for their gentle formulations, which can alleviate discomfort while preventing further irritation.
Track Your Skin’s Behavior
Keeping a skin diary can be an invaluable tool in managing eczema and psoriasis. By tracking patterns, you and your dermatologist can better understand triggers and create a more effective treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
Eczema and psoriasis may share similarities but require different care approaches. Understanding their unique characteristics on melanated skin is key to effective treatment. With expert advice, a good skincare routine, and the right products, you can keep these conditions under control and enjoy healthy, hydrated skin even in the harsh winter months.
