Although eczema and psoriasis are different conditions, they have many symptoms in common and are therefore sometimes difficult to diagnose. Psoriasis is considered an immune-system disorder, while eczema is most often caused by contact with an irritating substance or something to which one is allergic. However, both can involve rashes, redness, lesions, whitish patches and itchy, dry skin that flakes at a moment's notice. Doctors often prescribe the same treatment for both ailments and many doctors are now recommending a good shielding lotion as both eczema and psoriasis treatment.



Prior to the breakthrough of shielding lotion, some of the most common treatments prescribed were unsafe.

* Coal tar reduces inflammation and itching but it doesn't work for everyone and has several drawbacks that make it very uninviting: it has a very strong, unpleasant odor, is messy to use and stains skin and clothing. It is also quite toxic.

* Topical steroids are the most commonly prescribed eczema and psoriasis treatment, but have many detrimental side effects. Thinning of the skin, the appearance of tiny blood vessels and stretch marks are common but these are not the most dangerous. Internal side effects can result in very serious diseases. Also, they tend to become less effective at relieving symptoms with continued use and often cause the same conditions you're trying to treat.

* Antibiotics are also frequently recommended in severe conditions as both eczema and psoriasis can lead to infection. However, antibiotics destroy the good bacteria with the bad thereby damaging the immune system at a time when you need it most.

The safest eczema and psoriasis treatments on the market are those that boost your body's defenses and protect it from the substances causing the condition. Eating a good, balanced diet free of chemicals and preservatives, supplementing with flax seed oil or oil of evening primrose to boost essential fatty acids goes a long way. Protect your skin with a shielding lotion. A good shielding lotion bonds with the surface layer of the skin to form a protective layer that keeps moisture in and chemicals out.

Making these dietary changes and using a shielding lotion will often be all the eczema and psoriasis treatment needed to resolve the condition. It's a good idea to give these a shot before resorting to medications that may be harmful and, in the end, worsen the condition.