Eczema and psoriasis are two of the most common chronic skin conditions affecting adults in Singapore. At first glance, they may look similar — both cause red, itchy, inflamed skin that disrupts sleep, confidence, and daily life. But when it comes to treatment, they are not treated the same.
The Key Differences
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
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Root Cause: A weakened skin barrier and an overactive immune response.
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Triggers: Heat, dust mites, certain foods, stress, and Singapore’s hot, humid climate.
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Symptoms: Dryness, relentless itching (often at night), inflamed patches, sometimes oozing skin.
Psoriasis
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Root Cause: An autoimmune condition that speeds up skin cell turnover.
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Triggers: Infections, alcohol, stress, certain medications.
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Symptoms: Thick, scaly plaques, burning sensations, cracked skin, sometimes joint pain.
Because the underlying mechanisms differ, dermatologists use different treatment strategies.
Where Treatments Overlap
Despite different root causes, some first-line approaches are similar:
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Moisturizers: Keeping skin hydrated reduces flares in both conditions.
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Topical steroids or calcineurin inhibitors: Commonly prescribed to calm inflammation.
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Lifestyle adjustments: Avoiding triggers (dust, “heaty” foods, alcohol, stress, harsh climate).
Where Treatments Differ
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Advanced Medications
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Eczema: Dupilumab (Dupixent) and other biologics targeting immune pathways linked to atopic dermatitis.
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Psoriasis: Biologics like secukinumab or ustekinumab that block IL-17 or IL-23 pathways.
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Systemic Therapy
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Eczema: Short-term oral steroids or immunosuppressants for severe flares.
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Psoriasis: Methotrexate, cyclosporine, or acitretin used longer-term to control immune activity.
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Phototherapy
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Used more often for psoriasis patients with widespread plaques.
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Cost of Treatment in Singapore
Managing eczema or psoriasis can become expensive:
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Mild cases: $300–$1,000 per year (moisturizers, GP visits, mild steroid creams).
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Moderate cases: $1,000–$5,000 per year (specialist care, stronger prescriptions, systemic drugs).
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Severe cases: $5,000–$30,000+ annually, especially with biologics like Dupilumab or IL-17 inhibitors.
This high cost is one reason many Singaporeans turn to alternatives beyond conventional medicine.
Emerging Root-Cause Approaches in Singapore
While conventional medicine focuses on calming symptoms, many sufferers are looking for long-term, inside-out solutions. Recent research highlights the gut–skin connection — poor digestion, toxin overload, and chronic inflammation in the gut can worsen both eczema and psoriasis.
That’s why some Singaporeans are exploring supplements like Spiro Plus, a gut-healing protocol designed for chronic eczema and psoriasis. Unlike creams that only mask symptoms, Spiro Plus works internally to:
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Digest: 17 enzymes break down food properly to reduce immune triggers.
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Detox: Spirulina, chlorella, and spinach flush out toxins and support liver health.
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Repair: Skin-targeted probiotics and blue spirulina help rebuild gut lining.
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Regenerate: Antioxidants calm immune activity, reducing flare-ups over time.
Many users report reduced itching, better sleep, and fewer flare-ups after 2–3 months. While it’s not a replacement for medical treatment, it offers a natural, steroid-free option for those seeking lasting relief.
Final Takeaway
Eczema and psoriasis are not treated the same — their root causes and advanced therapies differ. But they do share overlapping strategies like moisturization and anti-inflammatory care.
If you’re in Singapore and struggling with either condition, consult a dermatologist for diagnosis. And if you’re tired of the cycle of steroids and expensive biologics, exploring gut-focused approaches like Spiro Plus may help you address the root cause, not just the surface.
FAQ
Are eczema and psoriasis treated the same?
No. While both conditions involve inflammation and may use moisturizers and steroids, eczema is linked to barrier dysfunction while psoriasis is autoimmune-driven. Advanced treatments (biologics, systemic drugs) differ between the two.
What treatments overlap between eczema and psoriasis?
Both conditions benefit from daily moisturizers, topical steroids, and lifestyle adjustments. However, biologic drugs and systemic therapies differ depending on whether it’s eczema or psoriasis.
Are there natural alternatives?
Yes. In Singapore, some sufferers use gut-focused supplements like Spiro Plus to target inflammation from the inside out, supporting digestion, detoxification, and immune balance.