So, you've been having some problems with your skin lately huh? Maybe it's red and itchy or you've got these really funky scaly patches that seem to have come from out of no where. They're most likely either annoying you or making you nervous (Eew! What IS this!?!?!?!?) and you're definitely feeling really self-conscious.

First, stop and ask if anything has changed recently in your life... have you had any unusual stress? Did you move? Change jobs? Are you getting married? Getting divorced? Did you start using a new laundry detergent or some new soap or bath gel? It may not be something that you think is obvious so take a minute and really think back if something, anything – however tiny – has changed in your world. Do you have a parent or blood relative who has allergies? Have they ever been treated for a skin condition that seems to be like yours?

The quickest and easiest thing may be for you to see your doctor so he or she can give you a definitive answer but here are some quick guide lines that may help put your mind at ease:

Could it be eczema?
Do you have areas of your skin that have been itching like mad and after scratching furiously you now have red, irritated patches of skin? Does your skin feel dry and hot or maybe it's all cracked and raw and bleeding? Do you have a reaction from a ring or other piece of jewelry? Do you suffer from asthma or hay fever? If any of this sounds familiar then it's possible you've got eczema. Learn more about eczema and find ways to make your daily life better.

Could it be psoriasis?
Do you have patches of really unattractive red, scaly skin? Are the patches dry and silvery in color? Does it always seem to happen at a really bad time (you've got an important presentation to give or a special family function)? Maybe you've noticed something odd with either your fingernails or toenails. Do you have more noticeable problems in the winter time?

If you've answered yes to some or all of these questions, you've most likely got psoriasis. Learn more about psoriasis and how Dermarest® can help make your condition manageable.