Psoriasis is a chronic, recurrent skin disorder that affects almost one million Canadians. Physical symptoms of psoriasis can include discomfort and pain, but aside from the physical effects of the disease, psoriasis can also have several serious physiological effects.

People suffering from psoriasis must often manage poor self-esteem, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, depression and thoughts of suicide. (more…)

By J. C. Carroll

Our skin is the first to rebel against the dryness of winter. The forced warm air inside is very dehydrating, while outside, the ice-cold wind of the deep freeze is often deplete of moisture. Winter conditions are even harder on those with skin irritations, like eczema.

“Studies have shown that moisture is not properly retained in the skin of eczema sufferers,” says Dr. Weinstein of the Eczema Society of Canada. “This is due to an impaired skin barrier and to the fact that the upper layer of skin has a reduced lipid content. This means that creams and lotions used by people with eczema should improve the barrier and help retain more moisture in the skin.” (more…)

There are many myths that surround the skin condition eczema. Unfortunately, the ignorance among the general population is tremendous. Better knowledge about this common skin condition goes a long way in increasing empathy and support for those who suffer from it.

Three of the most common myths are:

(1) Eczema is caused by emotional factors.
(2) Eczema is contagious and can easily be passed from person to person.
(3) Eczema can be easily cured with the use of topical corticosteroids. (more…)

Asking questions is an important part of learning everything you can about the skin condition eczema, whether you are a patient of it or have a family member or friend who is. There are certain FAQ’s (frequently asked questions) that are common to most eczema sufferers. Let’s take a look at what some of those are.

What exactly is eczema?
Eczema (sometimes referred to as dermatitis) is a skin condition that can affect both males and females and sufferers can range from the very young to the elderly. Approximately one fifth of all children suffer from eczema as well as one in every twelve adults. Eczema can be mild, moderate or severe. In the mildest case the skin is red, warm, dry and itchy. In moderate to severe cases it can be very inflamed, incredibly itchy, cracked, crusty, scaly, raw, bleeding and weeping fluid (known as wet eczema). (more…)