Eczema (atopic dermatitis) typically appears as dry, red or discoloured, intensely itchy patches, often in the bends of the elbows and knees, on the hands, or on the face. It frequently starts in childhood and is linked to a sensitive skin barrier, allergies and asthma.
Psoriasis is an immune-driven condition that speeds up skin cell turnover, producing raised, sharply edged plaques with a silvery-white scale, commonly on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. It can also affect the nails and, in some people, the joints (psoriatic arthritis).
The two can look similar, and only a clinician can confirm which you have, sometimes with a skin examination or biopsy. Treatments differ, so getting the right diagnosis matters. See a doctor if itchy or scaly patches persist, spread, or affect your sleep, work or confidence. This is general information and not a substitute for a personal assessment.