Many things exacerbate atopic dermatitis. These include:
- Dry Skin (Xerosis)
- Lotions, which have a high water and low oil content. These lotions worsen xerosis through evaporation and can trigger an eczema flare.
- Excessive bathing without adequately moisturizing the skin afterward
- Low humidity environments,
- Overheating the skin,
- Itchy skin
- Emotional stress,
- Contact allergens / Irritants: Exposing the skin to solvents and detergents, e.g. soaps, shampoos, fragrances, ointments, etc.
- Skin infections (e.g. Impetigo, Staphylococcus aureus, herpes simplex)
Treating the above exacerbating factors will help improve eczema.
**The evidence for food allergens triggering/exacerbating eczema is not strong. However, on an individual basis, if a patient notices any association, they should eliminate the food exposure if it helps them.