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.

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