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Atopic DermatitisLiving with Chronic IllnessSkin Health

6 things that can worsen atopic dermatitis

Dry temperatures, chemicals and other atopic dermatitis triggers to avoid.

Jan 18, 2026
Home page>Dermatology>Atopic Dermatitis>6 things that can worsen atopic dermatitis
Written byJameson Kowalczyk
Medically reviewedbyAnn Wendling, MD, MPHin January 2024
Slide 1
Hot temperatures
Cold temperatures
Wool and synthetic fibers
Chemicals
Stress
Scratching
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Slide 1

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form, and one of the more severe forms, of eczema. People who have atopic dermatitis experience flares of dry, itchy, irritated skin that can be red, scaly, flaky and covered in red bumps. Atopic dermatitis affects an estimated 27 million people in the United States, and affects people of all ages; most people with atopic dermatitis first experience symptoms during childhood.

Healthcare experts do not know the exact cause of atopic dermatitis and there is no cure for the condition. Treatment involves working with a healthcare provider, keeping the skin hydrated, treating irritated skin when it occurs and avoiding triggers, or factors that aggravate symptoms.

The following slides look at a few things that may trigger atopic dermatitis flares or worsen symptoms.

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