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The exact cause of eczema is unknown. However, scientists believe that the disease has a genetic component, because it often runs in families. For example, children who have relatives with atopic dermatitis, asthma or hay fever are at a 50 percent risk of developing one or more of these conditions, according to the National Eczema Association for Science and Education. The odds are even higher if both of a child’s parents have one or more of these conditions.

Genetics is not the only factor to cause eczema. Some of the environmental factors known to trigger eczema include exposure to various skin irritants (e.g., solvents such as gasoline) in the environment, perspiration, and various allergens (e.g., pollen, pet dander, foods). Food allergies that trigger eczema are more likely in children than in adults.

Other eczema triggers include:

• Bacteria
• Clothing
• Illness (e.g., colds, infection)
• Jewelry
• Physical or mental stress
• Rubbing the skin
• Soaps, detergents, lotions, bubble bath 
• Weather (hot, cold, humid or dry)
• Hot baths or showers
• Chlorine
• Acidic foods (e.g., tomatoes, citrus fruits)
• Tobacco smoke