Although some children outgrow skin symptoms, nearly three-fourths of children with atopic dermatitis develop hay fever or asthma, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.

Environmental factors can also bring on symptoms of atopic dermatitis in those who have inherited the atopic trait (tendency to develop allergic conditions). People living in dry climates may be more likely to develop the condition.

There may also be a relationship between food allergies and atopic dermatitis. People with atopic dermatitis should consult their doctor about this possible link.

Factors that may trigger atopic dermatitis or make it worse include:

• Emotional stress
  
• Temperature changes and humidity extremes
  
• Bacterial skin infections
  
• Contact with skin irritants, such as wool clothing, laundry detergents and cosmetics

2. Know the potential causes of contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis results from direct skin contact with various irritants (irritant contact dermatitis) or allergens (allergic contact dermatitis). A history of allergies increases the likelihood of allergic contact dermatitis, or ACD. Irritant contact dermatitis, or ICD, is not caused by allergies. However, many of the irritants that cause ICD can be allergens that trigger ACD in sensitive people.

Contact dermatitis may be amongst the easiest forms of eczema to prevent, at least as far as flare-ups are concerned. Irritants and allergens are typically very specific substances that can often be completely avoided if you remain aware of your surroundings.