Myths and Misconceptions

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions. Yet there are many myths and misconceptions about the disease.¹

Myth: Atopic dermatitis is contagious

Atopic dermatitis is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else through physical contact. The condition is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.¹

Myth: Atopic dermatitis is the same as eczema

People in the atopic dermatitis community often use the term “eczema” to refer to their condition. However, “eczema” actually includes a number of skin conditions that cause redness, inflammation, and dry, flaky skin.²

Atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema. In fact, it is the most common form of eczema. It is sometimes called atopic eczema.²

Myth: Children with atopic dermatitis will always outgrow it

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition, and there is currently no cure. Some children may see their symptoms improve or disappear with age. But many people will need to manage them throughout their lives. Effective treatment and lifestyle changes can help control symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.³

Myth: If a parent has atopic dermatitis, it will be passed down to their children

While having a parent with eczema increases your risk of developing the condition due to genetic factors, it is not guaranteed that you will inherit it. Eczema is caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Many people with a family history of eczema will never develop it. Others may develop it without any family history.¹

Understanding your risk for eczema can help you take proactive steps to manage potential symptoms. But it does not always mean it can be avoided.¹

Myth: Food allergies are the cause of atopic dermatitis

Food does not cause atopic dermatitis, but it can trigger and worsen symptoms for some people. Common triggers include dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten. Keeping a food diary and working with a healthcare provider can help you identify any dietary triggers.⁴

Allergy experts may not recommend a restrictive or elimination diet because research suggests that avoiding food allergens does not improve eczema. Also, excessively restrictive diets may lead to weight loss, poor growth, and vitamin deficiency, especially in kids. People with a suspected food allergy should talk to their doctor and get nutritional counseling from a dietitian.⁴

Myth: Poor hygiene causes atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is not caused by poor hygiene. While it is important to keep the skin clean and moisturized to manage symptoms, the root cause of eczema lies in the immune system and the skin’s inability to retain moisture.^2,5

Over-washing or using harsh soaps can actually worsen the condition by stripping the skin of its natural oils. However, some research shows that bathing daily with plain water and mild soap if needed can improve eczema symptoms.^2,5,6

Myth: The itch is all in your mind

“Just stop scratching” is not useful advice for people with atopic dermatitis. While scratching can lead to thickened skin (lichenification) and can increase the risk of infection, it is not easy to stop.⁷

Researchers are trying to understand the itch-scratch cycle. In this cycle, the skin feels itchy, which leads to scratching, which then causes the skin to feel even more itchy.⁷

Research exploring the processes that cause itch in eczema is ongoing. But some research has identified that a certain type of protein made by immune system cells (called IL-31) plays a key role in itch and inflammation. Experts are exploring new treatments that target this protein.⁸

Treatments that can help with the itch include topical medicines, antihistamines, wet wraps, and moisturizers. Keeping your nails short can also limit the damage that scratching can do to the skin.⁷