The Role of Environmental Allergens in Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is more than just dry, itchy skin—it’s an inflammatory skin condition influenced by genetics, the immune system, and environmental factors. For many people, environmental allergens play a key role in triggering flare-ups. Understanding how allergens impact your skin can help you take better control of your eczema.

How Do Environmental Allergens Affect Eczema?

Environmental allergens trigger an immune response, leading to skin inflammation and irritation. Common allergens that worsen eczema include:

• Dust mites – Found in bedding, carpets, and upholstery.
• Pet dander – Skin flakes from cats, dogs, and other animals.
• Pollen – Seasonal allergens from trees, grass, and weeds.
• Mold – Grows in damp areas like bathrooms and basements.
• Airborne irritants – Smoke, pollution, and strong fragrances can trigger skin sensitivity.

Signs Your Eczema Might Be Triggered by Allergens

✔️ Your symptoms worsen in certain seasons (pollen allergies).
✔️ You experience flares after exposure to pets, dust, or mold.
✔️ Your eczema improves when you change environments (e.g., traveling to a different location).
✔️ Allergy testing shows sensitivity to environmental allergens.

How to Reduce Environmental Allergy Triggers

Since allergens are everywhere, the goal is minimizing exposure:

• For Dust Mites:
  • Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers.
  • Wash bedding in hot water weekly.
  • Reduce carpeting and heavy drapes.
• For Pet Allergies:
  • Keep pets out of the bedroom.
  • Bathe pets regularly to reduce dander.
• For Pollen Allergies:
  • Keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons.
  • Shower and change clothes after spending time outside.
• For Mold Allergies:
  • Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%.
  • Clean damp areas with mold-resistant products.
• For Airborne Irritants:
  • Avoid cigarette smoke and strong perfumes.
  • Use HEPA air purifiers to filter out allergens.

FAQ: Environmental Allergens and Eczema

Q: Can allergy shots (immunotherapy) help eczema?
A: In some cases, treating allergies with immunotherapy may reduce eczema severity, especially in patients with allergic asthma or hay fever.

Q: Should I get tested for allergies if I have eczema?
A: If you notice eczema flares linked to certain environments, allergy testing may help identify triggers.

Q: Can seasonal allergies make eczema worse?
A: Yes! Pollen and airborne allergens can trigger both nasal allergies and eczema flares.

A Personal Story

One of my patients, Alex, had eczema that flared up every spring. Before he saw me, he began taking antihistamines, using a HEPA filter, and showering after outdoor exposure, his eczema improved dramatically, until all his allergies became worse. His skin was covered with rash and he could no longer sleep. We started Dupixent and allergy shots, and his skin has been 100% clear since.

If you suspect allergens are making your eczema worse, reducing exposure could make a big difference. Talk to your doctor about allergy testing and strategies to keep your skin healthy!

What are you waiting for?  If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.

Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies.  Buy it NOW!

Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.