What are the causes of atopic dermatitis (eczema)?

The exact cause of eczema is uncertain but is believe to be a combination of genetics and environmental triggers. Several genes have been linked to cause eczema and parents can pass along those genes to their children. For infants and children, other triggers of eczema can come from food or environmental allergies.

Environmental factors that worsen or trigger eczema include:

• Dust mites
• Animal hair
• Food allergies
• Weeds and mold
• Smoke from cigarettes
• Stress or tiredness

Why does eczema skin crack?

Eczema forms when the outer skin layers do not produce enough necessary oils to keep the skin moist. The skin loses water, turns dry and cracks form in the skin. The broken skin barrier also causes an overgrowth in bacteria that can lead to infection and further skin damage. The itching from eczema also causes the patient to scratch the area and increases infection risk.