There are risk factors that can make someone susceptible to getting eczema. Some people are prone to atopic dermatitis, because they have a sensitive immune system. People who have close family members with eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to have similar problems related to an immune system response to allergens. When a person has eczema, asthma, or allergies, their immune systems overreact to harmless substances. This sensitivity of the immune system is hereditary.

Atopic dermatitis on hands is commonly caused when a person handles a substance that causes inflammation of the skin on the hands. Atopic dermatitis on hands is sometimes called hand eczema. People can be susceptible to atopic dermatitis on the hands if they handle chemicals, detergents, or other allergens in the workplace.

Dry skin is not only a symptom of eczema, but skin that has become dehydrated is at greater risk of outbreaks of eczema. Consuming water and keeping skin moisturized helps reduce the risk of flare-ups. Winter months are harder on the skin. The skin tends to be dry due to a lack of humidity in buildings. Dry heating systems can dry out the skin and increase the person’s chance of developing an eczema flare-up. Humidifiers may help prevent or alleviate dry skin that is prone to eczema.

Aging causes changes in the skin that can lead to outbreaks of eczema. Some types of eczema target seniors. Some people feel that aging skin is less able to hold in moisture and is therefore prone to eczema. Asteatotic eczema is one example of a type of eczema that is most common in the elderly.

Taking hot baths or showers can dry out a person’s skin. Therefore, a routine of using hot water can make someone more prone to eczema outbreaks. This can be counteracted by applying moisturizer after bathing.
Some experts believe that eating certain foods can worsen eczema or increase a person’s risk of a flare-up of atopic dermatitis. The foods that some people claim as agitating the condition are dairy product, nuts, seafood, wheat, eggs, and soy.

Having an oily scalp is thought to be a risk factor for seborrheic dermatitis, also known as scalp eczema. Seborrhheic dermatitis can cause patches of pink or red, dandruff, and flaking or peeling skin on the scalp.
Childhood may be the most influential risk factor for eczema. Infants with eczema typically outgrow their skin conditions by the time they are three years old. Some continue to have outbreaks of eczema until adulthood. A small percentage of adolescents with eczema continue through adulthood with bouts of eczema. As the child ages, the chance of continued problems with eczema decreases.