It might seem surprising that a neurodevelopmental condition like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) could be linked to a skin condition — or that the reverse could be true. However, research shows that people living with ADHD are more likely to develop atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema). The opposite is also true: People living with atopic dermatitis have a higher risk of developing ADHD.

In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between eczema and ADHD, along with tips for managing both.

Can ADHD Cause Skin Problems?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning it involves differences in how the brain grows and functions — particularly in areas that control attention, impulse regulation, and activity levels. ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions diagnosed in childhood, though many people aren’t diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood, often after noticing ongoing challenges with focus, organization, or emotional regulation.

Research suggests ADHD is linked to a higher risk of developing certain skin conditions, including dermatitis, acne, and eczema. Eczema and dermatitis belong to a group of health conditions called atopic (allergy-related) diseases. In addition to atopic skin conditions, ADHD is associated with atopic diseases like asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

Understanding the link between ADHD and allergic diseases could shed some light on experiences of people living with these conditions and provide more tools to better manage them.

Causes and Risk Factors Behind the Association

The relationship between ADHD and eczema has been well studied since the early 1990s. One long-term study in Germany followed a group of children from birth through age 11 and found that those who had atopic eczema early in life (before age 4) were significantly more likely to show signs of ADHD in early childhood. However, this link was not seen for children who developed eczema later or were diagnosed with ADHD at an older age.

Other studies from the United States, Taiwan, and Korea also observed similar findings, in which children and adolescents with more severe eczema had a higher risk of ADHD.

Researchers have proposed some theories that may explain the apparent association between eczema and ADHD.

Sleep Disturbance

One factor that may help explain the association between atopic dermatitis and ADHD is sleep disturbance. Sleep disturbance due to itching is very common among people with eczema, and poor sleep is also common in those who have been diagnosed with ADHD.

In one large U.S. study, children with severe atopic dermatitis who slept well only zero to three nights per week were found to have significantly higher odds of being diagnosed with ADHD. These children were at an increased risk of ADHD compared to those with mild eczema.

These findings suggest that frequent nighttime itching and scratching may interfere with sleep quality — and that chronic sleep disruption could affect brain development in ways that increase the risk of ADHD.

Prolonged Stress Response

In a focus group study published in 2023, all participants said they experience worsening eczema symptoms when stressed. Heightened stress is also a known risk factor for ADHD. The stress response can also contribute to sleep disturbance among people living with eczema.

Inflammation

Another theory is that inflammation caused by eczema negatively affects the developing brain, which may lead to the development of ADHD. However, more research is necessary to confirm this theory.

Other Risk Factors

An earlier study identified additional risk factors. Children with eczema and a history of anemia, headaches, and obesity had a greater chance of developing ADHD. This finding was similar in adults with eczema.

Living With Eczema and ADHD

Managing both eczema and ADHD can come with unique challenges, especially for children and adults who experience symptoms like impulsivity or difficulty following routines. For example, sticking to a regular skin care routine or remembering to take medications may be harder with ADHD.

Effectively treating eczema may also support mental well-being. Itching, sleep disruption, and discomfort can take a toll on mood and focus — so managing symptoms is important for both body and mind.

Below are some strategies that may help you manage eczema and ADHD more easily.

Practice Regular Skin Care

A consistent skin care routine can help prevent eczema flare-ups or reduce symptoms. Try to take lukewarm baths and apply moisturizer right afterward — while your skin is still warm and slightly damp. This helps seal in moisture and protect your skin barrier. Applying any prescribed topical medications as directed is also an important step in managing eczema.

A good eczema treatment plan should improve a person’s sleep, and this may relieve some ADHD symptoms. However, if symptoms of ADHD remain unchanged or worsen, work with your healthcare team to explore other treatment options.

Improve Your Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep can help reduce the impact of eczema and may support focus and emotional regulation. Creating a consistent bedtime routine, practicing relaxation techniques, and improving sleep hygiene (like turning off screens before bed) may help. These steps can also support ADHD symptom management.

Ask your healthcare provider about medications or topical treatments that relieve itching and help you fall asleep more easily.

Learn more ways to help your child cope with sleep issues.

Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality and has been shown to support attention and mood in people with ADHD. Creating a weekly movement routine — even gentle walks or stretching — can make a difference.

Avoid Eczema and ADHD Triggers

Avoiding eczema triggers is key to preventing flare-ups. Everyone’s eczema is different. What may trigger eczema in one person may not trigger symptoms in someone else. Common triggers include:

• Fragranced or dyed products
• Certain fabrics (like wool or synthetic materials)
• Hot or cold weather
• Sweating
• Some laundry detergents

Some foods and additives may also worsen ADHD symptoms for some people. These include caffeine, sugar, and artificial food dyes or preservatives. Try tracking how your symptoms respond to certain foods and talk with your doctor about dietary options.

Managing ADHD

ADHD is often managed with a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, counseling, and educational support. For children, the initial treatment plan may include training parents or caregivers in behavioral strategies and using behavioral interventions at school. If symptoms continue or get worse, healthcare providers may recommend adding medication alongside ongoing therapy.

Lifestyle changes to help you or your loved ones manage ADHD include:

• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
• Getting regular physical activity
• Establishing consistent sleep habits
• Following a daily routine
• Using tools to stay organized
• Reducing distractions when possible

There is no cure for ADHD, but many people find that symptoms improve over time with the right combination of support and treatment. Managing both ADHD and eczema can help you feel more in control, support your overall well-being, and improve your quality of life.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MyEczemaTeam, the social network for people with eczema, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with eczema.

Do you have eczema and ADHD? Is your child experiencing these two conditions? What tips do you have for others? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on MyEczemaTeam.