Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that results in dry, scaly and itchy skin. Eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis and is a general term for itchy and inflamed skin. These conditions can be triggered by environmental or weather-related factors such as heat or sweating, cold weather that causes dry skin, and humidity. Listed below are some of the worst cities and climatic conditions to live in with atopic dermatitis and eczema.

1. Hot humid cities
Cities such as New Orleans (Louisiana), and Jacksonville (Florida), are ranked among the top cities in the country for high humidity. However, hot, humid weather can trigger itching and other eczema symptoms. Keeping your skin dry, especially from sweat, is necessary as the salts present in sweat can cause itching. Limit your time in the air conditioner in the summer to prevent it from drying out and aggravating your condition.

2. Hot and dry cities
Cities such as Phoenix (Arizona), and Las Vegas (Nevada) are among the worst cities to live in with atopic dermatitis and eczema in the country because of their dry desert-like climate. This dries out the skin and aggravates skin conditions such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. Hence a few precautions that can be taken are avoiding prolonged exposure to chlorine such as that in chlorinated swimming pools as it can make your condition worse. Also, ensure that you use a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free sunscreen to prevent flare-ups.

3. Cities with high pollution
Charlotte (North Carolina), and Fresno (California) could also be listed among the worst cities to live in with atopic dermatitis and eczema as they have poor air quality due to a number of factors. Pollutants and other chemicals present in the air can trigger or worsen symptoms of eczema and atopic dermatitis.

4. Cold dry cities
Cities that experience cold, harsh winters such as Denver (Colorado) might also not be good places for individuals with atopic dermatitis and eczema as cold air dries out the skin and triggers itching. If you do live in these cities or need to relocate there and suffer from these skin conditions you should use plenty of moisturizer to hydrate your skin.

A few others on the list of worst cities to live in with atopic dermatitis and eczema are:

1. Minneapolis, Minnesota
2. Chicago, Illinois
3. Boston, Massachusetts
4. Salt Lake City, Utah
5. San Diego, California

Most often we are not able to choose the place where we live. We need to live in a certain area for work or study. However, if you reside in any of the above-listed cities, taking a few precautions can help you manage your condition, and find relief from symptoms and prevent flare-ups.