Eczema and food allergies often go hand in hand, especially in early childhood. But new research suggests that the relationship between the two conditions may run deeper than once thought.
Findings presented at the 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) show that the timing, duration and severity of eczema could play a role in whether children eventually outgrow their food allergies.
“Food allergy and eczema often appear together in childhood, but scientists don’t fully understand how one condition affects the other,” said Nicole Koulov, a medical student at the University of Texas and lead presenter of the study. “Our findings highlight that eczema may play a role in shaping the development of oral tolerance to food allergens.”
Researchers analyzed surveys from more than 850 children, ages 0 to 12, who had previously been diagnosed with food allergies but later developed tolerance. Parents provided details on when eczema began, how long it lasted and how severe it was. Severity scores were based on how much skin was affected and the level of treatment needed to control symptoms.
The results showed a clear pattern:
Earlier onset mattered. Children whose eczema began between 4 and 6 months of age were less likely to outgrow food allergies than those whose eczema started in the first three months of life.
Severity made a difference. More severe eczema was strongly linked with a reduced likelihood of developing tolerance.
Duration played a complex role. The odds of outgrowing an allergy dipped with shorter bouts of eczema, rose modestly for eczema lasting 8-10 years, then declined again.
“These findings show that eczema is more than just a coexisting condition — it may directly influence whether children overcome food allergies,” said Dr. Amal Assa’ad, an allergist and study co-author. “The timing and management of eczema could be an important factor in helping children develop tolerance.”
Although eczema itself doesn’t cause food allergies, both involve the immune system and the body’s barrier defenses. Disrupted skin can make it easier for allergens to enter and trigger sensitization, while chronic inflammation may alter how the immune system responds to foods later on.
Experts say the findings underscore the importance of early and consistent eczema management. Maintaining healthy skin through gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and allergy-friendly care could help reduce inflammation and support normal immune development.