Emerging contaminants and their impacts on atopic dermatitis: Current mechanisms and future perspectives

With the progression of industrialization and urbanization, the diversity and concentration of emerging contaminants (ECs) in the environment have risen concomitantly. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition driven by genetic and environmental factors. Research on the interactions between ECs and AD has expanded significantly in recent decades. This review examines the complex interplay between representative environmental ECs and AD, focusing on mechanisms of immune disruption, including Th2 polarization and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation. Drawing on recent evidence, we further identify critical research gaps to guide future investigations into the impacts of ECs on AD, highlight clinical implications and propose potential strategies for exposure reduction and lifestyle adjustments to prevent and manage AD.