A new study published in JAMA Dermatology suggests a link between the amount of sodium in the diet and the incidence of atopic dermatitis[4]. The research suggests that sodium may play a role in inflammatory skin diseases, a finding that dermatologists have long questioned[4]. Sodium thus appears to be a potential factor that may not only increase the risk of atopic dermatitis, but also worsen its manifestations[4]. This study represents a change in the view of the relationship between diet and skin disease, as little attention has been paid to this association until now. The findings suggest that controlling dietary sodium intake could be one aspect of a comprehensive approach to the treatment and prevention of atopic dermatitis. The research thus opens up new possibilities for patients with this chronic skin disease.