ScienceAugust 11, 2026

atopic

ay-TOP-ik

Definition

Relating to a clinical predisposition toward developing hypersensitive or allergic reactions, such as eczema or dermatitis.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'atopos,' meaning 'out of place' or 'strange.' It entered medical terminology to describe conditions that seem to lack a standard cause or occur in an irregular, hypersensitive way.

In the news

In the context of skincare, atopic refers to skin conditions like atopic dermatitis that probiotics aim to soothe by balancing the skin's microbiome. It highlights the medical necessity for gentle, protective skincare ingredients.

Meet probiotics, the skincare ingredient changing the way we think about skin health

Read the full article ↗

Charlotte Observer

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