Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease that chronically affects children and adults worldwide. Environmental exposures, heritable factors, immune dysregulation, and skin barrier malfunction all contribute to the multifactorial nature of AD. It is known that maternal and paternal influences are important predictors for the risk of AD in offspring. This review examines and compares the evidence and mechanisms behind specific maternal and paternal factors that may contribute to the pathogenesis of AD.