Background Occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) is a common occupational disease. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a known risk factor for OCD. Objectives To determine the prevalence of previously diagnosed AD among young workers with recognized OCD and assess its impact on OCD prognosis. Methods A retrospective cohort study. A questionnaire was sent to 6251 workers with recognized OCD who were under 35 years at notification (response rate: 47%). Of the respondents, 2392 answered a question about previous doctor‐diagnosed AD and were included in the study. Eczema severity, occupational consequences and quality of life were examined using statistical analyses comparing workers with and without previously diagnosed AD. Results The prevalence of previously diagnosed AD was 41.8% (95% CI: 39.8–43.8). Women had a higher AD prevalence, and workers with AD reported OCD at a younger age. Workers with AD reported more frequent and severe eczema symptoms and had a higher risk of OCD negatively affecting job and occupation choices. Health‐related quality of life was more adversely affected in workers with AD. Conclusions AD significantly impacts severity and has long‐term consequences for young people with OCD. Targeted prevention strategies need to be developed.