Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac

Home Treatment

The rash (allergic contact dermatitis) from poison ivy, oak, or sumac generally is mild and can be treated at home. Home treatment for the rash usually helps relieve symptoms rather than speeding up the time it takes the rash to heal.

• If you know you had contact with one of the plants, immediately wash areas of the skin that may have touched the plant. Sometimes the rash can be completely avoided by washing the affected areas with plenty of water within 10 or 15 minutes of contact. Most of the oil is absorbed into the skin in the first 30 minutes.¹ Clothing should also be thoroughly washed right away. Contaminated surfaces should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol.
• To relieve itching and help blisters dry out, apply wet compresses or soak the area in cool water. Antihistamine pills or calamine lotion may help relieve symptoms.
• To prevent infection, try not to scratch the rash. Also, cut your fingernails short to minimize the possibility of opening the skin and spreading bacteria.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: September 25, 2007
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
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