How do I treat poison oak or ivy?
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison
sumac, all members of the plant genus
Toxicodendron, are the three most common plants
that cause contact dermatitis in America.
Captain John Smith was the first to report
an allergic disease in America
related to these plants. Approximately 85
percent of the population will develop an
allergic reaction to poison ivy, oak, or sumac
if exposed to them. Treatment includes
prevention by wearing long sleave shirts and
pants, using skin protectant creams such as Poison Ivy
Block before being exposed to the plants.
Washing with a strong soap or Technu which
washes off the resins of the plants after
exposure to the plants can be helpful.. Hydrocortisone 1%, Sarnol HC or
Aloe Cort Cream in addition to
over-the-counter oral benedryl can also relieve
the itch.
All products should be used as directed on the product container. Any product that causes irritation should be discontinued. The information provided at BuySkinCare.com is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a dermatologist or your physician.
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