From the Guidelines
The most effective treatment for poison ivy is immediate washing with soap and water to remove the urushiol oil, followed by the use of cool compresses or oatmeal baths for symptom relief, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1.
Treatment Steps
- Wash the affected area with soap and water as soon as possible to remove the urushiol oil, which can reduce symptoms by up to 100% if done immediately 1.
- Apply cool compresses or oatmeal baths to relieve local symptoms, as these methods are considered useful for symptom relief 1.
- For severe cases, consult a doctor who may prescribe oral steroids, but the effectiveness of over-the-counter topical steroids and antihistamines is uncertain 1.
Important Considerations
- The extent and severity of symptoms are proportional to the area and duration of exposure to urushiol, the allergic compound in poison ivy 1.
- Prevention is key, including learning to identify poison ivy plants, wearing protective clothing, and washing exposed skin and gear promptly after outdoor activities.
- Avoid scratching the rash to prevent infection, and be aware that the rash typically resolves within 1-3 weeks as the body processes the urushiol oil.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: eczema psoriasis poison ivy, oak, sumac insect bites detergents jewelry cosmetics soaps seborrheic dermatitis temporarily relieves external anal and genital itching The treatment for poison ivy includes hydrocortisone (TOP) to temporarily relieve itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to poison ivy 2.