From the Guidelines
Washing the affected area with soap and water as soon as possible is the most effective treatment for poison ivy, as it can remove up to 100% of the urushiol oil if done immediately after contact. This is supported by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid, which recommends washing the exposed area with soap and water or a commercially available decontamination product as soon as exposure to poison ivy is recognized 1.
Key Treatment Steps
- Wash the affected area with soap and water as soon as possible to remove the urushiol oil
- Consider using a commercial decontamination product if available
- Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone cream, may not be effective in improving local symptoms, as demonstrated by a randomized, blinded trial involving 92 cases of Toxicodendron dermatitis 1
- Cool compresses or oatmeal baths may be considered for relief of local symptoms, although their effectiveness is uncertain 1
- Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine or cetirizine, may also be considered to alleviate itching and inflammation, although their usefulness is uncertain 1
Additional Considerations
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection
- Wear clean cotton clothing to reduce irritation
- Seek medical attention if signs of infection develop, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or pus
- For severe cases with widespread rash or facial involvement, consult a doctor who may prescribe oral steroids like prednisone 1
From the Research
Treatment Options
- Local treatment is sufficient for mild to moderate cases of poison ivy dermatitis 2
- Systemic corticosteroids can be added in more severe cases 2
Characteristics of Poison Ivy Dermatitis
- Eruptions caused by poison ivy are almost always a form of allergic contact dermatitis 2
- Characteristic streak- or line-like appearance 2
- Usually clear within one to three weeks unless there is continued exposure to the allergen 2
Current State of Treatment and Prevention
- Approximately 50% to 75% of the US adult population is clinically sensitive to poison ivy, oak, and sumac 3
- There lacks an entirely effective method for prevention and treatment, besides complete avoidance 3
- Ongoing investigations are being conducted to develop a vaccine (immunotherapy) for poison ivy, oak, and sumac dermatitis 3