Poison Oak & Ivy Treatments

The rash of poison oak is caused by the leaves on the Poison Oak bush. Urushiol is the surface oil emitted from the leaves, which causes an allergic reaction to most people. Only 15-30% of people experience no irritation once in contact with the oil. The poison or urushiol can be washed from the skin if it is within a short period, but prolonged exposure will cause the oil to absorb, thus causing the allergic reaction.

The best thing to prevent a reaction in the first place is to wear a block such as Oak-N-Ivy Tecnu, a waterless barrier that shields the oil from the skin, clothes and other items such as tools. However if the preventative precautions are not taken, Oak-N-Ivy Corticool is useful to help alleviate swelling and inflammation by cooling the area upon contact. Many times, corticosteroids can cause discoloration to the skin, therefore cortisone-free products are best to use, such as Oak-N-Ivy CalaGel, which leaves an invisible skin protectant to help treat the allergic reaction.