Poison oak is a common skin irritation, also called allergic contact dermatitis, which results from contact with a poisonous plant, leaving behind a red, itchy skin rash and small bumps or blisters. According to the Mayo Clinic, poison oak is caused by urushiol, the same irritant also responsible for the poison ivy rash. To help reduce the irritation associated with these rashes, home treatments like colloidal oatmeal baths, cool compresses and anti-itch medications may be helpful.
Oatmeal Baths
Colloidal oatmeal is a skin soothing remedy derived from whole oats, which are ground into a fine powder for soaking. Commercial products like Aveeno oatmeal contain colloidal oatmeal and are a must-have for those with skin rashes caused by psoriasis, eczema, chicken pox or poison oak. Add to a tub of cool water for a natural way to ease itching while moistening and protecting the skin.
Anti-Itch Medications
Anti-itch medications, whether creams, lotions or oral anti-histamines are beneficial for reducing the itching sensations accompanied by poison oak. Products containing menthol and phenol are substances that confuse the skin's nerve endings, offering a cooling sensation to skin irritated by poison oak, according to Robert Rietschel, M.D. Look for anti-itch creams with these ingredients listed on the label. Other treatments recommended by the Mayo Clinic include high-potency corticosteroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, which are available over the counter and are especially helpful when applied within the first few days of the outbreak, reducing inflammation. According to Medline Plus, however, overuse can cause troublesome skin conditions. Calamine lotion, a popular anti-itch remedy is widely used for bug bites and other bothersome inflammation. Benadryl, an oral antihistamine, is another option found at your pharmacy, which works by blocking the effects of histamine in the body.
Cool Compresses
Applying a cool compress, like a moist washcloth to particularly itchy areas is another way to ease the itch associated with poison oak. This remedy can be alternated with medications and other home treatments. According to the Mayo Clinic, cold compresses can be applied frequently, for 15 to 30 minutes at a time.
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