1. Leaves of Three, Let Them Be
Identifying poison oak is the first thing you should do to avoid exposure. The leaves are similar to those grown on an oak tree with rounded tips, and they are slightly larger than poison ivy leaves. Three leaflets appear on a poison oak plant, which grow in clusters of three, five or seven. Poison oak grows on vines or shrubs on the East and West coasts. It grows in sandy soils or near lakes in the East, while Western poison oak grows in low-lying areas near water. Other identifying marks of the plant include leaves with short, hairy undersides and fuzzy, white berries. Pay special attention to plants and leaves if you live in a wooded area. When learning to recognize poison oak, remember the old saying, "Leaves of three, let them be."
2. Understand the Source
Poison oak contains a non-drying oil called urushiol that can stick to any surface, including fur, skin, tools or patio furniture. The colorless or yellow oil can ooze from the leaves, stems or roots of the plant, but turn brown or black once exposed to air. Urushiol is the active component that causes the itchy reaction, also known as contact dermatitis. Burning the poison oak leaves is not helpful. The urushiol oil can travel in the air through fire, therefore increasing the likelihood of exposure.
3. Take Cover While Outdoors
Wear long pants, long sleeves, boots and gloves if you have to work outdoors in the vicinity of poison oak. You can use herbicides for weeds or pests to kill poison oak. However, if you don't want to use chemicals, wear your gloves and other protective clothing, then carefully dig out the plants from their roots. Dispose of the poison oak in sturdy plastic lawn and leaf bags. Keep children and pets away until you have safely removed the plants. As an added layer of protection, try barrier skin creams with bentoquatum to block the poison oak from attacking you. These are found at a pharmacy, or as a prescription from your dermatologist.
4. Cleaning Combats Poison Oak Effects
Another great way to avoid poison oak is to wash all surfaces that come in contact with it. After hiking or camping in the woods, scrub your boots or shoes with warm water and soap before taking them indoors. Wash your clothing with warm water and detergent or soap to prevent the spread of poison oak throughout the home. Repeat the cleaning process several times for several days to get rid of the oils.
5. What to Do If It's Too Late
Reactions cause rashes or blisters that appear on the skin within 48 hours. If you know that you have touched poison oak leaves, wash with cold water and soap during the first 30 minutes of exposure. Calamine lotion reduces itching, while prescription cortisone cream stops the allergic reaction from worsening.
