Best Poison Ivy Treatments in 2022

Last update: January 12, 2023

Are hot showers good for poison ivy?

There is some debate on whether hot showers are good for poison ivy. Some people believe that the heat from the shower can help to draw the poison out of the skin. Others believe that hot showers can actually make the poison ivy worse. If you are considering taking a hot shower to help with your poison ivy, you should speak to your doctor first.

Does apple cider vinegar help with poison ivy?

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that apple cider vinegar is effective in treating poison ivy. However, some people may find relief from the itch by applying a vinegar-soaked cloth to the affected area.

Does hand sanitizer help poison ivy?

There is no one definitive answer to this question. Some people swear by using hand sanitizer to help relieve the itch and irritation of poison ivy, while others find that it does nothing to help. If you are considering using hand sanitizer to help with poison ivy, it is important to read the label carefully to make sure that it will not further irritate your skin.

Does Laundry Detergent get rid of poison ivy?

Yes, laundry detergent can get rid of poison ivy. The sap from poison ivy can cause an itchy, blistering rash. Laundry detergent can remove the sap from clothing and skin.


Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser, First Step in Poison Oak and Ivy Treatment, 32 Ounces Review:


Being a geologist, I must work on landslides that are covered in poison oak, which is unfortunate. Tecnu is beautiful and efficient. Because of a unique patent, it has no rivals (until the patent runs out, many years from now). Never even try the outdated useless cures (such as calamine lotion). The complex chemical compounds in poison-oak juice are really dissolved by tecnu. This is a sizable, affordable package. I put it in tiny plastic bottles about the size of my thumb so I can carry them around in my trousers pockets. When I unexpectedly come across poison oak in the field, I place it on my wrists, forearms, and in between my fingers. After exposure, if you can, quickly wash with water (in a nearby creek or use a hose). The poison oak juice is mechanically removed in a limited amount. After drying your skin with a towel, apply Tecnu. Dry it out. After dinner, take a shower and gently wash the areas of your skin that were exposed to the poison oak. Avoid using a brush to scrub in the shower as this may cause microscopic tears where the poison oak will grow. After getting out of the shower, gently pat yourself dry with a towel before reapplying Tecnu. To avoid scratching yourself when you sleep at night, file your fingernails smooth. Utilize Tecnu right away. Never (naively) wait three days since you'll get a terrible full-blown case of poison oak and could need to go to the hospital or ER. Even if you cannot feel any itching or see anything, use Tecnu often. Apply it repeatedly to the areas of your skin that may have tiny, undetectable scrapes there (often the inside of the wrist). Typically, poison oak will not penetrate thick skin (like the palm of your hand). Apply Tecnu in those areas of your body where your skin is the thinnest. Yes, you will still have a (moderate) case of poison oak, but Tecnu knocks it down, and within a week, you are back to normal (=the voice of experience from a geologist who has had poison oak hundreds of times... but is now completely prepared with Tecnu).



Tecnu Extreme Poison Ivy and Oak Scrub, Removes Poisonous Plant Oils That Cause Rash and Itching, 4 Ounces Review:


First of all, I almost never write reviews, but I absolutely had to write one for this product. I am hypersensitive to poison ivy, and every time I’ve ever had it I’ve had to go to the doctor, get a shot, and go on a round of steroids to get rid of it. This last time, it flared up over the weekend and I couldn’t get into see the doctor until Monday. It had already spread all over my whole body, and I felt like I was on fire from the itchiness and blisters. I put cortisone cream everywhere and was rotating ice packs trying to get some relief with little result. I was so uncomfortable I couldn’t even sleep. I desperately went into the drug store, and asked the pharmacist if there was anything he could recommend. He directed me to this product. I went home, and immediately took a shower and scrubbed down from head to toe. After I dried off and got dressed, I IMMEDIATELY noticed a HUGE difference in the itchiness—It had practically vanished. The next day I repeated the process and noticed that the redness and blisters had significantly decreased. It improved so much I canceled my doctors appointment. By the end of the week it was completely gone. I would give this 100 stars if I could.



Tecnu Calagel Anti-Itch Gel, Maximum Strength Itch Relief for Rashes, Poison Ivy, Bug Bites, Stings and Minor Burn Relief, 6 oz Review:


This stuff is quite effective, and I have used it before. The gel is simple to apply, although it appears to have an aroma now, which is okay but I would prefer fragrance-free. I'm shocked this bottle didn't break because it arrived in such horrible shape. It was placed by the shipper in a sizable bubble envelope before being sent. It might have simply been protected with a thin layer of cushioning.



Sarna Original Anti-Itch Lotion for Dry Skin, Insect Bites, Sunburn, Poison Ivy/Oak/Sumac, 7.5 Ounce Review:


My legs often itch because I have sensitive, dry skin, especially at night. I was spending so much time rubbing my legs that I was having difficulties falling asleep. Although I've tried them, moisturizing creams are ineffective. Sarna is a huge help with the scratching! My boyfriend complains about the menthol smell, but it's better than making him scratch all night long. Although it tingles, it is not unpleasant. Relief comes in fairly soon and lasts for some time. I've also tried the Sarna Sensitive, which works and is odorless but lacks the tingling sensation that, in my opinion, helps with itching. Money is tight for me, and Sarna is a bit pricey, but I don't mind paying the price because it gives me such relief.



Tecnu Extreme Poison Ivy & Oak Scrub—Removes Toxin from Skin That Causes Poison Ivy and Poison Oak Rash, 4-Ounce Tube, (Pack of 2) Review:


I have a thin skin and am a senior. I had to deal with poison ivy on my arms (elbows down) and legs for a week after getting it from cleaning weeds and bushes from my land, which was horrible (knees down). I tried everything, including Benadryl gel, to dry out the rash so it wouldn't cause me to scratch nonstop. However, nothing worked long-term. I tried this product after reading positive reviews, and it was fantastic. In three days, it was entirely dry. After using the Tecnu, I also applied Benadryl gel and allowed it dry to cover the redness. So that I wouldn't ever be without it again, I got the two pack again. You won't be let down. Everybody's first aid kit needs to contain it.



Domeboro Medicated Soak Rash Relief (Burow’s Solution), 12 Powder Packets (Pack of 2) Review:


Midway through 2018, my doctor advised me to use a Domeboro soak to alleviate a rash. The following week, our veterinarian advised us to apply a Domeboro compress on our dog's wound. Both times, it performed almost magically. Even worse, I had never heard of it!I've now learnt that Domeboro (formerly known as Burow's Solution) is made entirely of the substance aluminium triacetate, which was discovered to be an effective cure for skin ailments over 150 years ago (!). Its continued use in hospitals defies all logic and attests to its effectiveness.Additionally, Domeboro is a fantastic value because it comes in 12 powder packets and is priced very affordably. Do not accept alternatives!



Tecnu Rash Relief Medicated Anti-Itch Spray, Soothes Itching and Prevents Scarring, 6 fluid Ounces Review:


Before discovering this medicine on Amazon, I had previously experienced two cases of poison ivy this season and had already tried witch hazel, calamine, caladryl, Neosporin, benadryl, and alcohol, among other treatments. I regret not getting it sooner. It does take some time to dry, which is why I gave it a rating of four stars. Time is crucial when applying and when you're in need of itching alleviation. However, the cream does work and helped my second round of PI disappear rapidly since it causes the bumps to dry up more quickly than the other solutions I tried. I appreciate your quality merchandise. I'm hoping I won't have to use it once more this year. LOL.



Caladryl Clear Lotion Topical Analgesic Skin Protectant, 6 Ounce Bottle Review:


The greatest remedy for fire ant bites is this item. At Walmart in Hilo, I used to be able to purchase 6 ounces of Swan Clear Anti-Itch Lotion for about $3.00. They eventually ceased transporting it. The item had vanished when I searched the entire island and then the internet. "Compare to the active elements of Caladryl Clear," was written in small text at the bottom of the label, so I googled that product and was delighted to find this on Amazon. The labels' phrasing and the active substances are the same. The fantastic anti-itch lotion I had been using for fire ant bites is still there! You'll be glad you gave it a try.



ZANFEL - Poison Ivy, Oak & Sumac Wash, 1 Oz Review:


The vines of poison ivy are common in my neighborhood. I am one of the unfortunate persons who gets poison ivy when the wind blows, thus I spend hundreds every year attempting to get rid of it from my yard (assuming particulate matter has come in contact with urushiol oil before becoming airborne). No matter how frequently I scrub the affected region or apply anti-histamine lotion, the itching from poison ivy persists, and I refuse to take oral or injectable steriods. Who requires fluid retention, a 6-month increase in blood sugar, or an increase in hunger brought on by steroids? I currently have a rash on the inner lower arm. When I applied Zanfel for the first time after receiving it on Friday night, the itching subsided, and by morning, 75% of the rope-like rash had vanished. Since Zanfel isn't readily available where I live, I'll definitely be purchasing more goods from Amazon.14 October 2016 Update. The winters of 2015–2016 were remarkably mild, whereas the summer of 2016 was brutally hot and muggy. As a result, despite my lawn man's best efforts to control and eliminate it, the poison ivy thrived. Unfortunately, I've had quite a few poison ivy rashes this year. To ensure that I always have Zanfel on hand, I've started buying it in Twin packs.



Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser, First Step in Poison Oak and Ivy Treatment, 12 Ounces Review:


My remote property in Central California is completely covered in poison oak. I'm forced to work in it because I have to clear acreage for wildfire season. Despite the fact that I am extremely sensitive to poison oak, I have worked for the past six weekends without experiencing any side effects. What I do is as follows:In order to prevent the oil from adhering to my skin before dressing, I placed something on it. In case some oil seeps through, I actually use waterproof sunscreen even on regions that will be covered by clothing.I present myself well by wearing two pairs of thick socks and regular sneakers. I have two pairs of pants on: a pair of warmups made of cotton and a pair of fatigue-style pants. a cotton shirt with long sleeves. I purchased hefty rubber, chemical-resistant gloves that are easy to clean and cannot be penetrated by oil.Timing: If you "know" you are going to be exposed to poison oak, wait no longer than 2-3 hours before you do it.Cleaning: Prepare a can of mineral spirits (paint thinner) and a rag as soon as possible. Like others have said, the oil dries on your skin like a lacquer and won't wash off with soap and water. Cleaning any tools you used and soaking the fabric should come first. My old tool cleaner, Tecnu, is no longer necessary; paint thinner does the job just as well. Wipe your gloves now without removing them. Clean your shoes next. Before entering the house, take off your shoes and gloves. After that, enter the laundry room immediately after finishing getting dressed. I've discovered that using hot water and regular detergent cleans everything perfectly. Who cares if you mix light and dark colors—these are only work clothes, right?Enter the shower and clean your body with the standard Tecnu soap. I massage it into my face, arms, legs, and hands. Add extra and rub again after letting it set for a minute. Use cool water to rinse. After that, take a regular shower using hot water, soap, and water. If you have poison oak oil on you and haven't completely removed it, hot water will open your pores and cause the burn/itch of the poison oak to become noticeable. The "Extreme" Tecnu Scrub should be used in this situation. Use it wherever this irritation is beginning. Your skin will be scrubbed of the oil, and the symptoms will go an hour later.Since I started doing the aforementioned, I've had a 100% success rate in avoiding symptoms. It is incredible. By the way, I also prefer the Tecnu Calagel because it creates a protective barrier on the skin and may be used for cuts, bug bites, or rash (though I haven't used it in a while).One more word of caution: whenever working with poison oak, always assume you have it on you. Remove your rubber gloves, clean them with paint thinner, and then wash your hands with Tecnu cleanser before taking a break to eat, drink, or use the restroom. I hope this is helpful; I'll publish this under the Tecnu cleanser item as well.


Does popping poison ivy blisters spread it?

Popping poison ivy blisters does not spread the poison ivy rash. The blisters are filled with clear fluid, not the oily sap that contains the poison ivy rash-causing chemical. However, the blisters can become infected if they are popped.

Does rubbing alcohol help poison ivy?

There is some evidence that rubbing alcohol can help to dry out poison ivy and speed healing. However, it is important to be careful not to spread the poison ivy rash further by using a contaminated towel or cloth. It is also important to avoid getting the alcohol into any open cuts or wounds.

How do you get rid of poison ivy overnight?

There is no one definitive answer to this question as different people may have different methods that work for them. However, some methods that may help to get rid of poison ivy overnight include using cold compresses or taking a cool bath. Additionally, over-the-counter antihistamines can help to relieve itching. If the poison ivy is particularly severe, a doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid.

How do you stop poison ivy from spreading?

The best way to stop poison ivy from spreading is to avoid coming into contact with the plant. If you do come into contact with poison ivy, wash the area with soap and water as soon as possible. You can also apply a topical corticosteroid cream to the affected area to help reduce itching and swelling. If you have a severe reaction, you may need to take oral prednisone.

How long does it take for poison ivy to go away completely?

It takes about two to three weeks for poison ivy to go away completely. The rash usually starts to improve within a week or so. However, it may take longer for the rash to go away completely.

Is Dawn dish soap good for poison ivy?

Dawn dish soap is not good for poison ivy. The dish soap can strip away the natural oils in your skin, which can actually make the poison ivy rash worse.