Why do poison ivy and oak plants cause my skin to break out? You can thank urushiol, the resin found in all parts of poison ivy, poison oak, & poison sumac plants. To get rid of a poison ivy or oak rash, you have to remove the urushiol to allow the skin to begin it’s natural healing process.
If you suspect, or know you have been, in contact with poison ivy plants, we recommend using Tecnu Extreme as an all over body wash. Mix the product with a small amount of water and gently scrub affected areas. Tecnu Extreme will gently exfoliate the skin and effectively remove poison ivy oil. If necessary, follow-up with a poison ivy rash treatment for itching and pain.
TIP: The sooner you can wash with a poison ivy soap (like Tecnu Extreme) after exposure to these poison plants, the better chance you have of avoiding the rash. The rule of thumb is to wash within 8 hours, after that time frame, its likely the resin has already been absorbed by your body.