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Poison ivy, oak, and sumac


poison ivy warning sign
Plants that can make you itch

While poison ivy is the most common cause of contact dermatitis in the United States, a host of other common plants are capable of producing skin reactions.

woman washing hands
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: What if I touch a plant?

If you think you’ve touched one of these plants, acting quickly may prevent a rash. Here’s what dermatologists recommend you do immediately after encountering poison, ivy, oak, or sumac.

A wooden sign on the forest floor warns of poison ivy
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: How can I prevent a rash?

It’s an oil in these plants that causes the rash. By taking some precautions, you may be able to prevent the oil from getting on your skin.

poison ivy rash on arm
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: How to treat the rash

In this video, you’ll find out what dermatologists recommend for treating the rash at home.

Poison oak leaves held by someone with a poison oak rash on their arm
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: What does the rash look like?

Most people develop a red, itchy rash with blisters, but the rash can show up in other ways. Pictures show you how this rash can appear on the skin.

man cutting weeds
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: When does the rash appear?

Your skin absorbs the oil from these plants quickly, but you rarely see a rash right away. Find out how long it can for a rash to appear.

Happy family walking through woodland grass area
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: Who gets a rash?

Some people develop one rash and later see more rashes on their body, but does this mean that the rash is contagious?

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