smaller droplets, which can still spread over the skin. Do not scrub too hard or else the top layer of skin may be exposed, stripping the layers the oil needs to penetrate. At this point, it is important to not return to an area with poison ivy because the skin’s natural protective oils have been washed away. TREATING THE RASH If there has been an exposure and a rash develops, then they will general- ly go away within two weeks. In the meantime, treatment includes over- the-counter medications. Products that dry out the skin, such as Burow’s solution, calamine and witch hazel can help reduce itchiness. They can be applied 2-4 times per day for a maximum of 7 days. Oatmeal baths can also help. Blisters may form and even break open, but the liquid that oozes is, contrary to popular belief, not more urushiol oil. As painful as the blisters may be, they should not be popped, as exposure to air means they may become infected.
Blisters may form and even break open after contact with urushiol oil. If they appear, they should be left alone as popping them may lead to infection.
“The key is coverage. Remember that once you touch a toxic plant that has oils, it will stay there,” Chris Kemp said. McCallister reports that it is vital when working at a tree site to know the spe- cies and to have the correct protective equipment. “Leather gloves work with barbary but they aren’t good for poison ivy,” McCal- lister said. “The leather will keep the oil on them aer.” FIRST AID If you happen to come in contact with a hazardous plant, clean, disinfect, and treat any exposed skin so that the oil does not continue to spread and cause further symptoms. Just as important is properly cleaning your gear as well. For tips on how to care for your exposed gear, turn to our article on personal pro- tective equipment (PPE) on page 32. REMOVING THE IRRITANT There are a few techniques to remove the urushiol oil from one’s skin.
The first is to pour rubbing alcohol on the infected area. Oil will dis- solve in alcohol, and the alcohol will draw the oil out of the skin. As the alcohol is drained away, so will the urushiol oil. The second step is to wash the area with soap and lukewarm water. Avoid using soap as the first step because soap is simply an emulsifier, which means it will break down the oil into
The same goes for scratching — as hard
After pouring rubbing alcohol on the infected area to dissolve the urushiol oil, be sure to wash the area with soap and lukewarm water.
28 | ArborTIMES Fall 2024
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