To treat a poison ivy rash, take an over-the-counter antihistamine, apply a baking soda compress, take an oatmeal bath, moisturize thoroughly, and cover the rash with cotton clothing. This 45-minute process usually works within four days. The required supplies are towels, baking soda, an oatmeal bath additive, gentle skin soap, moisturizer and cotton clothing.
- Take an antihistamine
Take an over-the-counter antihistamine as soon as you discover the poison ivy rash. Refer to the packaging for dosage information.
- Apply a baking soda compress
Soak a clean towel in cool water and baking soda, drape it over the rash, and leave it there for up to 30 minutes. Apply compresses several times a day.
- Bathe with an oatmeal additive
Take a short, cool bath with a soothing oatmeal additive. At the end of the bath, wash the rash with a tiny amount of gentle, deodorant-free soap.
- Moisturize the affected skin
Step out of the bath, gently blot the rash with a towel, and apply a nourishing moisturizer to your damp skin. Use a gentle, fragrance-free product to avoid irritating the rash.
- Cover the rash with cotton clothing
Leave the affected skin bare until it absorbs the moisturizer, then cover it with loose cotton clothing.
