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How to Treat Poison Sumac on the Face

According to research published in Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, up to 50 million people experience an allergic reaction to the Toxicodendron species (poison ivy, oak and sumac) each year. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates 85 percent of those exposed have an allergic reaction to the oil (urushiol) of the plants, while a lucky 15 percent has none. The resulting rash can vary in intensity, from a slight itch to swelling, blistering and oozing. On the face the swelling can be disfiguring and particularly uncomfortable. The rash typically runs its course in two weeks, yet in that time there are various treatments (traditional or home remedy) available to help reduce the itch, hasten the drying time and reduce edema.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean, soft wash cloth
  • Cotton balls
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Astringent solution
  • Hydrocortisone or other topical corticosteroids
  • Calamine
  • Oral antihistamine
  • Oral steroid
  • Home Remedy Ingredients:
  • Ice cubes
  • Vinegar
  • Oatmeal
  • Baking soda
  • Jewel weed
  • Sauce pan
  • Aloe Vera plant
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Instructions

  1. Pharmaceutical Approach

    • 1

      Soak a clean soft cloth in either cool water or an astringent solution (Burow's solution).

    • 2

      Apply the compress to the affected area for 15 to 30 minutes.

    • 3

      Smooth on topical hydrocortisone cream with a cotton ball.

    • 4

      Apply calamine lotion at night to assist drying.

    • 5

      Take oral antihistamine per package directions to relieve itch and help you sleep.

    • 6

      Visit your doctor for an oral steroid prescription should symptoms worsen or last longer than two weeks.

    Home Remedy Approach

    • 7

      Cool face with ice cubes to compress blood vessels and relieve itch, off and on throughout the day.

    • 8

      Apply vinegar to affected areas with cotton balls.

    • 9

      Mix a paste of 1 part oatmeal to 2 parts water and apply to the face as a facial mask for 30 minutes.

    • 10

      Concoct a mixture of 1-part baking soda to 2-parts water and apply to the rash with cotton balls.

    • 11

      Break off a leaf of the Aloe Vera plant and apply the sap to the rash area.

    • 12

      Locate jewel weed (found in the woods, fields, along roadsides); boil the stems and leaves in water. Let the liquid cool and splash on the face throughout the day.

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