How to Prevent Poison Oak

Poison oak, like poison sumac and poison ivy, contains urushiol, an irritating oil that can cause an itchy rash in people who are allergic to it. According to MayoClinic.com, your skin typically reacts to contact with urushiol 12 to 48 later -- but the symptoms can last as long as a couple of month. The best prevention for poison oak, of course, is to avoid all contact with the plant and its oil. It's also possible, however, to prevent or minimize symptoms, even if you've been exposed, with some simple self-care measures.

Instructions

• 1

  Look at pictures of poison oak in various seasons and learn to identify it. Although everyone's heard, "Leaves of three, let it be," not everyone knows what poison oak looks like.

• 2

  Pay attention to your surroundings when hiking and biking in the woods, especially in damp, shady areas where poison oak likes to grow, and avoid it if you can. Turn back if a trail is so covered with poison oak that you can't wade through it safely.

• 3

  Wear socks, close-toed shoes and long pants, even in warm weather, if you're walking in an area where you know or suspect poison oak grows. These provide a barrier and prevent the oil from reaching your skin as readily.

• 4

  Rinse your skin off thoroughly and immediately if water is available, if you suspect contact with poison oak.

• 5

  Wash with soap and water as soon as you return home. Remove all clothing that may have been in contact with poison oak, and wash it immediately as well.