How to Dry Up Poison Oak

To effectively dry out poison oak, you must remove all the oil from your skin. The oil on the leaves, branches and stems contains a compound called urushiol. Urushiol elicits an immune response from your body that causes inflammation, pain and itching. The rash will go away when the oil is completely removed by drying out the skin.

Things You'll Need

• Degreasing soap
• Shower
• Towel
• Space heater
• Aloe vera

Instructions

Dry Out Poison Oak

1. Buy degreasing soap at a hardware or auto parts store. Degreasing soap is commonly used by mechanics to remove engine oil and grease.

2. Take a shower. Use the degreasing soap on all parts of the body affected or exposed to poison oak. Avoid the face and scalp, unless they are affected as well, in which case use a small amount and rinse quickly.

3. Towel-dry and stand in front of the space heater. Place each part of the body affected or exposed to the poison oak directly in front of the heater until completely dry.

4. Apply aloe vera gel generously to all affected areas. Allow the aloe to dry before putting on any clothing.

5. Repeat this process several times if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash all clothes and bedding that may have exposed to poison oak before beginning the washing and drying process.

References

• Poison Oak FAQ
• Poison Oak or Ivy Relief