How to Use Benzoyl Peroxide Cream on Poison Ivy
A poison ivy rash is essentially an allergic reaction to the plant's urushiol, a natural oil that's also found in oak and sumac. When human skin comes into contact with urushiol, it develops a rash that's characterized by itchiness, redness and hives. In extremely adverse reactions, skin can also become blistered. The rash typically appears eight to 48 hours after infection, and can linger for 10 to 21 days if left untreated, according to WebMD. However, symptoms can easily be relieved with prompt treatment at home. Benzoyl peroxide, a common acne medication, can also be used to combat the rash caused by poison ivy. Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial ointment that oxygenates pores and flushes out excess dead skin cells. Its cleansing effect rids the skin of contaminated tissue and restores the surface.
Instructions
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Soak a washcloth in cool water and thoroughly cleanse the affected area. Pat dry.
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Using clean finger tips, generously apply the benzoyl peroxide to the affected area.
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Repeat the process in 12-hour intervals. Continue treatment until the rash has been resolved. If you have made no significant progress with the medication after seven days, contact a medical professional.
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Tips & Warnings
A common side effect of benzoyl peroxide is skin dryness and flakiness. This can be mitigated by applying an oil-free moisturizing lotion directly to the affected area after it has been treated with the ointment.
Higher concentrations of benzoyl peroxide can induce skin irritation. Because of this, only milder ointments in 2.5 percent strength are recommended to treat poison ivy.
Although benzoyl peroxide can be an effective remedy against poison ivy, it's ideal to prevent the skin rash by avoiding any contact with poison ivy. Because urushiol is present throughout the plant's leaves, stem and roots, handling poison ivy without any proper protection can lead to contamination.
Because urushiol is either absorbed by the skin or washed off, the skin rash is not contagious. However, any other item that comes into contact with poison ivy (such as gardening tools, clothing, pet hair and sports equipment), can become tainted with the oil and pass on the skin rash.
Up to 10 percent of people may exhibit an allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide, according to EverythingAcne.com. Incidentally, the allergic reaction produces a skin irritation that resembles a poison ivy rash. If this occurs, contact a dermatologist or health specialist immediately.
Always be extremely cautious when applying benzoyl peroxide around your belongings. A common hazard of using benzoyl peroxide is its tendency to bleach any fabric that comes into contact with it, such as clothes, towels and bedding.
