How to Treat Poison Ivy Blisters

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Blisters are a common, irritating result of the poison ivy rash . While it might seem very tempting to pick and scratch at them, it’s important to let these pesky sores heal on their own . To alleviate some itching and discomfort, opt for some soothing topical treatments, like calamine lotion, baking soda, or tea tree oil. If the itchiness is persistent, consider taking some antihistamine pills or asking a doctor about steroid creams and injections. Make the healing process go as quickly as possible by protecting your blisters with bandages. In about a week, your poison ivy blisters will start fading away! [1]

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Soothing Itchiness and Discomfort

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-1.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Squeeze a small amount of calamine lotion onto your fingertips. Using soft, gentle motions, spread the product over all of your blisters. If you run out of lotion, pour out another pea-sized amount. [2]
    • Any kind of over-the-counter corticosteroid cream will work.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-2.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Soak the dressings in aluminum acetate and then lay them over the blisters. Leave the wet dressings in place for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, remove the dressings. Repeat 4 to 6 times daily to help soothe the irritated skin. [3]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-3.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Create a soothing topical treatment with 3 tsp (12 g) of baking soda and 1  tsp (4.9 mL) of water. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly, and rub the paste over any affected areas. Don’t rinse off the paste—instead, use it in the same way that you’d apply lotion.
    • If your poison ivy blisters are more widespread, draw a warm bath with ½ cup (90 g) of baking soda mixed in. [4]

    Did you know? Apple cider vinegar can provide quick relief to your blisters, while also working to dry out the skin. Keep in mind that this treatment might sting at first, since acidic vinegar will feel harsh on your inflamed skin.

  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-4.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Soak a paper towel or washcloth in cool running water. Wring out the compress so it’s not dripping wet, and place the item over your itchiest blisters. Leave the compress on your skin for 15-30 minutes, then remove the towel or cloth to give your skin some fresh air. Feel free to use this treatment several times throughout the day. [5]
    • This treatment is best for small sections of poison ivy blisters.
    • Don’t use warm or hot water, as this won’t feel soothing on your skin irritated skin.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-5.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Soak in a lukewarm oatmeal bath if your blisters are widespread. Look in your drugstore for a bath treatment product including oatmeal as a main ingredient, or add about 1 cup (90 g) of oats into a tub filled with lukewarm water. Ideally, aim for your bath to be between 90 and 95 °F (32 and 35 °C). [6]
    • If you’re in a rush, try taking a short, cool shower instead.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-6.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dab some tea tree oil over opened poison ivy blisters . Pour a small, coin-sized amount of tea tree oil onto a cotton ball or pad, and gently pat it onto your opened blister. Don’t rub the oil in—instead, gently massage it around the affected skin. Let the oil sit on the open blister instead of wiping it off. [7]
    • Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory qualities, and is great for preventing infections.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-7.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Go to your local drugstore and pick up some antihistamine tablets, like Benadryl. Follow the recommended dose on the bottle, and don’t take too many tablets at once. Continue taking these pills throughout the day, as the medicine permit. [8]
    • If using Benadryl, adults can take 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Benadryl may also help you sleep.
    • For a non-drowsy option, take 10 mg of Claritin (loratadine) once daily. Children ages 3 to 5 can take 5mg of Claritin once per day.
    • Another non-drowsy antihistamine is Zyrtec (cetirizine).
    8. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Getting Medical Treatment for Severe Blisters

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-8.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Contact your doctor if you have debilitating itchiness or irritation from your poison ivy blisters. See if steroid cream is an option for you, and if your local physician would be willing to prescribe it for you on a limited basis. [9]
    • Unfortunately, allergy shots don’t speed up the healing process or ease any itchiness. [10]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-9.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Talk to your doctor about receiving a steroid injection if your poison ivy rashes and blisters are unbearable. Follow the treatment instructions carefully, especially if you need to take another medication in addition to the injections. [11]
    • Depending on your individual case, your doctor might prescribe an injection of triamcinolone.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-10.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Keep an eye on your symptoms, and take note of your internal temperature. If you start feeling feverish or noticing yellow-colored pus emerging from your blisters, there’s a good chance you could have an infection. Contact your doctor as soon as possible to get the right treatment that you need. [12]
    • If your body temperature is over 100 °F (38 °C) or your rash hasn’t cleared in 2-3 weeks, then you should schedule an emergency appointment with your doctor.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-11.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Talk to your doctor to get an official diagnosis on your condition. When prescribed, follow the proper dosing instructions and monitor your symptoms, such as your internal temperature. Continue taking this medication orally until your doctor confirms that the infection is gone. [13]
    • Infections tend to occur with larger outbreaks of the poison ivy rash.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Maintaining Sanitary Habits

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bd\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bd\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-12.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    As soon as you notice your rash and blisters, take time to wash off the area with warm water and Dial soap, GOOP (which removes oil and grease), or Tecnu (a soap formulated for treating poison ivy). Remove any leftover urushiol left on your skin, which is the natural substance that causes the rash and blisters to form. Make sure to scrub under your fingernails as well. Additionally, take off any clothes that you were wearing at the time you got poison ivy. [14]
    • Be sure to wash your clothes immediately after taking them off.
    • Once the oil is washed off of your skin, the poison ivy is no longer contagious to other people.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/18\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/18\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-13.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Resist the temptation to pop open your blisters. Despite popular belief, this won’t make your rash heal faster; in fact, it might end up significantly slowing down the healing process. If the itching becomes unbearable, try applying a soothing topical treatment to ease any discomfort. [15]
    • Infections most often occur in popped/opened blisters.

    Did you know? The fluid inside of your poison ivy blisters isn’t contagious. The contagious, itch-inducing oil secreted by poison ivy, oak, and sumac is known as urushiol, and is removed as soon as you wash off the affected area.

  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-14.jpg\/aid11496441-v4-728px-Treat-Poison-Ivy-Blisters-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s important to leave the blisters uncovered as the skin covering the blisters will act as a natural protective bandage. Avoid covering the blisters with any kind of bandage as this may make it worse. [16]
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Things You’ll Need

      Soothing Itchiness and Discomfort

      • Calamine lotion
      • Aluminum acetate solution and bandages for soaking
      • Baking soda
      • Water
      • Cool wet compress
      • Oatmeal
      • Tea tree oil
      • Cotton ball
      • Antihistamine medication

      Getting Medical Treatment for Severe Blisters

      • Steroid cream
      • Antibiotics

      Maintaining Sanitary Habits

      • Hand soap


      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Get Rid of Poison Oak Rash
      How to
      Remove Cactus Needles
      How to
      Treat a Sting from a Stinging Nettle
      How to
      Identify Poison Sumac
      How to
      Dry Up Poison Ivy Rash
      How to
      Treat Poison Ivy and Poison Oak
      How to
      Treat Poison Ivy Rashes at Home
      How to
      Get Poison Ivy or Poison Oak Off Your Clothes
      How to
      Identify Poison Oak
      How to
      Wash Off Poison Ivy
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10655-poison-plants-poison-ivy--poison-oak--poison-sumac
      2. ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/skin/Pages/Poison-Ivy-Treatment.aspx
      3. ↑ https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=6ebed2f4-6a06-47a3-bde4-c47b32cd81cb&type=display
      4. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/poison-ivy.html
      5. ↑ https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/sports-medicine/sports-medicine-articles/the-abcs-of-blister-care
      6. ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/not59770
      7. ↑ https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/selfcare-instructions/how-to-care-for-pressure-sores
      8. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/21223-antihistamines
      9. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10655-poison-plants-poison-ivy--poison-oak--poison-sumac
      1. ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/not59770
      2. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/itchy-skin/rash/rash-101
      3. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10655-poison-plants-poison-ivy--poison-oak--poison-sumac
      4. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/impetigo.html
      5. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10655-poison-plants-poison-ivy--poison-oak--poison-sumac
      6. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11879-pruritus
      7. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/blisters

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 35,506 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement