Poison Ivy Prevention Tips You Need to Know

Toxicodendron radicans also known as Poison Ivy, is a woody vine or sometimes shrub, usually found in tropical areas, and is known to carry Urushiol, a toxic chemical that can cause rashes and blisters when absorbed by the human skin.

Here are quick tips on Poison Ivy prevention:

1. Keep Off Woody/Shrubby Places. Being closer to nature is one hell of an adventure but take extra precaution because the woods is Poison Ivy's territory. The plant can practically grow anywhere. Adding to its beauty is the change of color from green to sunset red during fall which makes it even more attractive. If you are not familiar with how the plant looks like, then one of the best moves to poison ivy prevention is to refrain from touching any plant. If you had your pet (dogs/cats) join you in the woods, make sure to rub the animal with a clean washcloth before directly touching their fur. Urishiol oil can stick to animal hairs and may be transferred to human skin.

2. Know the Plant. Before getting into an outdoor adventure such as camping in the woods, take the time to know the animals and plants you'll encounter. Sure, a plant cannot "attack", but the sting that its parts can cause is a major disaster that can ruin your outdoor fun.

3. Deodorize Yourself. Sounds funny but according to the US Forestry Service, most deodorant sprays contain Aluminum Chlorohydrate. Such chemical, when applied to skin, can block the urushiol oil from entering the skin pores. Be careful though because alumimum chlorohydrate cannot just be applied to sensitive skin types like that of the face.

4. Use Pre-Exposure and Post-Exposure Products. If part of your life is to really be exposed to getting contact with plants, poison ivy not an exception, then apply pre-exposure products to protect your skin. There are commercial products sold in the form of lotion or cream that can be applied prior to getting in contact with the plant. There are also post-exposure products which need to be applied to prevent the worsening of infected skin.

5. Dress Appropriately. If you're planning to go out in the woods and have some fun, make sure to cover the most skin possible. Contrary to the city's flaunting of party dresses, in the woods, less skin exposure means more chances that you will not be infected by poison ivy toxin.

For more about poison ivy prevention tips, please be sure to visit http://www.remediesforpoisonivy.com.