Common products include topical liquid cleansers and washes designed to remove plant oils, anti-itch creams and ointments (often containing active ingredients), and scrub or wash creams formulated to remove urushiol and soothe irritated skin.
Many over-the-counter topical anti-itch creams and ointments list 1% hydrocortisone as the active ingredient for temporary relief of itching from poison oak.
Cleansers and washes are described as helping to remove urushiol (the plant oil that causes the rash) and rinsing away any remaining skin irritants.
Some over-the-counter anti-itch products list suitability for adults and children ages 2 and up; always follow the specific age recommendations and directions printed on the product label.
Recommendations vary by product: one item suggests washing within about 8 hours after exposure as a good rule of thumb, while another indicates its wash can be effective at any stage and may provide relief with a single application. Since guidance differs, follow the directions on the product you use.
