How Do Rashes—Like Poison Ivy– Spread?
That is a really important point when dealing with contact dermatitis. Most people believe that it can be spread by scratching and spreading the fluid in the blisters. That is not true. The only way the rash can spread is if the oil from the plant spreads to new parts of the skin. There are several ways for this to happen: • The person doesn’t believe in personal hygiene or has a religious objection to using soap. Soap makes oil dissolve in water and wash down the drain. Soap is your friend. • They enjoy the rash so much, they go back and touch more plants to maximize their fun. • The towels, shirts, coats, and bed linens get some of the oil on them and so spread it to different body parts. Watch bands and eye glasses can also carry the oil. • Bowser the dog rolled around in a field of the plants and is spreading the joy with his affection.