How Do You Treat Poison Ivy Rashes With Cortisone?
Over-the-counter anti-itching creams that use cortisone as an active ingredient may be too mild to treat a full-blown ivy rash. These products may be used, however, to treat the rash in its later stages, once drying agents such as calamine lotion, baking soda and oatmeal have done their jobs. Get the early stages of a poison ivy rash under control by using calamine lotion to soothe and protect the affected areas, and oatmeal baths to provide relief from itching. Applying cold compresses made with baking soda and Epsom salt may also help to relieve the skin irritation. Keep the water cool, which will prevent your skin pores from opening up and allowing the oil from the poison ivy to penetrate further. Use calamine lotion on the affected area, applying it liberally 3 to 4 times per day, until the rash is free of oozing and weeping clear fluids. You should discontinue the use of calamine lotion once the skin around the rash is dry and healing, since it can dry out your skin too much and c
