with poison oak involving the face the child should be seen by a doctor and evaluated for the possible need for prescription medications. poison oak is a reaction from the oil found in the plant. the more contact you have with the oil the more severe the rash. it is important to make sure you wash all clothing in hot water to eliminate all the oil from the plants and to prevent further contact or spreading to other people. once the oil is off the clothing and the body it is no longer contagious. if it doesn’t involve the face the first part of treatment for poison oak is to wash the body thoroughly with wet compresses or cool water. the sores or the rash can be treated with many different over-the-counter products. antihistamines can help to decrease the swelling itching and redness. the corticosteroid cream is also great to use to treat the rash.
how do i care for my daughter whose ear and face are covered in poison oak?