The first fact about the rash from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac is that it is VERY itchy. For most people, it will be the most irritating, itchy experience they have ever had. It makes mosquito bites look like…nothing.

The rash can show up with many different looks, depending on how a person gets the plant oil on them: a few spots, an entire rough area, or the dreaded fluid-filled bubbles. Many say the fluid may contain urushiol which is the oil that causes the rash; all medical sources say it does not. The rash almost always shows up the next day, after the actual exposure. It may start with a small reddish area, which grows in size and redness and in itchiness.

Usually the rash lasts two to three weeks, but this depends on how bad was the exposure, how bad is one’s sensitivity, and if you get treatment from a doctor. Our advice is always this: for a small annoying rash either visit the drug store or just ignore it. But for a big, nasty rash, or one that is near the eyes, you must go to the doctor.

If these few images are not scary enough, visit our Skin Rash Hall of Fame to see more examples, including some horrific life-changing rashes.

You Touched Poison Ivy. Now What?

If you think you made contact with these plants, wash your skin with cool water immediately. Wipe the area with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol to help dissolve and remove the urushiol oil. You only have about 30 minutes after coming into contact to minimize the symptoms of poison ivy. It's a good idea to wash your garden tools as well, and remove and wash your clothing.

Learn more about the rash here.