Pediatric Dermatology

Poison ivy is a plant that can cause an itchy, bumpy, red rash when touched. The plant contains an oily substance called urushiol, which causes a skin reaction in most people. The rash can appear within a few hours or a few days after contact.

Poison ivy is commonly found in wooded areas, parks, and gardens. It can grow as a vine, shrub, or ground cover, with leaves that typically have three leaflets. “Leaves of three, let them be” is a good rule to remember.

Itchy rash: Red, itchy bumps or streaks on areas of skin that have come into contact with the plant.

Swelling and blisters: The skin may become swollen, and blisters may form.

Pain or sensitivity: The rash may be painful or sensitive to touch.

Touching the plant

Contact with any part of the poison ivy plant (leaves, stems, or roots) can cause a reaction.

Indirect contact

Urushiol can stick to clothing, pets, toys, or anything that touches the plant. If your child comes into contact with these items, they can develop a rash.

No, poison ivy is not contagious. You can’t catch it from another person. However, if the oil from the poison ivy plant is on someone’s skin, clothes, or objects they’ve touched, it can spread to others and cause a rash.

To stop the spread, it is important to wash off the oil.

• Teach your child to recognize poison ivy using the “leaves of three, let them be” rule.
• When in areas where poison ivy may grow, have your child wear long sleeves, long pants, and gloves.
• Wash everything that may have come into contact with the oil, including clothes and shoes.
• Wash pets if they’ve been outside in areas where poison ivy may grow, as the oil can stick to their fur.

Wash the skin

As soon as possible, wash your child’s skin with soap and water to remove the urushiol oil.

Cool compresses

Apply cool, wet compresses to the affected areas to help reduce itching and swelling.

Anti-itch cream

Over-the-counter creams like hydrocortisone or calamine lotion can help relieve itching.

Oatmeal baths

Giving your child an oatmeal bath (using an oatmeal-based bath product) can soothe irritated skin.

Keep it clean

Gently clean the rash with mild soap and remind your child to avoid scratching, which can cause infection.

Severe rash

If the rash covers a large area of the body or appears on sensitive areas (such as the face or genitals).

Infection

If blisters break open and become infected, or if the rash becomes very painful.

Breathing problems

If the rash develops near the eyes or mouth, or if your child has trouble breathing.

Eczema is a condition where the skin gets red, itchy, and swollen. It can happen because of things like dry air, allergies, or other things that irritate the skin. It can also run in families.

Itchy, red skin

Skin that’s dry, scaly, or inflamed.

Rash

Commonly found on the face, elbows, knees, or hands.

Dryness

Skin may look dry or cracked, especially during cold weather.

Eczema flare-ups can result from:

• Dry air: Cold or dry weather.
• Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, or mold.
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, fabrics, or fragrances.
• Sweat and stress: Physical activity or emotional stress.

Keep skin moisturized

Use thick creams or ointments after bathing to lock in moisture.

Avoid triggers

Try to identify and avoid things that cause flare-ups (like certain soaps or allergens).

Gentle skincare

Use fragrance-free, mild soap and detergent. Avoid hot baths; warm water is better.

Be sure to talk to your child’s doctor about their eczema. Your child’s doctor might refer you to a dermatologist (skin doctor) or allergist (a doctor who can perform allergy testing).

Here’s what to take with you to your child’s appointment:

• A list of your child’s eczema triggers (foods, fabrics, soaps, etc.).
• Names of any current medications or creams your child is using for eczema.
• Symptom tracker.
• Comfortable clothing that won’t irritate the skin (soft cotton).

Following the care plan, including recommended follow-up appointments, supports effective management. Consistency with skincare routines—such as moisturizing and gentle cleansing—as well as prescribed medications (e.g., topical steroids, as directed) plays an important role. Ongoing communication with the care team regarding any changes or concerns is also encouraged.