Summertime remains synonymous with carefree fun, especially for kids experiencing the outdoor excitement of summer camp. However, happy and transformative memories aren’t the only things campers often bring home. Some return with unwelcome souvenirs such as poison ivy, rashes, and other skin conditions.
Here’s our guide to the skin conditions your kids may face from summer camp.
Common Summer Skin Rashes in Kids
Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac
When kids find themselves playing in and around wooded areas, they may come across poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac somewhere along the way. These extremely common poisonous plants can cause an itchy and irritating skin rash, which is the most common allergic reaction in the country. In fact, it affects as many as 50 million Americans annually. According to the American Skin Association, approximately 85% of us are allergic to poison ivy, poison sumac, or poison oak. Around 10 to 15% are extremely allergic.
Prevention
While the most common warning is to keep an eye out for plants with three leaves, each of these plants can also appear in groups of five, seven, or nine leaves. Do an online image search for each, and make sure the child is well aware of what the plants look like before spending substantial time outdoors. If possible, have them wear long sleeves and pants to better avoid contact with poisonous plants.
Reaction
The sap from poison ivy, oak, and sumac contains urushiol, the oil that causes the allergic reaction. The reaction, known as allergic contact dermatitis, begins with swelling and redness, and blisters and itching follow. Symptoms range from mildly unpleasant to very severe, with intense swelling, blistering, and oozing. It can appear within several hours and up to five days after contact.
Treatment
If you know your child has encountered the sap, have them bathe with soap and water within 15 to 20 minutes of contact. Make sure they change clothes, and that all clothes and accessories that could have been exposed are washed.
Over-the-counter medications can be used to treat allergic contact dermatitis. What is the best cream for poison ivy, oak, or sumac for kids? 1% hydrocortisone cream, a low-dose topical steroid, helps reduce inflammation, redness, and itching. Calamine lotion can be another option as it also soothes the skin and keeps itchiness at bay.
However, for more severe cases, over-the-counter remedies won’t solve the problem. The experts at Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics can examine a rash and provide prescription-strength treatment for quick symptom relief.
Concerned About Summer Rashes That Kids Experience? Make an Appointment with Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics
Olansky Dermatology and Aesthetics’ team of board-certified dermatologists can help identify and determine the best treatment for your child’s summer-related skin condition. To discuss any concerns you may have, schedule an appointment online.
