Runners are notorious for hitting the trails mid-summer and occasionally go ‘off-roading’ into uncharted territory. While playing the part of your favorite 15th century Spanish explorer may be fun; rummaging through overgrown paths significantly increases your chances of being exposed to poisonous greenery such as poison oak, poison ivy, and sumac. The result is a nasty rash that can last for days and spread like a summer wildfire.
If you have yet to find the love of your life, this is not a risk you can afford taking!
A few weeks ago I was hiking with my in-laws in beautiful Marin county—my mother-in-law’s old stomping grounds. She was determined to show us kids the trail she used to hike as a kid. We started up the hill on no clear path, but we were forewarned of the unclear trailhead. Determined to bring my mother-in-law back to the place she so fondly remembered, we searched high and low through all sorts of funky looking greenery—some we were certain was poison oak. After many wrong turns and trails ending in what looked like the leftovers of one heck of a high school party, we gave up!
Lucky for us there was a drug store at the bottom of the hill. Knowing that we had been in contact with poison oak, we went straight to the back to request information from the pharmacist. This is when I first discovered Tecnu!
What is Tecnu?
A skin cleansing solution that removes the invisible rash causing oil called “urushiol” from skin, tools, clothing and pets.
What is Urushiol?
Urushiol (ū-rū′shē-ōl), is the oily organic allergen found on plants such as poison oak and ivy and sumac. It is the rash-causing agent.
When should you use Tecnu?
As soon as possible following exposure. The solution is most effective within the first 2-hours following exposure.
Directions for use provided by Tecnu:
- Apply Tecnu to exposed unwetted skin within 2-8 hours after exposure to poisonous plants.
- Rub virousouly for 2 minutes to remove oil and other contaminents from skin. If hyper-sensitive, wash entire body with Tecnu.
- Rinse skin clean with cool running water or wipe off with a cloth. Repeat!
Tecnu is a product all runners and outdoorsy adventurists should have on hand. In order to optimize it’s effectiveness by using it within the suggested 2 hour window following exposure, you may want to consider storing a bottle in your car. Remember, it’s better to be safe than the talk of your office or school. Next time you’re at the drug store, pick up a bottle–you will be glad you did!
Prices vary depending on location of purchase.
Tecnu is now available in Canada and can be purchased at www.tecnu.ca
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