Skin contact with the oil of a poison sumac plant leads to an itchy, burning allergic skin reaction. Poison sumac is considered more allergenic than both poison ivy and poison oak. These are other well-known plants that are also in the Toxicodendron genus of the sumac family.

What does allergic reaction to sumac look like?

A rash from poison ivy, oak, or sumac looks like patches or streaks of red, raised blisters. The rash doesn't usually spread unless urushiol is still in contact with your skin.

Is everyone allergic to sumac?

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac all contain an oil called urushiol (yur-oo-shee-aal). If you have an allergic reaction to this oil, you can develop a rash. Because most people are allergic to this oil, just about everyone who comes into contact with it develops a rash.