As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors—whether hiking, gardening, or just enjoying nature—poison ivy has become an all-too-familiar nuisance. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from calamine lotion to prescription creams, but recently I came across Marie Originals Poison Ivy Soap and figured it was worth a try. I wasn’t expecting a miracle, but I was curious to see if a simple bar of soap could help ease the discomfort. Here’s my honest take, from the first impression to the results after repeated use.
Packaging
The soap is packaged in a recyclable cardboard box, which aligns with the brand’s natural, eco-conscious image. The design is clean and clearly communicates its purpose, though it leans more toward functional than flashy. You’ll find useful information on the box, including ingredients, usage directions, and warnings. Inside, the soap is wrapped in paper, offering an added layer of tamper evidence. While you can’t see the soap until it’s opened, the packaging does a good job of being both protective and informative.
Ingredients
One of the main reasons I was drawn to this soap is its use of natural, plant-based ingredients. It includes bentonite clay, organic oat bran, and herbal extracts like white willow, comfrey, sassafras, grindelia, and plantain—all traditionally known for their soothing properties. The base is made of saponified oils like soybean and coconut, which add a touch of moisture.
The formula is free from parabens, phthalates, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrances, which is a huge plus. While the clay can be a bit drying with frequent use, it’s a trade-off I’m willing to accept for its ability to draw out irritants. Although the soap itself isn’t fully organic, some of its ingredients, like organic calendula, are certified, which speaks to the brand’s quality commitment.
Scent
This soap has a very mild, earthy scent, likely due to the combination of clay, oats, and herbs. There’s no added fragrance, which I appreciated, especially when dealing with sensitive skin. It smells clean and herbal without being overpowering, and the scent fades quickly after rinsing. Its subtlety and neutral aroma make it a solid choice for anyone, regardless of gender or scent preference.
Lather and Application
Unlike commercial body washes that foam excessively, this soap produces a creamy but moderate lather—which is typical for products containing clay. It glides on smoothly and spreads well over the skin. Rinsing takes a little extra time, likely due to the clay content, but it wasn’t a major issue. I followed the suggestion to wash the area soon after contact and leave the lather on for about a minute before rinsing. The slightly gritty texture from the oat bran adds gentle exfoliation, and I noticed a calming effect almost right away.
Effectiveness
This is where the soap really impressed me. When used promptly after exposure, it seemed to prevent a rash from forming altogether, or at least reduced the severity. On existing rashes, it offered immediate relief from itching and helped dry out any oozing areas.
I’ve used other treatments like calamine lotion, but they take longer to work. This soap felt faster, and more convenient to use during a regular shower. For milder outbreaks, it worked so well that I didn’t need any other treatment. I also tested it on mosquito bites and some general skin irritation—it definitely helped reduce itchiness. It’s become my go-to bar not only for poison ivy but also as a preventative wash after yard work or hikes.
Size and Lifespan
The standard bar is around 2.9 oz (82 grams), which is compact but surprisingly long-lasting—especially since you’re only using it on small, targeted areas. It’s a hard bar, so it doesn’t melt away quickly like some handmade soaps. Just make sure to store it on a draining soap dish to extend its life. There’s even a 1 oz travel size that’s perfect for hiking packs or camping trips. While the clay might stain light-colored cloths slightly, it washes out easily.
Brand Reputation
Marie Originals has built a strong reputation as a natural, cruelty-free brand. They’re Leaping Bunny certified, woman-owned, and focused on offering herbal remedies based on traditional wisdom. Their commitment to using non-GMO ingredients, minimal additives, and clear labeling really stood out to me.
The product is made in the USA, which is often a plus for those who value local production. From what I’ve seen, the company has a loyal customer base and mostly positive reviews. While they don’t detail every aspect of ingredient sourcing, they provide enough transparency to feel trustworthy.
Price and Value
At $7 to $10 per bar, it’s certainly more expensive than your average soap—but not unreasonable for a specialty treatment product. When compared to other poison ivy treatments like Tecnu or Zanfel, it’s competitively priced. Plus, the fact that it actually works makes it feel like money well spent.
You can often find discounts, bundles, or free shipping through the company’s website. They even offer subscription options, which are great if you go through multiple bars during peak outdoor months. In the long run, it may even save you from more expensive medical treatments.
Availability
Another highlight is how widely available the soap is. I’ve seen it at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, in supermarkets like Whole Foods, and even in outdoor supply shops. Of course, it’s easily found online via Amazon, Walmart, and the Marie Originals website. Whether you’re picking it up last-minute before a camping trip or planning ahead, it’s accessible. They also offer bulk packs if you’re stocking up for the season.
- Fast, noticeable itch relief
- Helps prevent rashes if used immediately
- Natural, plant-based ingredients
- Free of synthetic fragrances and chemicals
- Cruelty-free and USA-made
- Suitable for other skin irritations like bug bites
- Available in travel size and bulk options
- Can be drying if overused
- Slightly more expensive than regular soap
- Earthy scent might not appeal to everyone
Overall Rating
Overall, I’d give Marie Originals Poison Ivy Soap a 4.5 out of 5. It’s effective, easy to use, and made with ingredients I trust. No, it’s not a luxurious spa product—but that’s not what it’s trying to be. It’s a focused solution for a specific problem, and it works better than most alternatives I’ve tried. I’ll definitely be keeping it on hand year-round.
Limitations and When to Seek Medical Help
It’s important to remember that this soap is a helpful remedy, not a cure. If your rash is severe, widespread, or on sensitive areas like your face or genitals, you should seek medical help. The same goes if you experience signs of infection—such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever—or any difficulty breathing or swallowing, which could indicate a serious allergic reaction.
In short, it’s a great tool to have in your anti-poison ivy kit, but know when to step back and let the professionals take over.
For outdoor lovers like me, Marie Originals Poison Ivy Soap might just become a new seasonal staple. I’ve got one in my bathroom and another in my backpack—just in case.
