Pepper spray is composed of a compound derived from hot peppers. It irritates the eyes, resulting in a burning feeling, pain, and temporary blindness. Nonetheless, pepper spray is an effective nonlethal weapon when used properly. However, if it gets onto your skin, it may cause significant discomfort.
The capsaicin in pepper sprays binds to pain receptors; thus, measures that can help reduce the burning sensation and irritation are needed. Let’s look at how to stop pepper spray burns on the skin.
What to Do Immediately After Exposure?
Get to Fresh Air
If you’ve been pepper sprayed, the first thing to do is get to fresh air. This helps limit further exposure and the spread of the spray. If you are indoors, move away from the contaminated area and get into an area with good airflow. Open windows or doors.
Remove Contaminated Clothing
Pepper spray residue can remain on clothing, so remove any clothing that got sprayed. Be careful not to touch contaminated areas of clothing, and turn the clothing inside out as you take it off. Place contaminated clothing in a sealed plastic bag.
Flush the Affected Area
Rinse off the pepper spray with cool water. Continue washing for an hour or until every ounce of the spray is gone. Please refrain from using hot or warm water because it can intensify the burning sensation. If you like, you may use mild soap while cleaning.
Dry and Clean the Area
Use a clean, dry towel to gently pat dry the affected part. Rubbing aggravates and creates irritation, so it should be avoided.
Use Topical Creams
Several topical creams can provide relief from pepper spray irritation on the skin. Creams containing lidocaine or benzocaine can numb the skin and relieve the burning sensation. Aloe vera gel is also very soothing. Apply a thick layer of cream over the affected area. You can reapply as needed.
Take Antihistamines
Antihistamines like diphenhydramine can help reduce skin inflammation, swelling, and itching caused by pepper spray. Non-drowsy antihistamines are preferable if you need to stay alert. Follow dosage recommendations on the label.
Apply Cold Compresses
Applying something cold can help ease the burning sensation of pepper spray. Wrap some ice cubes in a washcloth or paper towel and apply to the irritated area for 10-15 minutes. You can also use cold gel packs. Do not apply anything frozen directly, as it can damage skin.
Avoid Hot Temperatures
Exposing the pepper spray-irritated skin to heat can worsen the burning, so avoid hot showers, baths, and direct sunlight. Heat causes the capsaicin to be released faster, intensifying irritation. Keep the skin cool until symptoms are reduced.
When to Seek Medical Care?
You can treat pepper spray skin irritation at home with the above methods. However, you may need medical assistance if:
- The burning persists for more than 45 minutes after taking self-care steps.
- The pain is severe, or the area is blistering.
- You experience a headache, vision changes, or breathing difficulty after exposure, as the spray may have been inhaled.
- You have a pre-existing condition like asthma that may be aggravated by pepper spray.
Seek emergency care if you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, seizures, loss of consciousness, etc.
Preventing Exposure
Here are some tips to avoid getting pepper spray on your skin:
- Wear goggles if exposed to pepper spray, such as during police training.
- Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and close-toed shoes when handling pepper spray.
- Never touch your face or rub your eyes if you encounter the spray.
- Carry a solution of dish soap and water when carrying pepper spray. This can help rinse off residue.
- Position yourself upwind if you anticipate being exposed to pepper spray.
