Pepper spray is a powerful self-defense tool, but if you ever get sprayed by accident-or during practice-the burning and irritation can be overwhelming. Knowing how to get rid of pepper spray quickly and safely can save you from a lot of discomfort. In this article, we’ll walk you through simple, effective steps to remove pepper spray from your skin, eyes, and clothes, so you can feel better fast.
What Happens When Pepper Spray Hits Your Skin?
Pepper spray contains oleoresin capsicum (OC), a chemical derived from chili peppers. This compound causes intense burning, redness, and inflammation by irritating your skin and mucous membranes. The effects usually last about 20 to 30 minutes but can feel much longer if not treated properly. The key to relief is to act quickly and carefully.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Rid of Pepper Spray
1. Move to Fresh Air Immediately
If you’re indoors or in a confined space, get outside or to a well-ventilated area as soon as possible. Fresh air helps reduce continued exposure to the spray particles and eases breathing.
2. Avoid Touching Your Face or Eyes
Don’t rub or touch your skin, eyes, or face. Scrubbing can spread the pepper spray and worsen irritation. Keep your hands away from your eyes to prevent transferring the irritant.
3. Flush the Affected Area with Cool Water
Rinse the sprayed area with a gentle stream of cool water for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid hot water, which can open pores and make the burning worse. For eyes, blink frequently while rinsing under running water or use saline solution if available.
4. Use Mild Soap or Dishwashing Liquid
After rinsing, wash the area with a mild, fragrance-free soap or a gentle dishwashing liquid like Dawn. These soaps help break down the oily capsaicin compounds in pepper spray. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
5. Apply a Cold Compress
To soothe inflammation and reduce redness, apply a clean, cold compress or a damp cloth to the affected skin after washing. This helps calm the burning sensation.
6. Use Oil-Based Cleansers (Optional)
If irritation persists, applying a small amount of baby oil, coconut oil, or olive oil can help lift remaining capsaicin from the skin. Massage gently, then wash again with soap and water to remove the oil.
7. Try Dairy Products for Relief
Milk or yogurt contain casein, a protein that can help neutralize capsaicin. Applying cold milk to the skin or eyes (careful not to get it in the eyes if applying on the face) may provide additional comfort.
8. Clean Contaminated Clothing Separately
Wear gloves when handling clothes exposed to pepper spray. Wash contaminated clothes separately with detergent to avoid spreading the irritant.
What Not to Do When Removing Pepper Spray
– Don’t rub or scrub the area – this spreads the irritant and worsens the burn.
– Avoid hot water – it opens pores and intensifies pain.
– Don’t use oily lotions or creams immediately, as they can trap the pepper spray on the skin.
– Avoid touching your eyes or face with contaminated hands.
When to Seek Medical Help
If symptoms persist beyond 45 minutes, worsen, or if you experience difficulty breathing, severe eye pain, or swelling, seek medical attention promptly. Some people may have allergic reactions or require professional treatment.
How to Remove Pepper Spray from Eyes
– Flush eyes gently with cool water or saline for 10-15 minutes.
– Blink frequently to help wash out the spray.
– Avoid rubbing or applying any oils.
– Use artificial tears if available.
– Seek medical help if irritation or vision problems continue.
How to Remove Pepper Spray from Clothes and Surfaces
– Wear gloves to handle contaminated items.
– Wash clothes separately with detergent.
– For surfaces, use a mixture of water, dish soap, and a little white vinegar to clean thoroughly.
– Ventilate the area well to clear the air.
Pepper spray is effective for protection but can be painful if you get exposed. With these simple steps-cool water rinses, gentle soap, cold compresses, and sometimes dairy products-you can quickly ease the burning and get back to feeling normal.
Relief is just a few steps away! Stay safe and prepared.