Pepper spray, scientifically known as Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), is an inflammatory agent derived from the capsaicinoids found in chili peppers. The active chemical, capsaicin, is responsible for the intense burning sensation experienced when the spray contacts the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Exposure triggers immediate involuntary eye closure, temporary blindness, and respiratory distress, which typically lasts between 20 and 90 minutes. Understanding the proper steps for decontamination is necessary for quickly minimizing the discomfort and preventing further irritation.
Immediate Action Upon Exposure
Immediately move away from the contaminated area and into fresh air. Pepper spray particles can linger, so moving to a well-ventilated space prevents further inhalation and skin contact. Focusing on slow, deep breaths is helpful, as the sensation of restricted breathing is temporary and rarely indicates a complete blockage.
Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this action spreads the oil-based chemical, intensifying the pain. Instead, encourage continuous, forceful blinking. This promotes the production of tears, which serves as the body’s natural flushing mechanism to wash the irritant away. Keep hands away from the face until they have been thoroughly cleaned to avoid cross-contamination.
Effective Decontamination Techniques
Capsaicin is an oily resin that does not dissolve easily in water alone. Initial decontamination should focus on flushing the eyes with copious amounts of cool, clean water for a prolonged period, ideally 15 minutes or more. The water must be cool, not hot, as warmth can open the pores and increase the absorption and burning sensation.
Tilt the head to one side and pour the water from the inner corner of the eye toward the outer edge. This prevents the contaminated water from running into the unaffected eye. A surfactant is necessary to break down the oily nature of the OC.
After the initial water rinse, a mild, non-oil-based soap or baby shampoo mixed with water can be gently applied to the skin around the eyes and face. Soaps act as surfactants that can emulsify the oil-based capsaicin, lifting it from the skin’s surface. Care must be taken to avoid getting the soap directly onto the eyeball, which could cause additional irritation.
Contaminated clothing should be removed, cutting it off if needed rather than pulling it over the head. The affected skin, including the hairline and ears, should be washed thoroughly with the mild soap and rinsed again with cool water. Commercial decontamination wipes are available, but the immediate and continuous application of cool water and a mild soap remains the most accessible and effective method for neutralizing the oily residue.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most symptoms from pepper spray exposure resolve within an hour of effective decontamination, but certain situations require professional medical evaluation. Persistent eye pain, significant blurred vision, or the inability to open the eyes after about 45 minutes of active flushing could indicate a more serious complication like a corneal abrasion. These warrant an examination by a healthcare provider.
Severe or worsening difficulty breathing, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), needs immediate medical attention. If you wear contact lenses, they must be removed immediately and discarded, as they trap the capsaicin and can cause prolonged irritation. Symptoms that last longer than 24 hours, such as persistent skin blistering or eye redness, also signal the need for a medical consultation.