The oil from a freshly cut jalapeño contains capsaicin, a chemical compound that causes an intense burning sensation when it contacts the sensitive tissues of the eye. The immediate reaction is often a severe stinging, redness, and profuse tearing, which can temporarily impair vision. Obtaining relief requires immediate and calm action to thoroughly remove the capsaicin, which is highly resistant to simple rinsing.
Immediate Steps to Neutralize the Burn
Capsaicin is a hydrophobic, oil-based molecule, meaning it does not mix with water. Rinsing with plain water alone often spreads the irritant rather than dissolving it, potentially intensifying the burning sensation. Therefore, the initial focus must be on physically flushing the eye and then neutralizing the oily residue.
Start by flushing the affected eye with a continuous, gentle stream of cool, clean water or a sterile saline solution for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This continuous flow is necessary to dilute and wash away as much of the capsaicin compound as possible from the eye’s surface and the surrounding skin. You can achieve this by using a shower, a sink, or a bottle, making sure to hold the eyelid open to allow the fluid to reach all areas.
Once the initial flushing is complete, focus on dissolving the remaining oil. Capsaicin is fat-soluble, meaning it dissolves most effectively in other fatty or oily substances. The protein casein in dairy products can attract and wash away capsaicin, making cold, plain cow’s milk a common home remedy.
To apply this, soak a clean cotton ball or cloth in cold milk and gently place it over the closed eye, or dab the milk around the eyelid area. If only milk is available, it should be used externally around the eye to break down the oil. A mild, non-irritating, oil-based soap, such as tear-free baby shampoo, can also be used to gently wash the skin around the eyelids before a final saline rinse.
Actions That Make the Pain Worse
Rubbing the eye is the worst action, as this spreads the capsaicin oil over a wider surface area and forces it deeper into the skin. Rubbing also risks causing a corneal abrasion, which is a painful scratch on the eye’s surface.
Avoid using regular bar soap or strong detergents near the eye, as many contain fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals that can introduce new irritants to the already inflamed tissue. While mild soaps are suggested for the skin around the eye, they should never enter the eye itself. Similarly, using hot water is counterproductive because it can increase the absorption of capsaicin into the skin and intensify the sensation of heat.
Knowing When Professional Care is Needed
While most capsaicin exposure incidents resolve completely with thorough at-home flushing, certain symptoms require professional medical attention to prevent lasting damage. If the intense pain or irritation persists or increases after 30 minutes of continuous flushing, seek emergency care.
Immediate attention is warranted if you experience changes to your vision, such as persistent blurriness, double vision, or a reduction in clarity lasting longer than a few minutes. Sharp, stabbing, or severe pain in the eye area, or an inability to fully open the eye, suggests a serious injury, such as a corneal abrasion. Signs of potential infection, including excessive swelling, discharge that is not clear tears, or redness that does not subside after several hours, necessitate a visit to an optometrist or emergency room.