Exposure to pepper spray (Oleoresin Capsicum or OC spray) is immediately painful and requires fast action due to its inflammatory nature. The active ingredient, capsaicin, is an oily substance extracted from chili peppers that binds to pain receptors, causing intense burning, involuntary eye closure, and temporary respiratory distress. Because capsaicin is oil-based and not water-soluble, it sticks to skin and clothing. Immediate and proper decontamination is necessary to limit the duration and severity of the effects by neutralizing and removing the oily residue quickly.
Stopping the Spread and Initial Flushing
The first step is to move away from the contaminated area into an environment with fresh, circulating air to prevent further exposure and ease respiratory symptoms. Resist the impulse to rub or wipe the affected areas, as this spreads the oily capsaicin residue and drives it deeper into the skin’s pores, intensifying the discomfort. Focus on managing the most sensitive areas first.
If your eyes are affected, flush them immediately and continuously with cool water or a saline solution for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Blink rapidly while flushing to help mechanically remove the capsaicin particles. If you wear contact lenses, remove and discard them right away, as they absorb the oily irritant and cannot be effectively cleaned.
Once immediate symptoms are addressed, remove all contaminated clothing to prevent the irritant from spreading or causing re-contamination. Cut off clothing that must be pulled over the head, such as t-shirts, to avoid dragging the residue across your face. Seal the contaminated items in a plastic bag for later washing before proceeding with the full skin decontamination process.
Step-by-Step Skin Decontamination
The key to removing OC spray is understanding that capsaicin is an oil, requiring a degreasing agent, not just water, to break its bond with the skin. Use cool or cold water throughout the washing process. Hot water causes pores to open, which can trap the oily capsaicin and increase the burning sensation. Start by wetting the affected skin with cold water and then applying a liberal amount of a degreasing agent like dish soap, laundry detergent, or a specialized OC decontamination wipe.
Gently lather the agent onto your hands and other exposed skin without harsh scrubbing, which could further irritate the skin. The detergent works by emulsifying the oily capsaicin, allowing it to be rinsed away. Rinse the area thoroughly with cold, running water, and repeat this washing, lathering, and rinsing cycle multiple times—often eight to ten repetitions—to ensure complete removal of the oil.
Some methods suggest using a carrier oil, such as vegetable oil, or whole milk before the detergent wash. The theory is that capsaicin binds to the fat in these substances, making subsequent soap washing easier. If this method is used, immediately follow it with the detergent wash to remove the newly contaminated oil or milk film. Specialized decontamination products are also available that are formulated to neutralize the capsaicin and are used by emergency responders.
Managing Residual Discomfort and Knowing When to Seek Help
Even after thorough decontamination, anticipate residual discomfort, including a lingering burning sensation, redness, and slight swelling, which can persist for 20 to 90 minutes. Manage this residual burning by standing in front of a fan or using a cool compress on the affected skin. Avoid applying any creams, lotions, or oils, as these oily substances can trap remaining capsaicin and reactivate the irritation.
Full recovery time depends on the spray concentration and decontamination effectiveness, but mild irritation can last for a few hours. Focus on breathing slowly and deeply to calm the respiratory system; coughing and shortness of breath usually resolve as the effects wear off. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms that suggest a more serious reaction.
These symptoms include severe or worsening difficulty breathing, persistent eye pain, blurred vision, or an inability to keep your eyes open. Medical care is also necessary if you notice chemical burns or blistering on your skin. Seek help if your overall symptoms worsen instead of improving after 45 to 60 minutes. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or other respiratory issues are at a higher risk for complications.