Pepper spray, or Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, is an inflammatory agent derived from the Capsicum family of chili peppers. This oil-based substance attaches to pain receptors on the skin and mucous membranes, triggering an intense burning sensation, temporary blindness from involuntary eye closure, and respiratory distress. Because the effects are immediate and severe, rapid and correct decontamination is a time-sensitive process to minimize the duration of discomfort. The hydrophobic nature of the capsaicin oil means water alone is not fully effective, necessitating a specific protocol for its safe removal from the skin.
Immediate Decontamination Protocol
The first step after exposure is to move immediately to an area with fresh air, to avoid inhaling lingering aerosolized particles. Remaining calm is important, as panic can increase heart rate and breathing, potentially worsening the effects of the irritant. While avoiding rubbing the skin, which can push the oil deeper into pores, the next action is to carefully remove all contaminated clothing.
Contaminated garments should be cut off, rather than pulled over the head, to prevent spreading the capsaicin oil to the face and eyes. Place all clothing into a sealed plastic bag for separate washing to avoid cross-contamination of other surfaces or laundry. Once clothing is removed, the exposed skin should be flushed continuously with cool, clean water for at least 15 to 20 minutes to wash away the contaminants and soothe the burning sensation.
Following the initial rinse, wash the affected skin areas gently with a mild, oil-free soap or detergent, such as dish soap or baby shampoo. The detergent is crucial because the surfactants in the soap help to break down the capsaicin oil, allowing it to be washed away with water. Gently lather the area without harsh scrubbing, which can reactivate the burning sensation. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel, taking care not to rub, and repeat the washing process if the intense burning persists.
Treating Sensitive Areas
The eyes and respiratory tract require specialized attention due to the sensitivity of their mucous membranes. For the eyes, the most effective treatment is prolonged, continuous irrigation with cool water or saline solution for a minimum of 15 minutes. The flow of water should be directed from the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) outward, ensuring the irritant drains away from the unaffected eye.
During irrigation, blinking rapidly and repeatedly helps to flush the chemical irritant from the surface of the eye. If contact lenses are worn, they must be removed immediately and discarded, as they can trap the capsaicin and cause prolonged irritation. For the respiratory tract, controlled breathing is important, as the spray causes irritation and inflammation of the mucous membranes, leading to coughing and shortness of breath.
Sipping cool water can help soothe a burning throat and manage persistent coughing, but avoid swallowing any contaminated water from rinsing the mouth or lips. If the lips or mouth were exposed directly, gently rinse them with clean water, making sure to spit the water out. Moving to a calm, well-ventilated space and focusing on slow, deliberate breaths can help manage the temporary sensation of restricted breathing.
Common Mistakes and Ineffective Remedies
A common mistake is instinctively rubbing or wiping the affected skin or eyes immediately after exposure. Rubbing actively spreads the capsaicin oil, increasing the surface area of contamination and pushing the oil deeper into the skin’s pores, which intensifies the pain. Never use towels, cloths, or hands to rub the area until decontamination is complete and the hands are thoroughly washed.
Another error is attempting to neutralize the oil with other oil-based products, such as lotions, creams, or petroleum jelly. Since capsaicin is an oily substance, applying these products will only dissolve and spread the irritant, trapping it against the skin and delaying relief. Applying warm or hot water should be avoided, as heat causes pores to open, which increases the rate of capsaicin absorption into the skin, making the burning sensation worse.
When Emergency Medical Attention Is Necessary
The effects of pepper spray are designed to be temporary, typically resolving within 30 to 60 minutes after effective decontamination. However, certain symptoms require professional medical evaluation, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Seek immediate medical help if you experience:
- Severe or worsening difficulty breathing.
- Persistent wheezing.
- Chest tightness.
These symptoms indicate a potentially dangerous inflammatory reaction in the airways. Signs of an allergic reaction, including hives, significant swelling of the face or throat, or blistering of the skin, also necessitate immediate emergency care. If the intense ocular pain, blurred vision, or inability to open the eyes persists for longer than 45 to 60 minutes, a medical professional should examine the eyes for potential corneal damage. Seek medical attention to ensure no lasting harm occurs, especially if at-home decontamination efforts fail to bring substantial relief within an hour.