Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, commonly known as pepper spray, is a potent inflammatory agent derived from capsaicinoids found in chili peppers. This oily, resinous substance causes an intense burning sensation upon contact with mucous membranes, skin, and the respiratory system. Exposure leads to involuntary eye closure, temporary blindness, coughing, shortness of breath, and disorientation. Managing the exposure requires immediate action focused on controlling panic and thoroughly decontaminating the affected areas.
Immediate Actions to Minimize Injury
Upon exposure, move away from the contaminated area and seek fresh, open air. Pepper spray particles can linger, meaning remaining in the same space will only worsen symptoms. Focus on controlling your breathing by taking short, controlled breaths to avoid hyperventilation, as the airway is typically not blocked.
Resist the urge to rub your eyes or skin, as this spreads the oil-based capsaicin and drives the irritant deeper into the pores. Rubbing can also cause corneal abrasions. Allow tears and mucus to flow naturally, as this is the body’s initial attempt to flush the irritant away. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately, taking care not to touch your eyes, and discard them, as they are likely contaminated.
Comprehensive Decontamination Procedures
Once safely in a fresh air environment, the priority is to actively remove the oily OC residue from the skin and eyes. Capsaicin is oil-based, meaning water alone struggles to break down the compound, although continuous flushing is still essential.
Skin and Eye Flushing
Start by flushing the affected skin and eyes with copious amounts of cool, clean water for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes. Cool water is beneficial because hot water can open pores, potentially allowing more capsaicin to absorb into the skin.
For eye irrigation, the water stream should be gentle and directed to flow from the inner corner of the eye outward to prevent the irritant from spreading. Continue blinking rapidly during the flushing process to help wash the capsaicin from the surface. If available, a sterile saline solution or eye wash is superior for the eyes compared to tap water.
Washing Residue
After the initial water rinse, gently wash the affected skin using a mild, non-oil-based soap, such as liquid dish soap or baby shampoo. These help emulsify and break down the oily capsaicin. Avoid using oil-based creams, lotions, or moisturizers, as these can trap the irritant and prolong the burning sensation. Apply the soap solution gently, without rubbing or scrubbing, and then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Clothing Removal
Immediately remove any clothing that has come into contact with the spray to prevent secondary exposure. Handle contaminated clothes carefully, preferably with gloves, and isolate them from other laundry. Wash them separately in cool water with detergent; the oily residue may require more than one wash cycle for complete removal. Do not pull contaminated items over your head; if necessary, cut them off to minimize contact with the face and eyes.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
The effects of pepper spray typically resolve within 30 to 60 minutes after successful decontamination, but certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), are at higher risk for severe complications. If you experience severe or worsening difficulty breathing, persistent wheezing, or chest pain, seek emergency medical care.
Medical intervention is necessary if eye symptoms fail to improve after 45 to 60 minutes of continuous flushing. Persistent eye pain, blurred vision, or the inability to open the eyes could indicate a serious injury, such as a corneal abrasion, requiring professional examination. Severe skin reactions, including blistering or chemical burns, also require medical consultation. Symptoms lasting longer than a few hours, or signs of a severe allergic reaction like facial swelling or hives, necessitate seeking care promptly.