Pepper spray is a self-defense aerosol that incapacitates and deters attackers. This spray can be used to defend yourself, loved ones and property from a variety of threats, including robbery, kidnapping and home invasion. It is available in many forms, from canisters that fit easily into your purse to portable aerosol devices that are easy to carry on a belt or attached to a keychain.
The primary component of pepper spray is an oil, called oleoresin capsicum, that comes from plants in the genus Capsicum. This oil contains much higher concentrations of capsaicin than chili peppers. It also contains a range of other inert ingredients such as propylene glycol to stabilize and thicken the spray.
Oleoresin capsicum is a powerful, volatile chemical that can be irritating to the eyes and throat. It can cause pain and temporary blindness in some people, but these effects are usually self-limiting.
Symptoms are usually felt in a few minutes after exposure to pepper spray, but they can last up to 30 minutes. Eye irritation, dilation of the capillaries, tearing and swelling are common, although these effects usually resolve on their own within an hour. Respiratory symptoms can include shortness of breath, coughing and a burning sensation. In rare cases, it can cause cyanosis or blue discoloration of the skin.
In most states, it is legal to possess pepper spray for self-defense. However, each state has its own laws that regulate the use of this spray. In New York, for example, it is only legal to purchase pepper spray if it is in the form of a pocket-sized aerosol that must be purchased in person at a licensed pharmacy or firearms dealer. The buyer must be at least 18 years of age and cannot have any felony convictions on their record.
It is illegal in most states to distribute pepper spray. This includes selling it to someone under the age of 18. It is also illegal to use pepper spray to prevent a public official from performing their duties.
Police use of pepper spray has been controversial, particularly when used against civilian protestors. The 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, for example, saw a number of instances in which police were caught using this spray.
The majority of pepper sprays contain a blend of oleoresin capsicum and other ingredients. These may include CS tear gas or UV dye to enhance the respiratory effects. They also may contain a numbing agent, such as iodine, to make the effects of pepper spray less painful and less likely to result in injury.
Some formulations also contain a deodorant agent to help repel odorous attackers. Most pepper sprays have a safety valve trigger mechanism that makes them easy to deploy in an emergency situation.
Most pepper sprays contain oleoresin capsicum, which is a powerful, volatile chemical that can cause pain and inflammation in the eyes and throat. It can also cause a burning sensation, temporary blindness and swollen capillaries.
The most common symptoms are teary eyes, burning, dilation of the capillaries and a feeling of tightness in the throat. Some individuals may feel lightheaded or nauseated, though these are not often serious symptoms. A cough or shortness of breath may persist for a few minutes after being sprayed, especially in those with lung conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).