Tips

Soothing Relief for Pepper-Burned Hands

The burning sensation caused by chili pepper exposure can be alleviated through a myriad of simple home remedies. These include the use of dairy, vinegar, or even cooking oils, all of which can provide relief to affected areas.

Administrator

26 July, 2024

Handling chili peppers, especially when preparing fresh ones, can cause a burning sensation and scalds on your hands. The main culprit behind this is capsaicin – a colorless, odorless chemical compound that stimulates sensory nerves, resulting in a heating sensation.

When capsaicin comes into contact with the skin, it stimulates pain receptors, leading to discomfort and a mild burning sensation if not addressed promptly. Early treatment can help minimize the affected area and prevent complications such as dermatitis or skin darkening after the burn has healed.

How to Soothe Hands Burned from Chili Peppers

Typically, when people get chili on their hands, they immediately rinse their hands with cold water to ease the burning sensation. However, this method is not very effective as water cannot completely remove capsaicin since it is not water-soluble.

Rinsing your hands under the faucet is not an effective way to soothe hands burned from chili peppers. (Image: Meritech)

Here are some quick and easy ways to soothe hands burned from chili peppers.

Use Cold Milk

Capsaicin dissolves well in fat, so milk and dairy products like yogurt or cream can help ease the burning sensation. You can soak your hands in cold milk for about 15-20 minutes or apply a layer of yogurt to the affected area. The fat in the milk will dissolve the capsaicin, effectively reducing the burning feeling.

Use Cooking Oil or Olive Oil

Cooking oil and olive oil are also fats capable of dissolving capsaicin. Applying a small amount of oil to the affected area is an effective way to soothe hands burned from chili peppers. After application, gently massage for a few minutes, then rinse with soap and warm water.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Using apple cider vinegar is an effective way to soothe hands burned from chili peppers. (Image: Gardening Know How)

Apple cider vinegar has a mild acidic property that helps neutralize capsaicin and soothe the burning sensation. You can soak your hands in diluted apple cider vinegar (1:1 ratio with water) for about 10-15 minutes or use a cotton ball to apply it to the affected area.

Use Baking Soda

Baking soda helps soothe and reduce the burning sensation caused by chili peppers. Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, then apply it to the affected area. Let it dry naturally for about 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Baking soda will absorb capsaicin and soothe the skin.

Use Salt Water

Saltwater is also a simple and effective remedy to soothe hands burned from chili peppers. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and soak your hands in this solution for about 15-20 minutes. Salt helps reduce inflammation and eases the burning sensation.

Use Soap and Alcohol

Washing your hands with soap under warm running water helps remove some of the capsaicin, reducing discomfort. (Image: Harvard Health)

Soap and alcohol are both effective in dissolving capsaicin. Washing your hands with soap under warm running water will help remove some of the capsaicin. Afterward, you can use a small amount of alcohol to wipe the affected area. However, keep in mind that alcohol can dry out the skin, so be sure to apply moisturizer afterward.

Use Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has a cooling effect and is excellent for soothing the skin. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to soothe hands burned from chili peppers. Aloe vera also helps moisturize and restore the skin effectively.

Precautions when Treating Hands Burned from Chili Peppers

– Avoid hot water: Hot water will make the burning sensation worse as it increases the release of capsaicin from the skin.

– Avoid touching your eyes and face: Capsaicin can cause severe irritation to the eyes and other sensitive areas. If you accidentally touch your eyes, rinse them with clean water and seek medical assistance if needed.

– Patch test: Before applying any remedy, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction or irritation to the ingredients used.

– Moisturize: Capsaicin and the treatments used can dry out the skin. After cleaning your hands, apply moisturizer to protect the skin.

According to VTC News

Frequently asked questions

There are several effective remedies to soothe pepper-burned hands. Firstly, milk is a great natural remedy; simply soak your hands in a bowl of cold milk for about 15 minutes, and the milk’s natural enzymes will help neutralize the burning sensation and promote healing. Another quick fix is to apply a paste made from baking soda and water to the affected area, which will help alleviate the pain and reduce inflammation. Additionally, natural oils such as coconut, olive, or almond oil can be used to moisturize and heal the skin, providing a protective barrier and speeding up the recovery process.

To avoid pepper burns on your hands, it is recommended to wear plastic gloves when handling spicy peppers. If you don’t have gloves, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after cutting peppers, and avoid touching your eyes or face until you have properly rinsed your hands. Additionally, rubbing a small amount of vegetable oil on your hands before handling peppers can create a protective barrier, making it easier to wash off the capsaicin, which is the chemical compound that causes the burning sensation.

When cutting peppers, it is advisable to use a sharp knife to reduce the risk of accidental cuts and to minimize the release of capsaicin. Always cut peppers in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the spicy fumes, and consider wearing eye protection to prevent any irritation from the pepper juices. It is also beneficial to have a separate cutting board specifically for peppers, as this will prevent cross-contamination and the accidental transfer of spiciness to other foods.

The duration of the burning sensation from pepper burns can vary depending on the severity of the exposure and your individual sensitivity. Typically, it should subside within a few hours, but it may last longer in some cases. To expedite recovery, ensure that you thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water to remove any remaining capsaicin. Applying a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel can also provide temporary relief and help reduce inflammation. Keep your hands moisturized with natural oils or aloe vera gel to promote healing and prevent dryness and flaking.