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
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