How to relieve the hand pain caused by spicy chili

The hand pain caused by spicy chili can be alleviated by rinsing with cold water, applying cooking oil, using acidic solutions, applying cold compress, wiping with alcohol, and other methods. The capsaicin in chili peppers can stimulate the nerve endings of the skin, causing a burning sensation and pain.

1. Rinse with cold water

Immediately rinse the skin area stimulated by chili peppers with flowing cold water for 10-15 minutes. Cold water can help dilute and flush away capsaicin on the surface of the skin, while lowering local skin temperature and reducing burning sensation. Avoid using hot water, as high temperatures can promote the spread of capsaicin and worsen pain.

2. Apply cooking oil

Dip a cotton swab in a small amount of cooking oil and evenly apply it to the painful area. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes and then rinse off with warm water. Oily substances can dissolve capsaicin and help remove irritating substances remaining on the skin. You can choose common edible oils such as olive oil and peanut oil, but be careful not to rub your skin too hard.

3. Mix white vinegar or lemon juice with water in a 1:1 ratio using an acidic solution [SEP], dip it in a cotton ball, and gently apply it to the painful area. Acidic substances can neutralize the alkaline properties of capsaicin and alleviate the burning sensation. Apply for 5-8 minutes each time, repeat 2-3 times. This method should not be used when the skin is damaged.

4. Cold compress treatment

Wrap ice cubes in a clean towel or a refrigerated wet towel and apply to the painful area for 10-15 minutes. Low temperature can temporarily paralyze nerve endings and reduce pain transmission. Be careful to avoid direct contact between ice cubes and the skin. Leave a 1-hour interval between each cold compress to prevent frostbite.

5. Alcohol wiping

Gently wipe the skin area stimulated by chili peppers with a 75% medical alcohol cotton ball. Alcohol can effectively dissolve capsaicin and remove irritating substances from the surface of the skin. After wiping, rinse immediately with clean water to avoid prolonged exposure to alcohol that can cause dry skin. People with sensitive skin should use this method with caution.

It is recommended to wear disposable gloves when handling chili peppers to avoid direct contact. If the pain persists for more than 2 hours or severe reactions such as skin redness, swelling, and blistering occur, seek medical attention promptly. Baking soda solution or milk can be prepared as emergency items in daily life, both of which can effectively neutralize capsaicin. After touching chili peppers, do not rub your eyes or touch other sensitive areas. After handling chili peppers, thoroughly clean your hands. People who frequently come into contact with chili peppers for a long time can use hand cream to maintain the skin barrier function.