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The Effects of Pepper Spray & Tear Gas

Pepper spray and tear gas are popular defense products used by police departments and private individuals. Tear gas is used mainly for crowd control, but pepper spray is more commonly used to subdue violent individuals.

  1. Pepper Spray and Tear Gas

    • Tear gas is the common name for two manmade chemicals, CN and CS gas. Pepper spray, oleoresin capsicum, is made from a combination of peppers, including hot cayenne pepper.

    Skin Irritants

    • Both tear gas and pepper spray are skin irritants, causing a burning pain to affected areas and excess drainage from eyes, nose, mouth and lungs.

    Nasal Effects

    • Both tear gas and pepper spray can cause excess sneezing and mucus secretion. An excessively running nose usually follows exposure to both chemicals.

    Respiration

    • Pepper spray and tear gas can cause a dry cough, involuntary gagging and wheezing. Burning can be felt in the throat, causing difficulty breathing and speaking.

    Eyes

    • Both pepper spray and tear gas cause reddening, swelling and a stinging sensation in the eyes. Pepper spray can cause involuntary closing of the eyelids.

    Time of Effects

    • Tear gas effects last for a shorter time than pepper spray, usually from five to 30 minutes. The effects of pepper spray last for a longer period, anywhere from 20 minutes to two hours.

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