What is the management for burning hands after touching chilli?

Management of Burning Hands After Touching Chilli

For burning hands after touching chilli peppers, wash the affected area with vegetable oil or another oily substance for the most effective long-term relief. 1

Immediate Management Algorithm

1. First-line treatment:

   • Apply vegetable oil to the affected area and gently rub for 1-2 minutes 1
   • Alternatively, use other oily compounds such as:
     • Cooking oils (olive, canola, etc.)
     • Dish soap (which contains oils that can bind to capsaicin)

2. Second-line options:

   • Cool tap water immersion for 5-20 minutes (provides good initial relief) 1, 2
   • Avoid using ice or very cold water directly on the skin as this can cause additional tissue damage 2

3. For persistent symptoms:

   • Apply milk (whole or skim) to the affected area 3
   • Milk products work well due to both their protein content and fat content binding to capsaicin 3

Mechanism of Injury and Relief

Capsaicin, the active component in chilli peppers, binds to the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptors in the skin, causing the burning sensation 4. The burning is not an actual thermal burn but rather an irritant contact dermatitis 4.

Oily substances provide superior long-term relief because:

• Capsaicin is lipophilic (fat-soluble) and binds readily to oils 1
• Vegetable oil helps dissolve and remove the capsaicin from the skin receptors 1

Important Considerations

• Do not use:

  • Ice directly on the skin as it can cause tissue damage 2
  • Home remedies like butter (which can trap heat and bacteria) 2
  • Adhesive tape on irritated skin 2

• When to seek medical attention:

  • If pain persists for more than a few hours despite home treatment
  • If there are signs of allergic reaction (significant swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • If there are signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, swelling) 2

• For severe cases:

  • High-potency topical steroids may provide additional relief 4
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs can help manage pain 2

Prevention Tips

• Wear gloves when handling hot peppers
• Avoid touching face, eyes, or other sensitive areas after handling chilli peppers
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and oil after handling peppers, even if wearing gloves

Remember that while the burning sensation can be intense and uncomfortable, capsaicin-induced irritation from chilli peppers typically resolves completely without long-term effects.