The burning sensation on your hands after cutting chili peppers can indeed be uncomfortable, but don't worry, this situation can be alleviated through some simple methods. The spiciness in chili peppers mainly comes from a compound called capsaicin, which stimulates the nerve endings on the skin, causing a burning sensation. Below, let's see how to effectively solve this problem.
Firstly, you can try soaking the affected hands in milk or yogurt. Capsaicin is lipid-soluble, meaning it can dissolve in fats, and the fat in milk can help neutralize capsaicin, thereby reducing the burning sensation. In cases where there is no milk at home, vegetable oil can also be a good substitute. Gently massage the hands with oil, then rinse them off with warm water after a few minutes, and you will usually feel much better.
Secondly, using vinegar or lemon juice is also a good method. These acidic substances can neutralize the alkaline properties of capsaicin, thereby relieving the burning sensation. Just soak your hands in vinegar or lemon juice for a few minutes, then rinse them with water. However, be careful, if there are wounds on your hands, you may feel a stinging sensation, so use them with caution.
Another simple method is to repeatedly wash your hands with soap and warm water. Although this may require multiple repetitions, for most people, this method is the most convenient. Soap helps remove oils from the skin, thereby washing away capsaicin. When washing your hands, try using a brush to gently scrub between the fingers and around the nails to ensure thorough cleaning.
If the above methods fail to completely eliminate the burning sensation, consider using some hand creams or gels containing aloe vera. Aloe vera has natural soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin discomfort. After application, let it absorb naturally, and you will usually feel significant relief.
Wearing gloves when cutting chili peppers can effectively prevent this situation from occurring. Although this may seem troublesome, in the long run, especially for people with sensitive skin, this is undoubtedly a good habit. I hope these methods can help you quickly get rid of the burning sensation after cutting chili peppers and make you feel more at ease in the kitchen.
