4 Simple Kitchen Hacks To Relieve Chilli Burns On Hands Fast
Share this article:
Cutting green chilies is a common kitchen task that often comes with an unpleasant side effect: a fiery burn on your hands. This burning sensation, caused by capsaicin - the oily compound found in chili peppers - can linger for minutes, turning cooking into an uncomfortable experience. Surprisingly, water isn’t helpful; it spreads the capsaicin, intensifying the sting. Fortunately, there are easy, budget-friendly kitchen hacks to neutralise the burn and bring instant relief.
Why Your Hands Burn From Chilli
The capsaicin oil in chilies is concentrated in the white membranes surrounding the seeds. When it comes into contact with your skin, it binds to nerve receptors, causing the familiar tingling and burning sensation. This is why simple rinsing with water often worsens the discomfort.
1. Apply Cooking Oil
Cooking oil can be a quick fix for chili burns. Apply a generous amount of mustard or coconut oil to the affected area, leave it for a few minutes, and wash with warm water and soap. Repeat if necessary. The oil dissolves capsaicin, helping to remove the heat from your skin.
2. Soak Your Hands In Cold Milk or Curd
Dairy products are excellent for calming chili burns. Submerge your hands in cold milk or plain curd for 10–15 minutes. The fats in dairy bind to capsaicin, neutralising the burning effect. For persistent heat, repeat the process until your hands feel normal again.
Also Read: How To Get Rid Of Stubborn Smell From Mixer Jar With Simple DIY Hacks
3. Use A Lemon and Salt Scrub
A natural lemon and salt scrub can help remove residual chili oils. Mix rock salt with lemon juice and gently scrub your hands for 1–2 minutes. Rinse with cold water to remove leftover capsaicin. Note: Avoid this method if you have cuts or sensitive skin, as it can sting.
4. Apply A Cold Compress
Cold compresses provide immediate relief from the lingering burn. Soak a cloth in ice-cold water and place it on your hands or immerse your hands in a bowl of ice water. Repeat as needed to cool down the affected area and reduce discomfort.
Extra Tips To Prevent Chili Burns
Also Read: Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks to Save Time on Busy Weekdays
Dealing with chilli burns on hands doesn’t have to be painful or stressful. With simple kitchen hacks like using cooking oil, soaking in cold milk or curd, applying a lemon-salt scrub, or trying a cold compress, you can quickly soothe the burn and get back to cooking comfortably. Remember, prevention is just as important - wear gloves, pre-oil your hands, and avoid touching your face while handling chilies. These easy tips ensure your cooking experience stays enjoyable and burn-free.
Why Your Hands Burn From Chilli
The capsaicin oil in chilies is concentrated in the white membranes surrounding the seeds. When it comes into contact with your skin, it binds to nerve receptors, causing the familiar tingling and burning sensation. This is why simple rinsing with water often worsens the discomfort.
1. Apply Cooking Oil
Cooking oil can be a quick fix for chili burns. Apply a generous amount of mustard or coconut oil to the affected area, leave it for a few minutes, and wash with warm water and soap. Repeat if necessary. The oil dissolves capsaicin, helping to remove the heat from your skin.
2. Soak Your Hands In Cold Milk or Curd
Dairy products are excellent for calming chili burns. Submerge your hands in cold milk or plain curd for 10–15 minutes. The fats in dairy bind to capsaicin, neutralising the burning effect. For persistent heat, repeat the process until your hands feel normal again.
Also Read: How To Get Rid Of Stubborn Smell From Mixer Jar With Simple DIY Hacks
3. Use A Lemon and Salt Scrub
A natural lemon and salt scrub can help remove residual chili oils. Mix rock salt with lemon juice and gently scrub your hands for 1–2 minutes. Rinse with cold water to remove leftover capsaicin. Note: Avoid this method if you have cuts or sensitive skin, as it can sting.
4. Apply A Cold Compress
Cold compresses provide immediate relief from the lingering burn. Soak a cloth in ice-cold water and place it on your hands or immerse your hands in a bowl of ice water. Repeat as needed to cool down the affected area and reduce discomfort.
Extra Tips To Prevent Chili Burns
- Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from direct contact with chili oils while chopping.
- Pre-Oil Hands: Lightly coat your hands with cooking oil before handling chilies to make cleanup easier.
- Hands Off Your Face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth while working with chilies to prevent accidental burning.
Also Read: Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks to Save Time on Busy Weekdays
Dealing with chilli burns on hands doesn’t have to be painful or stressful. With simple kitchen hacks like using cooking oil, soaking in cold milk or curd, applying a lemon-salt scrub, or trying a cold compress, you can quickly soothe the burn and get back to cooking comfortably. Remember, prevention is just as important - wear gloves, pre-oil your hands, and avoid touching your face while handling chilies. These easy tips ensure your cooking experience stays enjoyable and burn-free.
Next Story