How to use Mace® and Pepper Spray for protection

When it comes to personal safety, pepper spray, Mace®, pepper spray, and pepper gel are effective self-defense tools that can help deter an attacker and give you time to escape. However, simply carrying these products isn’t enough—you need to know how to use them properly. Understanding the differences between pepper spray, Mace®, and pepper gel, as well as the best techniques for deploying them, can make all the difference in an emergency. In this guide, we’ll cover how each type works, when to use them, and essential tips to ensure you’re prepared to defend yourself effectively and safely.

What is Mace®?

Mace® is a brand that manufacturers pepper spray, pepper gel, and other variations of self-defense sprays. Most but not all Mace® contains UV dye to temporarily mark the target for easier identification.

1. Understand Your Spray Type

Pepper spray comes in different delivery methods:

• Fog/mist spray – Covers a wider area but may be affected by wind.

• Gel spray – Sticks to the target and resists wind blowback.

2. Carry It Correctly

• Keep it accessible, not buried in your bag.

• If walking alone, hold it in your hand with your finger near the trigger.

• Ensure the safety mechanism is on until needed.

3. Aim Properly

• Hold the canister at arm’s length, aiming at the attacker’s face.

• Target the eyes, nose, and mouth for maximum effect.

3. Spray in Short Bursts

• Press the trigger in 1- to 2-second bursts, moving side to side if necessary.

• Avoid spraying continuously to conserve spray and maintain control.

• If possible, step back while spraying to maintain distance.

4. Escape and Call for Help

• Once the attacker is incapacitated, immediately run to safety.

• Call 911 or seek assistance as soon as possible.

5. Be Aware of Wind Direction

• Spraying into the wind can cause blowback, affecting you instead of the attacker.

• If windy, angle yourself or use pepper gel, which is more resistant to wind.

6. Practice with a Training Spray

• Many brands offer inert training sprays (without active ingredients) to help you practice aiming and spraying.

• Familiarize yourself with your specific spray’s range and trigger mechanism.

Pepper spray is a non-lethal self-defense tool made from oleoresin capsicum (OC), a natural extract from hot peppers. It is designed to temporarily incapacitate an attacker by causing intense burning, temporary blindness, breathing difficulty, and disorientation. Pepper Spray can contain UV dyes to temporarily mark the target for easier identification.

How to use Pepper Spray

Using Pepper Spray is identical to using Mace as long as it’s not the gel type.

1. Carry It Correctly

• Keep it accessible, not buried in your bag.

• If walking alone, hold it in your hand with your finger near the trigger.

2. Aim Properly

• Hold the canister at arm’s length, aiming at the attacker’s face.

• Target the eyes, nose, and mouth for maximum effect.

3. Spray in Short Bursts

• Press the trigger in 1- to 2-second bursts, moving side to side if necessary.

• If possible, step back while spraying to maintain distance.

4. Escape and Call for Help

• Once the attacker is incapacitated, immediately run to safety.

• Call 911 or seek assistance as soon as possible.

5. Be Aware of Wind Direction

• Spraying into the wind can cause blowback, affecting you instead of the attacker.

What is Pepper Gel?

Pepper gel is an advanced self-defense tool that provides greater accuracy, longer range, and reduced wind blowback compared to traditional pepper spray. Knowing how to use it properly can help you stay safe in an emergency. Follow these steps for effective use.

How to use Pepper Gel

1. Keep It Easily Accessible

• Store it where you can grab it quickly, such as a pocket, purse, or keychain.

• If walking alone, hold it in your hand with your thumb near the trigger for fast deployment.

2. Understand How Pepper Gel Works

Unlike traditional pepper spray, pepper gel comes out as a thick, sticky gel that clings to the attacker’s skin and eyes.

• Longer range – Can reach up to 20 feet, further than most sprays.

• Less affected by wind – Ideal for outdoor use in windy conditions.

• Safer for indoor use – Won’t spread through the air like traditional sprays.

3. Aim for the Attacker’s Face

• Hold the canister at arm’s length and aim for the eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Pepper gel sticks to the skin, making it harder to wipe off.

4. Spray in Short, Controlled Bursts

• Press the trigger in 1- to 2-second bursts instead of continuous spraying.

• If the attacker moves, adjust your aim and spray side to side to cover more area.

5. Step Back and Escape to Safety

• Once the attacker is incapacitated, create distance and run to a safe location.

• Do not wait to see the full effects—leave immediately and call for help.

6. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

• Although pepper gel is less likely to blow back, avoid spraying into strong wind if possible.

• Be mindful of obstacles or other people in your environment before using it.

7. Practice with a Training Spray

• Some brands offer inert practice gels without active ingredients so you can get used to aiming and spraying.

• Learn your gel’s range and spray pattern (most reach 15-20 feet).