How are Self Defense Sprays Made? There are 3 main ingredients that go into self defense sprays. Two of them are types of tear gas and called CS and CN. They irritate the membranes and cause uncontrolled tear flow and mucous discharge. It’s amazing when you see the stopping power of just this irritant alone.

The 3rd and most common ingredient is OC (Oleoresin Capsicum), which is the hot part of chili peppers. OC is not only an irritant, it is also an inflammatory agent and when it contacts the mucous membranes it causes choking and an unbelievable burning sensation. It can also cause temporary blindness from the burning pain.