Pepper sprays have become very common and practical self defense products. They are generally made from an aerosolized from of capsaicin, a chemical based on extracts from chili plants. It is the descendent of mace pepper spray which included CN gas, originally developed as chemical weapon during World War 1, but which is seldom used today due to issues of dispersion and legality. The best pepper spray gases usually contain 15% capsaicin, and include UV dyes so that assaulters sprayed with the spray can be identified by police. It is effective against any mammals, especially when used in the face and eyes, though it can create a burning. There are several different styles of pocket pepper spray sold for self defense use. The most common is the pepper spray key chain, but pepper spray can also be sold disguised in everyday objects like pens or rings.
