Pain Relief with Capsaicin Cream

Chili peppers contain an ingredient called capsaicin, which is what makes them hot. According to the Mayo Clinic, topical creams that have capsaicin as an active ingredient will help alleviate pain resulting from neuralgia--pain on the surface skin nerves. There are approximately 15 brand names sold in North America that utilize capsaicin in one topical form or another.

Topical Applications

The products using capsaicin may come in the form of a cream, ointment, gel, liquid or pad. You don't need a prescription to buy these products. Most drug stores, supermarkets and over-the-counter pharmaceutical retailers have an ample selection to choose from. Talk to your doctor about the proper use of these products.

Capsaicin products should not be applied directly to lesions or open wounds. You do not need to wash or disinfect the area prior to applying the product but should take care in washing your hands immediately afterward to prevent inadvertently burning your eyes.

Pain Management

The effectiveness of capsaicin is contingent on the regularity of using the products and the type of pain you are experiencing. It can be used for arthritis, neuropathy that occurs after herpes zoster infections, or diabetic neuropathy. Keep in mind that capsaicin is a pain management method and will not cure any underlying conditions causing the pain.

When applying a product with capsaicin, you will experience a warm, mildly burning sensation at the application site. This is normal and should subside the more you use the product. Should you experience persistent and increased burning, stop using the product and consult a medical care provider. Your pain reduction may vary compared with other users of the product. Some people experience near immediate results while many who suffer from arthritis may take several weeks of regular use to reduce pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. When you stop using the cream, you may find that the pain returns.

For adults and children over age 2, you should be able to apply the product three to four times daily. Consult your pediatrician if your child is younger than 2.