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First of all, Mace is a registered brand name. All of Mace's products now are either straight OC Pepper Spray and/or Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)/Tear gas combinations, foam or gel. Don't get Mace confused with Pepper Spray. The actual chemical compound of Mace has not been used for 15 years. Mace is an irritant that is very similar to tear gas causing coughing and is on irritant. On the other hand. Pepper spray will cause inflammation of the capillaries in the eyes causing temporary blindness, nausea, cut off all but life support breathing and crate a very strong burning or stinging sensation.

Tear gas and Mace generally work on the pain principle, but that's sometimes not enough for an assailant who is under the influence of certain drugs, alcohol, someone who may be psychotic or just doesn't feel pain. Pepper Spray on the other hand, works to physically incapacitate the assailant, regardless of pain tolerances.

The active ingredient in pepper spray is oleoresin capsicum (OC), a chemical found on cayenne peppers (hence the name 'pepper' spray). When this is sprayed into someone's face, the OC affects the eyes, throat, nose and lungs. The capillaries in the eyes instantly dilate, causing the eyelids to shut. The bronchial tubes swell tightly, making it hard for the attacker to breathe. The effects last a few minutes to 45 minutes, depending on the concentration of OC ' long enough for the would-be victim to get away and contact the police.

Pepper Spray is available in many formats as in spray, foam or gel. It also comes anywhere from large cans to small canisters that can fit on a key chain. Mace Triple Action combines pepper spray, tear gas and UV Ultra-Violet dye for an all-out assault on any attacker. The UV dye is used for its color purple, which stains the attacker for later identification. Pepper foam is the same as PepperGard and Pepper Mace except that it sprays in the form of thick foam instead of a liquid. It also included the UV dye.

Some states have restrictions pertaining to self-defense sprays. It is the responsibility of the comsumer to check with your local Police Department for any restrictions that may apply in your area.