- Always wear gloves when handling raw chiles. If its oils get into any small cuts or abrasions on your hands, it will feel like the cut or abrasion is on fire.
- Never bring your hands near your eyes during or after working with fresh chiles.
- Keep some vinegar on hand to neutralize the oil from the chile if it comes in contact with your skin.
- Be very careful of the hotter chiles like the habanero. It has been known to create first degree burns.
- Gently wash your hands and arms after working with the chiles. The chiles oils will need soap to break them up.
Tips For Working With Fresh Chiles Don't burn yourself. And I don't mean on the stove.
By Chelsie Kenyon, About.com
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