Mace is a liquid tear gas that can be sprayed from a pressurized container. It causes a burning sensation and makes the eyes fill with tears. When sprayed on the skin or eyes, Mace can cause temporary disability, but it usually has no lasting effects. If inhaled, it may cause severe, though temporary, irritation of the air passages in the lungs, resulting in coughing and choking. Mace can be ineffective when sprayed on a person who is under the influence of stimulant drugs. Mace and Chemical Mace are trademarks of Mace Security International. But other companies make similar liquid chemical irritants.
Many police departments use Mace and other irritant sprays to help control riots and violent demonstrations. Some civilians carry containers of Mace for self-defense. Such sprays can be used on individual targets without affecting people nearby.
