I have read , many times, of people have great success actually using corn oil, canola oil or olive oil to remove the capsaicin because the capsaicin is oil-based.

I have also read this on some of the boxes holding the tube capsaicin cream.

Many people cannot tolerate this at all! adding water to it seems to make it burn even more, as in trying to rinse it off!

If anyone does try to use this, try in the least percentage of concentration available and gradually build up the percentage!

KrisC- I am so very sorry you've had this experience!

If there might be an inflammatory component involved, one can try a topical NSAID. The formulations are often offered by compounding pharmacists.

I have heard some NSAID topicals are now available through a regular pharmacy (are made in mass quantities). I do not know if these are yet available this way.

I use a topical NSAID, mixed with an anesthetic called bupivicaine.
Mine is compounded according to my doctor's prescription.

(My doc will often consult with the pharmacist to see what formulations/ingredients are the most helpful in specific conditions, etc. This was originally prescribed by my rheumatologist. My orthopedic surgeon is very happy about my using this for pain associated with an ulnar nerve lesion.)

Some have excellent luck with lidocaine alone.

I hope you find something truly very helpful to you, Kris!:hug: