Pepper Spray is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to be able to defend themselves from an attacker. This is a non-lethal form of defense and one of the biggest advantages to using pepper spray, as opposed to a knife or your fists, is that it can help keep some distance between you and an attacker. They come in various sizes that can be concealed in a pocket, purse, keychain, or in a holster on your hip.

I'm sure you've heard of and are familiar with people using pepper spray for self-defense but what exactly is inside of these canisters? According to Vedder Holsters, "Pepper spray, also known as Mace, capsicum spray, or OC spray, is an aerosol spray containing oil that causes burning, pain, and tears if it makes contact with someone's eyes." 

The same chemical that makes peppers spicy is the main ingredient, at a much higher concentration, when used for self-defense.

Iowa Pepper Spray Laws

The good news for anyone who may want to use pepper spray as a form of self-defense is that it is legal to use, in all 50 states, for self-defense circumstances. If you cross state lines or leave Iowa, you won't have to worry about whether or not you're breaking the law.

According to Pepper-Spray, it is legal to buy, carry, use, and ship to Iowa. You must be at least 18 years old and cannot have any convicted felonies on your record. The state of Iowa doesn't place any restrictions on the size of the dispenser or its ingredients.

So according to Pepper-Spray, Iowa does have an age restriction when it comes to carrying pepper spray. To answer our question "Are high schoolers allowed to carry pepper spray?" The answer is...eventually. If someone turns 18 and is still in high school, then yes, high schoolers are allowed to carry pepper spray.

It should also be noted that if you do possess pepper spray, there are certain areas it is prohibited. According to World Population Review, pepper spray is not allowed on commercial airlines and if you are caught doing so, you can receive a felony. Pepper spray is also prohibited in government buildings and state establishments.

If you would like to carry pepper spray as a form of self-defense you are certainly allowed to in the state of Iowa. As long as you are 18 and are not a felon, using pepper spray is a great resource for preventing an attack.