Mace is a registered brand name of a non-lethal self-defense spray, manufactured by Mace Security International, headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Mace Inc. has two main divisions, one of which sells security products.

Mace Inc. makes three different formulas of self-defense spray: Triple Action, PepperGard or Pepper Mace, and Pepper Foam. All sprays are meant to be directed into the face of an assailant.

Mace Triple Action combines pepper spray, tear gas and UV Ultra-Violet dye for an all-out assault on any would-be attacker. The pepper spray is made from hot cayenne peppers, the active ingredient being oleoresin capsicum (OC). Pepper spray is an inflammatory agent that causes temporary blindness and difficulty breathing, which can last up to 90 minutes. Tear gas is an irritant that induces coughing, while the dye, referred to as UV Ultra-Violent for its color purple, stains the attacker for later identification.

PepperGard and Pepper Mace contain 10% OC pepper solutions and the UV Ultra-Violet dye, but do not contain tear gas.

Pepper Foam is the same as PepperGard and Pepper Mace except that it sprays in the form of thick foam rather than a liquid. It also includes the UV Ultra-Violet dye.

Aside from human attack, pepper spray is useful against animal attacks and can be carried in small leather holsters that are widely available. These are often seen dangling from the belts of mail carriers. Some cans are small enough to hang from a key chain. Pepper spray is also effective against bear or mountain lion attacks and can be a life-saving tool when camping, hiking, or even jogging through rural areas.

Some states have restrictions pertaining to self-defense sprays and for this reason Mace Inc. also makes specialty sprays, like Michigan PepperGard Personal and Wisconsin Personal. Check with your local Police Department for any restrictions that may apply in your area.