Cement burns are a serious injury caused by contact with wet concrete or mortar, which can rapidly lead to deep tissue damage. When water is added to cement powder, it forms calcium hydroxide (hydrated lime), giving the wet mixture a highly alkaline pH, typically between 12 and 13. This corrosive alkali breaks down skin proteins, fats, and collagen. Unlike heat burns, the pain from a cement burn can be delayed, allowing the chemical to continue damaging the skin without immediate sensation, making rapid action necessary.
Immediate First Aid Steps
The first step is to remove all contaminated material from the affected area. Immediately take off any jewelry, watches, or clothing that has come into contact with the wet cement, as these items can trap the corrosive substance against the skin. If the cement is still in a dry, powdered form, use a dry cloth or brush to carefully remove it before introducing any water.
Once contaminated items are removed, the area must be flushed immediately and continuously with copious amounts of cool, running water. The goal of this flushing is to dilute the alkaline residue and lower the skin’s pH level to halt the chemical reaction. Flush the affected hand for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes under a gentle stream of water to ensure the chemical is completely washed away.
To further counteract the high alkalinity of the residual cement, some experts suggest applying a mild acid solution to the flushed area. This can be achieved by briefly soaking the hand in a bath of diluted vinegar or citrus juice after the initial, prolonged water flushing. Water flushing remains the primary and most effective first aid action, and the use of an acidic neutralizer should only follow thorough rinsing.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
Professional medical attention is required immediately if the cement burn shows signs of moderate to severe injury. Seek help if the burn area is larger than the palm of your hand, affects sensitive areas such as the joints, or is on both hands. Any sign of blistering, severe pain, or a change in skin color to white, gray, or black indicates a deep tissue burn that needs immediate assessment.
Upon arriving at a medical facility, the team will assess the depth of the burn, determining if it is a partial-thickness or full-thickness injury. Treatment often involves thoroughly cleaning the wound through debridement, where damaged tissue is removed to prevent infection and promote healing. Specialized dressings will be applied, and the patient may receive a tetanus shot, as chemical burns carry a risk of infection.
In cases of full-thickness burns, where damage extends through all layers of the skin, more involved procedures may be necessary. This can include surgical intervention, such as skin grafting, to repair extensive tissue loss. The medical team will also manage pain and monitor the burn’s progression, as alkali burns can continue to worsen for hours or days after the initial exposure.
Post-Treatment Wound Management
After initial treatment by a healthcare provider, careful at-home wound management is necessary to prevent infection and encourage recovery. Keep the treated area clean and dry, following the doctor’s specific instructions for changing the specialized dressings. Use a mild soap and water to gently wash the area as directed, avoiding harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol that can slow healing.
The doctor may advise applying a thin layer of an antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to the wound before covering it with a sterile, non-adherent bandage. Change the dressing as frequently as instructed, usually daily, to maintain a clean healing environment. Do not break any blisters that may form, as the skin beneath them provides a natural barrier against infection.
Watch the wound closely for signs of a developing infection, which requires immediate medical re-evaluation. Symptoms to look for include:
- Increased redness or swelling around the burn site.
- The presence of pus.
- An odor emanating from the wound.
- A developing fever.
To help manage discomfort and swelling, a healthcare provider may approve the use of over-the-counter pain relievers. Keeping the hand elevated above the heart level can also help reduce swelling.