Why Wet Concrete Can Burn Your Skin

Many people are surprised to learn that concrete can cause skin burns — but it’s a very real risk.

Wet concrete is highly alkaline, meaning it has a high pH level (often around 12–13). When it comes into prolonged contact with skin, it can break down natural oils and cause irritation or even chemical burns.

These burns don’t always happen immediately. In many cases, the damage develops gradually, which is why people may not realize it’s happening until it becomes serious.

Common situations where this can occur include:

Kneeling in wet concrete
Getting concrete inside gloves or boots
Prolonged exposure during finishing work

Symptoms can range from mild irritation to:

Redness and dryness
Cracking skin
Painful burns in more severe cases

That’s why proper safety precautions are critical:

Wear protective gloves and clothing
Avoid direct skin contact
Rinse off any concrete immediately
Change out of contaminated clothing quickly

At RLW Concrete, safety is always a top priority — both for our team and for anyone around the jobsite.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. For project-specific recommendations, please contact a licensed professional.

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