What is reason for "burning sensation" while handling the cement?

Question

People who are working as plastering masons complains about the burning sensation of particular brand. How it's happening.?

Answer 1

Traces of Hexavalent Chromium are found in all cement. Hexavalent Chromium is a known allergen . Wet cement is extremely corrosive and quickly destroys skin surfaces. This destruction allows Hexavalent Chromium to easily penetrate skin layers and enter skin cells. This is the reason for burning sensation. Those particular brands may be having larger amounts of Hexavalent Chromium. Another reason is variation of pH of cement solution from pH of human skin (5.5). There are sprays/washes available in market to avoid burning sensation