Removal of Sikaflex 290 DC pro from hands

[Robert Silverstone]

I have been stupid enough to install Sikaflex 290 DC Pro caulking to a boat deck without using gloves. I now have loads of on my hands which I can't remove. At the time, white spirit removed the solid parts but I am left with black stains on the skin. Can anyone recommend a list of solvents that can be used to retrospectively remove this product. Many thanks,
Robert.

 

[derod]

Hi Robert, last time I did this I used meths and a nylon pan scourer, then wore a pair of nitrile gloves for a few hours and the sweat from my hands removed a fair amount.

 

[AntarcticPilot]

The natural exfoliation of your skin will remove it in due course! I'd be cautious of solvents and harsh mechanical methods; they may do more damage than leaving it alone until natural processes remove it.

 

[fredrussell]

Wonder wipes live up to their name.

 

[rogerthebodger]

Once its cured Sikaflex can only be reovd by removing the skin which will happed over time over several days

 

[AntarcticPilot]

Once its cured Sikaflex can only be reovd by removing the skin which will happed over time over several days

When a teenager doing A-level chemistry, I got my hands stained with fluorescein dye. It wore off eventually!

 

[john_morris_uk]

Once its cured Sikaflex can only be reovd by removing the skin which will happed over time over several days

Exactly. A pumice stone and soap and hot water will remove skin (and with it cured Sika-flex.) I don’t think there’s a known solvent once it’s fully cured. Certainly not one you’d put your fingers in.

 

[RunAgroundHard]

Hi Robert, last time I did this I used meths and a nylon pan scourer, then wore a pair of nitrile gloves for a few hours and the sweat from my hands removed a fair amount.

I would be very cautious about this as it might increase the probability of dermatitis if any residues were introduced below the skin. Happy to be told this is wrong, as it is just a guess, no knowledge beyond using chemicals and reading the data sheets.

 

[KevinV]

As above, leave well alone, it'll come off over just a few days, and you'll have something interesting to tell anyone who asks.
The only thing I've found that works is acetone, and it's not very kind on the skin.

 

[john_morris_uk]

As above, leave well alone, it'll come off over just a few days, and you'll have something interesting to tell anyone who asks.
The only thing I've found that works is acetone, and it's not very kind on the skin.

I’ve not even found that acetone works on cured Sika-flex. I agree that it works very well on uncured.

 

[laika]

While you’re waiting for it to fall off with your skin, consider it a badge of honour: people will look at you and silently nod their approval at your “practical boat owner” hands

 

[waynes world]

uncured then Acetone, cured...nature will do it. no big deal, shows your a grafter that looks after your own boat.

 

[wonkywinch]

If you don't like wearing gloves, next time rub some barrier cream (eg Rozalex) before getting stuck in.

 

[wonkywinch]

If you don't like wearing gloves, next time rub some barrier cream (eg Rozalex) before getting stuck in.

 

[PaulRainbow]

Automotive panel wipe will easily wipe it off before it dries.

 

[cpedw]

What gloves do people use for this kind of job? Things that I have tried are either so flimsy that they don't survive putting them on or too thick for delicate work.

Derek

 

[Boathook]

What gloves do people use for this kind of job? Things that I have tried are either so flimsy that they don't survive putting them on or too thick for delicate work.

Derek

I use Black Mamba Super Tough Disposable Gloves Large | Toolstation Not cheap but a lot tougher than the thin ones I used to buy. Possibly other makes around.