While I do not dare to give you an direct answer on your question I want to give you two recommendations: 

1. The next time try a mixture of vegetable oil and sugar. The sugar works as an mild abrasive agent and the vegetable oil binds with diesel. Then do a second cycle with ordinary soap / hand wash creme.
2. After exposing your skin to such an alkali ordeal you should care for your hands: Some bee-wax based hand creme should be fine, avoid the ones with excessive perfume