The stronger acids are employed for their escharotic qualities. “Red wash” (made up from the following formula: zinc sulphate 20 grains, compound tincture of lavender 30 minims, distilled water to make 8 ozs.) has a powerful astringent action and promotes cicatrization, especially when there is a tendency for the granulations to become exuberant. In the treatment of chilblains, a strong astringent is desirable to constrict the diluted capillaries. The stronger _lotio alba_ of the national formulary, containing equal parts of the saturated solutions of zinc sulphate and potassium sulphuret, is markedly astringent and has a drying effect upon the skin. +STYPTICS+ +Styptics.+ These may act either by causing clot formation in the cut arteries, or by causing the retraction of their edges. In the latter class are included such drugs as _hydrastine_ and _adrenaline_. The disadvantage of using these drugs lies in the fact that secondary hemorrhage is possible when their constrictor action is over. The styptics causing clot formation are therefore to be recommended. They should be non-irritating, antiseptic, and styptic, at the same time. Such a preparation is practically unknown. _Peroxide of hydrogen_ on a pledget of cotton, placed over the bleeding area, may effect a clot formation. The U.S.P. _liquor ferri subsulphatis_, better known as Monsel’s solution, is the best and most effective styptic that we have. Monsel’s solution, however, is not antiseptic and entrance of bacteria into the wound is possible, unless, it is applied with a sterile applicator or is dropped directly upon the wound from the bottle. The U.S.P. _tincture of iodine_ in equal parts of water, applied to the bleeding area may, besides sterilizing it, stop bleeding. Should none of the above effect a stoppage of the bleeding, other means must be sought. A bit of sterile gauze pressed quite firmly against the area, should next be tried. If this fails, a wooden applicator, prepared with Monsel’s solution may be employed. A cotton wound applicator, unless dipped into a strongly antiseptic solution, contains millions of bacteria from the fingers. The use of the ancient styptic stick of alum, copper or silver is discountenanced everywhere as uncleanly. +SOLVENTS+ +Solvents.+ Under this heading, those substances which are known to soften tissue will be considered. _Sodium hydroxide_, up to a saturated strength, or an ointment of _salicylic acid_, 5 per cent. to 50 per cent., depending upon the density of the tissue to which it is applied, are the ones commonly used. These two drugs have the power to macerate dry, hard tissues. Experience is necessary for the proper use of tissue solvents as the length of time that they are allowed to act is of as much importance as the strength of the solution. Sodium hydroxide solution can be instantly neutralized with any acid and for this reason is preferable. +OINTMENTS+