Abstract: Aerosol compositions are provided that enhance the therapeutic action of ointments by producing, upon topical application thereof, a sustained cooling effect that provides fast relief form pain and itching as well as a tendency to shrink swollen, inflamed tissue. The compositions contain oils, thickening agents for the oils, and propellant. Aqueous solutions, therapeutic ingredients and various adjuvants may also be present. The specific propellant and the proportion used are selected to provide a deposit with a temperature of about −5° C. to about +5° C. In this temperature range, the deposit is cold enough for the required therapeutic effect, but not so cold as to cause pain or tissue damage. The choice and proportion of thickening agents used are selected to provide a deposit that does not flow or spread. Were the deposit to spread, it would present a large surface area from which propellant present in the deposit would evaporate rapidly.