Abstract: This invention relates to clear aqueous solutions of hydrocortisone which are free of lower alcohols. When applied to the skin, either directly or by wipe, the solution is practically invisible and has a further advantage that the solution will not irritate or dry the skin or give the stinging sensation of an alcohol containing solution. Dissolution of hydrocortisone without alcohol is accomplished by using the anionic surfactant sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate in mixtures of glycerin, propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol diluted to final volume with water.