Abstract: A method and a composition for treating and remedying the consequences of burns, scalds and other skin affections resulting in an acidose. An aqueous buffer solution having a pH value of 8-10, preferably 8.5-9, is applied to the affected skin areas, immediately or very soon after the burning, scalding or other affection has taken place, and the application is, if necessary, repeated or continued. Skin which has been treated in this manner does not undergo the more or less profound blistering and damaging which is otherwise inevitable after burning or scalding. The composition preferably comprises a base, a surface-active agent and a fatty acid.