Abstract: A skin preparatory composition for use in conjunction with electrocardiograph and electroencephalograph monitoring electrodes containing karaya gum in an amount sufficient to adhere the electrodes to the skin, sodium citrate in an amount which imparts sufficient electrolytic properties to the composition, an abrasive in an amount effective to reduce the impedance of the skin to a satisfactory level when the composition is applied thereto, and a vehicle for these constituents. The karaya gum effectively removes any perspiration, dirt, natural body oils, moisturing oils and lotions, and the attendant electrical interference from the skin. A wetting agent in an amount sufficient to aid in solubilizing the karaya gum in the vehicle and a preservative in an amount sufficient to extend the useful life of the composition may also be incorporated in the composition.