A composition for treating wounds of the skin, such as those caused by the bites of small insects or jellyfish, includes a wax or resin, an emulsifier, and ammonium hydroxide. The composition is applied to the skin in a thin layer, and when it dries, it forms a thin, protective film over the wound. Application of the composition has been found to provide temporary and immediate relief of pain and/or itching. The protective film shields the wound, and therefore aids in healing. The composition can be made of any of a variety of waxes or resins, and the emulsion can be formed with long-chain alcohol or fatty acid soaps, such as oleic acid or triethanolamine.
