Carefully disperse the Carbopol 934 in the water. After dispersion is complete, add the sodium hydroxide with slow speed agitation to prevent excessive inclusion of air. Add the zinc oxide in the same manner. Mix to homogeneity. A sample prepared in this fashion had a viscosity of 60,000 cps (Brookfiled, 20 rpm) and a pH of 8.1. It is important to add the zinc oxide to the neutralized Carbopol 934 mucilage. Zinc oxide added to an unneutralized Carbopol 934 dispersion will immediately flocculate. It is also important that the neutralized mucilage have a minimum viscosity of 15,000 cps (Brookfield, 20 rpm) and a minimum pH of 7.0. Final pH after zinc oxide addition must be at least 8.0. Addition of glycerin, lanolin or other emollients would enhance spreadability and prevent excessive drying of the skin.