A method of inactivating enveloped virus comprises contacting said virus with a virucidally effective amount of a composition comprising a C1 to C3 monohydroxy alcohol or a C3 to C4 diol and a sufficient amount of an acid to adjust the pH of the composition to below 4.6. Topical administration of the composition is preferred and is effective in treating lesions associated with herpes infections. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present method are provided.