The present invention provides a composition for topical administration to the skin for treating and/or preventing a dermatological condition involving an abnormal decrease in the cell-to-cell adhesion between epithelial cells comprising a zinc salt which is at least partially soluble in water and an acid, wherein the composition has a pH less than or equal to 6. The dermatological condition is generally selected from eczema, dermatitis, atopic eczema, atopic dermatitis, non-atopic eczema, non-atopic dermatitis, seborrheic eczema, irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, pruritus and sensitive skin. A preferred composition comprises zinc lactate, lactic acid and has a pH of about 4.0 to 5.0.