A novel treatment for topical inflammatory conditions such as acne, eczema, shingles, insect bites and hives is provided, consisting of the application of a pharmaceutical cream or ointment which incorporates hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (“HPMCAS”) in a micronized form and which preferably contains one or more thickeners, a bio-adhesive agent and water so that the formulation, when applied, can stick to the area to be treated.