Surgical adhesive strips are often used for closure of some wounds or to minimize tension on sutures after closures. The package insert of the type most commonly used (Steri-Strip), indicates that the application of compound tincture of benzoin, U.S.P. (CTB) increases strip adhesion. The increase in adhesive power by CTB was compared with a preparation containing gum mastic (Mastisol). The study clearly demonstrated that the latter preparation provided a markedly more adhesive strength than that obtained with CTB.