A soothing topical substance is an OINTMENT, which is an 8-letter word. Ointments are semi-solid preparations that are applied to the skin for therapeutic or protective purposes. They are typically made from a combination of oil and water, with other ingredients such as waxes, fats, and emulsifiers added to create a smooth texture. Ointments are used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including dryness, itching, inflammation, and infection.