A saline solution for a clinical or cosmetic use which consists essentially of a solution in water of sodium ions in major amount and potassium ions in minor amount, together with physiologically acceptable counter ions, being isotonic or optionally slightly hypertonic or hypotonic with respect to blood plasma or tears or an otherwise relevant biological fluid, and being substantially free of calcium ions, magnesium ions, phosphate ions, bicarbonate ions and also glucose, sucrose, food starch or other glucose-releasing saccharides, for use as a more cell-friendly alternative to normal saline.