Abstract: The use of at least one &ggr;-RAR receptor-specific agonist ligand to prepare a pharmaceutical composition for increasing the rate of apoptosis in at least one cell population in which apoptosis may be induced by activating &ggr;-RAR receptors is disclosed. The composition is particularly useful for treating a disease or disorder related to an insufficient rate of apoptosis in at least one cell population in which apoptosis may be induced by activating &ggr;-RAR receptors. The use of at least one &ggr;-RAR receptor-specific agonist ligand as the apoptosis inducer in a cosmetic composition is also disclosed. Said composition may be used to prevent and/or control photo-ageing or chronological ageing of the skin.