Abstract: A novel monophosphate and a novel diphosphate prepared by a phosphatidyl transfer reaction of a phospholipid and an alcohol in the presence of phospholipase D are disclosed. The phosphates can independently or together form small and stable liposomes which can include active components therein. Cosmetic compositions comprising these phosphates or liposomes penetrate well into the hair and the skin, and exhibit long-lasting excellent moisture-retaining, beauty, skin-activation effects.

Abstract: A cosmetic comprises an alkyl phosphate represented by the formula (I): ##STR1## in which R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 independently represent hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having from 1 to 36 carbon atoms, and R.sub.3 represents an alkyl group having from 1 to 36 carbon atoms, and a cosmetic powder.The cosmetic is water-repellent in nature, unlikely to break by sweat and is readily spread on the skin with improved softness due to incorporation of the alkyl phosphate.The cosmetic is prepared by first mixing the cosmetic powder and the alkyl phosphate dissolved in an organic solvent under heating conditions. Subsequently, the solvent is distilled off to form an alkyl phosphate coating on the indivisual particles. The coated particles are mixed with other cosmetic ingredients.

Abstract: Metal salts of monoalkyl phosphates of the following formula ##STR1## in which each R represents a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched hydrocarbon group having from 8 to 32 carbon atoms, and M represents an alkaline earth metal or divalent transition metal.The metal salts are particularly suitable as cosmetic powders, fillers for resins, and lubricants, parting agents and pigment dispersants for polymeric compounds. When used as cosmetic powders, the metal salts improve spreadability, moistness, smoothness, adherence, transparency and covering power of cosmetics.Preparation process of the metal salts is also disclosed.

Abstract: An insect repellent is disclosed which comprises, as essential ingredients, N,N-diethyltoluamide as a repellent component, and an aromatic proton donor in which the aromatic rings are substituted directly by hydroxyl and/or carboxyl groups. This repellent composition has a longer lasting effect due to increased resistance to absorption through the skin.