Abstract: This invention designs cosmetic compositions for improving the appearance of skin and nails. The invention provides a cosmetically acceptable composition for removing the appearance of wrinkles and for hardening nails. A method for reducing the appearance of wrinkles according to the invention comprises applying to the skin a cosmetic composition comprising an effective amount of a superabsorbent ionic: polymer or copolymer comprising acrylate and/or acrylamide monomers or other suitable highly hydrophilic polymer in a topically acceptable vehicle, and allowing the vehicle to dry, so as to immediately and temporarily reduce all appearance of wrinkles without forming a visible film. The invention also encompasses a method for hardening nails, comprising repeatedly applying to the nails a cosmetic composition comprising an effective amount of a polymer of an acrylamide and/or acrylate monomer in an acceptable vehicle, so as to cause a desirable hardening of the nails after repeated use.