Abstract: A cosmetic composition is provided which includes water, an emollient oil, a sunscreen agent and an aluminum salt of a C.sub.1 -C.sub.8 carboxylic acid. Preferred as the aluminum salt is aluminum citrate, the latter not only thickening but also stabilizing the emulsion against breakage.

Abstract: A cosmetic sunscreen composition is described that includes an ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, an acrylic polymer such as poly(methyl methacrylate) and a chromophoric organic sunscreen agent capable of absorbing ultraviolet radiation within the range 290 to 400 nm. The ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer and acrylic polymer have been found to interactively boost the SPF value of the organic sunscreen.

Abstract: Thickened cosmetic compositions are provided based upon a thickening system that includes sclerotium gum and a hydrophobically-modified acrylate or methacrylate copolymer. The relative weight ratio of sclerotium gum to the polymer may range from about 1:1 to about 1:30. Compositions according to the present invention may also contain water-soluble vitamins. Interactive viscosity enhancement is particularly evident when free carboxylic groups present on the hydrophobically-modified acrylate or methacrylate copolymer are neutralized with a base thereby forming anionic carboxylate groups.