Abstract: Soap-based clear cosmetic sticks are disclosed which include 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol in the composition to increase the set temperature, and also the stick hardness. A typical composition of the present invention comprises about 20 to 50%, preferably 28 to 46%, of 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, about 3 to 12%, preferably 4 to 8%, of an alkali metal salt of a C.sub.12-22, preferably C.sub.14-18, fatty acid, about 10 to 42%, preferably 18 to 30%, of a polyhydric alcohol other than 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, and about 5 to 35%, preferably 15 to 30%, water. To achieve the highest set temperature the composition should also contain an alkali metal salt, preferably a sodium or potassium salt, particularly an alkali metal halide such as sodium chloride or an alkali metal chelate such as di-, tri- or tetra-sodium EDTA. The composition will also typically contain a cosmetic active ingredient such as a deodorant active. Preferably the composition will contain less than 0.3%, most preferably less than 0.2%, of C.sub.