A volatile oily composition includes from 50 to 100% by weight of a mixture of paraffins and from 0 to 50% by weight of at least one non-volatile oil. Cosmetic compositions containing the abovementioned oily composition, and the cosmetic uses of the cosmetic compositions, particularly for making up and/or caring for and/or protecting skin, lips, eyelashes and/or nails, and in antiperspirant/deodorant compositions are also described.