A cosmetic composition providing a skin moisturizing effect over extended periods of time when applied to skin in need thereof is provided. The composition comprises a skin moisturizing sufficient amount of an extract of an air plant in combination with a cosmetically or dermatologically acceptable carrier. Also provided is a method for providing a skin moisturizing effect over extended periods of time. The method comprises applying to the skin in need of a skin moisturizing effect, a composition comprising a skin moisturizing sufficient amount of an extract of air plant in combination with a cosmetically or dermatologically acceptable carrier.
