The invention provides an aqueous-based composition which comprises a) at least one bispyridinium alkane (for example octenidine) and b) at least one stabilizer selected from antioxidants, complexing agents, reducing agents, UV filters and photoprotective agents, in particular α-tocopherol, and BHT. The composition can also comprise c) one or more auxiliaries selected from, for example, nonionic surfactants, ethers, solvents and polymers, in particular fatty alcohol alkoxylates and alkoxylated fatty acid monoglycerides. The presence of the stabilizer reduces or prevents the appearance of decomposition products of bispyridinium alkanes and, in the case of the presence of auxiliaries, of decomposition products of the auxiliaries, such as ethers and peroxides.
