The present invention relates to topical compositions comprising erythrulose and a retinylester selected from the group consisting of retinyl acetate, retinyl propionate, retinyl linoleate, retinyl retinoate and/or retinyl formyl aspartamate, preferably retinyl acetate as well as the use thereof for the prevention and/or treatment of ailments associated with an overpopulation of microbial cells such as fungi and bacteria.
