Provided is a cosmetic in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion unckuding (A) a salt of higher fatty acid component containing a liquid higher fatty acid and (B) an oil-soluble ultraviolet absorber, being substantially free of a hydrophilic surfactant other than the (A) component and having a pH of 7.1 to 9.5 and a method for production thereof. The cosmetic having ultraviolet protection efficacy is excellent in fresh feel, water resistance and rinsability using water with soap when applied to the skin and storage stability. The cosmetic is suitable for sunscreen cosmetics and is also useful for makeup cosmetics such as foundation and makeup base, skin care cosmetics such as milky lotion, cream and serum and hair cosmetics.
