The present invention relates to a cosmetic use of a phenyl-butyric acid, a derivative or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, like 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PB) or its sodium salt. Particularly, the present invention provides cosmetic articles comprising phenyl-butyric acid, a derivative or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, like 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PB) or its sodium salt, especially at a low daily dosis for cosmetic use for treatment of various cosmetic problems of body surfaces such as hair, skin etc..
