Mixture comprising esters of saturated C16-C18 fatty acid and unsaturated C16-C18 fatty acids with 2-ethyl-hexyl alcohol, said esters being in an amount ranging from 90% to 100% by weight with respect to the total weight of the mixture. The cosmetic compositions containing such a mixture formulated in topical form have a moisturizing, emollient, elasticizing and skin compactness and smoothness improving action.