The use of a lipophilic derivative of an amino acid to stabilize an oil-in- water emulsion containing an organopolysiloxane elastomer and a hydrophilic polymer. An Independent claim is included for a composition for topical application in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion comprising an oily phase dispersed in an aqueous phase and a hydrophilic polymer, one or more organopolysiloxane elastomers and a lipophilic derivative of an amino acid. The composition preferably does not contain surfactant.