The invention relates to the use of one or more compounds selected from the compounds of formulas (Ia) and (Ib), their physiologically compatible salts and their stereoisomeric forms, where R<;1>;, R<;2>;, R<;3>;, R<;4>; and n have the meanings given in claim no.1, for the preparation of a cosmetic formulation. Said use is advantageous in protecting and stabilizing the nucleic acids of human skin cells.