The invention relates to the use of compounds of formula (I) R-N1-spermidine, i.e. 1.4- butanediamine,N-(3-aminopropyl)-N1-R, (I) H2N - (CH2)3- N1 (R) - (CH2)4 - NH2, as such or in the form of pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives, as active principle in a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition for resisting the effects of skin ageing through an anti-inflammatory action, by topical administration. Such compounds also have an antioxidant activity against oxygen free radicals (ROS) comparable with that of a-tocopherol.
