Cosmetic compositions in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion, comprising: (a) at least one monoglycerol fatty acid ester A; (b) at least one first polyglycerol difatty acid ester B; (c) at least one second polyglycerol difatty acid ester C which differs from the first polyglycerol difatty acid ester B; (d) at least one fatty acid ester of the general formula (I): the residues R1 and R2 mutually independently denoting a saturated or unsaturated alkyl residue with 16 to 26 carbon atoms; and (e) at least one skin-lightening active substance. The composition may comprise glyceryl behenate, PEG-3 beeswax, PEG-6 distearate and jojoba esters. The composition may also comprise a UV filter and a mixture of undecane and tridecane.