The present invention relates to a cosmetic and/or dermatological composition comprising in a physiologically acceptable medium at least one merocyanine derivative of formula (1) or (2) and/or its E,E-, E,Z- or Z,Z-geometrical isomer forms: comprising specific polar groups consisting of hydroxyl- and ether-functionalities. Another object of the present invention relates to a cosmetic process for controlling and/or improving the darkening of the skin under exposure to UV radiation and the homogeneity of the colour of the complexion which comprises the application onto the skin of a cosmetic composition as above defined. Another object of the present invention relates to a cosmetic process for protecting the keratinic materials and particularly the skin against photo-ageing which comprises the application onto the keratinic material of a cosmetic composition as above defined.