A method of extemporaneous preparation of a cosmetic composition with the texture of a cream by contacting a liquid phase with a solid powder comprising a gelling agent of the liquid phase and mineral or organic particles with surface properties giving a weak affinity with the liquid phase and a cosmetic active principle. The contact my be either by mixing of a separate liquid phase into the powder phase or the liquid phase may be included in the powder phase encapsulated or immobilized on it and the liquid phase release by mechanical action, such as application to the skin. Independent claims are included for (1) a composition for use with the method； (2) for a composition which transforms into a cream on application and consists of a solid powder comprising the liquid phase encapsulated or immobilized on the surface of a solid； (3) for a kit comprising a compartment containing the powder composition and a compartment containing the liquid phase； (4) the use of a starch modified with carboxymethyl groups as a gelling agent for the instantaneous and extemporaneous preparation of a water based cosmetic composition； (5) the use of modified mica particles as a gelling agent for the instantaneous and extemporaneous preparation of an oily phase based cosmetic composition
