The invention relates to topical sunscreen emulsion comprising an oil phase and a water phase, wherein said emulsion comprises a phosphate ester emulsifier, phytantriol and an amount of at least 1 wt.-% based on the total weight of the topical sunscreen emulsion of at least one UV-filter substance. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of phytantriol for improving the water resistance of such topical sunscreen emulsions.