The present invention relates to a method for the cosmetic treatment of dry skin or of a dry scalp, comprising the topical application to the skin or the scalp of a composition containing, in a physiologically acceptable medium, at least one alkyl ether of hydroxystilbene with a saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched C1-C6 alcohol. The composition may be used for cosmetic purposes, for treating drying out of the skin, in particular after the menopause, or for dermatological purposes, for treating disorders associated with oligoseborrhoeic dry skin, in particular forms of dermatitis.
