The invention relates to the cosmetic use of a peptide hydrolysate of pea (Pisum sativum L.), as skin-moisturizing active agent. The invention also relates to the use of a cosmetic composition comprising an effective amount of active agent according to the invention in a physiologically acceptable medium, for preventing dryness of the skin or restoring moisturization of the skin. The invention also relates to the use of this novel active agent for preparing a pharmaceutical, in particular dermatological, composition intended for treating pathological dryness of the skin.