The present invention relates to a topical composition comprising glycerin, microcrystalline cellulose and/or microcrystalline wax and silica beads having a particle size Dv0 of greater 0.3 μm, a Dv100 of less than 35 μm, a Dv50 selected in the range of 9 to 15 μm and an oil absorption capacity selected in the range of 1.2-2.5 cc/g. Furthermore the invention relates to the use of such beads in combination with microcrystalline cellulose and/or microcrystalline wax to ameliorate the short and long-term sensory properties of a topical composition comprising glycerin.