The use of ester quats in compositions, the ester quats producing a sand-repellent action for the compositions, comprising cosmetic compositions, and the use of these cosmetic compositions having a sand-repellent action for topical application, for example for protection of the skin against ultraviolet radiation are provided. The present application in particular relates to the use of at least one ester quat based on alkanolamines in compositions, the ester quats producing a sand-repellent action for the compositions, and the acyl component of the ester quats being derived from (a) monocarboxylic acids, (b) dicarboxylic acids, (c) tricarboxylic acids, or their mixtures.