The disclosed invention relates to a cosmetic composition containing at least one branched oligo-α-olefin, characterized in that the side chains at one branch point at least are ethyl, propyl or longer branched alkyl chains, the branched oligo-α-olefin being obtainable by oligomerization of a) at least one branched α-olefin containing 5 to 18 carbon atoms, b) at least one linear α-olefin containing 4 to 10 carbon atoms, c) a mixture of a branched α-olefin containing 4 to 18 carbon atoms and a linear α-olefin containing 3 to 18 carbon atoms or d) a mixture of various branched α-olefins containing 4 to 18 carbon atoms and linear α-olefins containing 3 to 18 carbon atoms in the presence of a catalyst selected from the group consisting of organic acids, cationic ion exchangers, silica gels, layer silicates, inorganic acids or Lewis-acid-based catalysts. The specific oligo-α-olefins are distinguished by particularly high spreading power, by an improved sensory impression of the final cosmetic formulation and by particularly good stability in antiperspirant/deodorant formulations.