The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition for skin lightening. An object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic composition for skin lightening that is relatively more efficacious, has relatively better spreading characteristics and acceptable sensory feel. In the present invention, it is found that certain specific salts of acetic acid viz. the potassium and magnesium salts provide enhanced efficacy in skin lightening as compared to other salts of low molecular weight carboxylic acid when incorporated in a cosmetic composition at a certain range.