A method of making a cationic oil-in-water emulsion having a sparkling pearlescent appearance comprising the steps of:I. blending(a) from about 0.1% to 5% based on the total weight of the emulsion of at least one cationic surfactant selected from the group consisting of quaternary ammonium compounds of the formula ##STR2## where R.sup.1 is an alkyl group having an averageof 8 to 23 carbon atoms, R