A hair cosmetic composition which comprises xanthan gum and/or terracand gum, as well as an oxidizing agent. When the composition is made into, such as, a permanent wave second agent, permanent hair dye agent or a hair bleaching agent, xanthan gum and/or tarracand gum are effective in thickening the agents to prevent the running-down of the liquid agent in use, thus successful in protecting the skin fom the liquid.