The use of novel nonionic polymeric thickeners that produce cosmetically useful emulsions of an oil phase and a water phase is described. The thickeners of choice are the urethane dimers of ethoxylated fatty alcohols. These materials were not anticipated to have emulsifying properties. Also, it has been found that the esters of ethoxylated polyols show similar emulsifying behavior, although their uses are limited by their inherent susceptibility towards hydrolysis. Further, many of the emulsions produced with these emulsifiers have a dilatant or shear thickening rheology that is unusual and has unique cosmetic applications. In addition, it is possible to produce high internal phase oil-in-water emulsions, with oil phase concentrations greater than 70%, using these emulsifiers. Finally, many of the emulsions, especially the high internal phase ones, have a characteristic “ring” or vibration that is apparent when their container is tapped. This is a characteristic of so called “microemulsions” that has not been observed in conventional appearing, white (albeit dilatant) emulsions.