Compositions and methods pertaining to the topical treatment of skin are disclosed. The present invention relates to topical compositions for regulating the condition of skin, especially for regulating visible and/or tactile discontinuities in skin associated with skin aging, environmental affects and the like. One embodiment of the present invention relates to improving skin with compositions containing one or more non-volatile, slowly absorbed, liquid or semi-liquid organic substances (active agents) via controlled release of active agents associated with mineral-derived tubules such as halloysite nanotubules. For example, the active agents, in the form of organic substances may include vitamin compounds and glycerin, among others.