A self-reversible reverse microlatex composition comprising an oil phase, an aqueous phase, at least one W/O surfactant, at least one O/W surfactant, and a branched or a crosslinked polyelectrolyte, wherein the W/O surfactant and the O/W surfactant mixture have a HLB from about 9.5 to about 10, and the polyelectrolyte is either a homopolymer or copolymer or a combination thereof based on at least one monomer containing a strong or weak acid function. Further, the composition may be used in the cosmetic, dermopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, textile, paper, and/or paint industries, or as a thickener for printing pastes based on pigments or dyes.