A composition comprises a non-ionic surfactant and hydrophobic particles of metal oxide having the mean length of the primary particles in the range from 50 to 90 nm, the mean width of the primary particles in the range from 5 to 20 nm, and the median volume particle diameter of the secondary particles is less than 45 nm. The composition is particularly suitable for use in aqueous media, and can be used in a sunscreen product that exhibits both effective UV protection and improved transparency.
