The present invention relates to topical compositions containing solid particles that are stabilized via encapsulation into a cross-linked silicone matrix. The solid particles are preferably formed of a metal oxide, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and the cross-linked silicone matrix is preferably formed by cross-linking a silicone having branched reactive alkoxyl moieties in the presence of a stannous carboxylate cross-linking agent. The stabilized particles of the present invention can readily be used either alone or in combination with other skin care actives to form topical compositions with improved stability and performance.
