The present invention relatesto topical compositions containing solidparticles that are stabilized via encapsulationinto a cross-linked silicone matrix. The solidparticles are preferably formed of a metaloxide, such as zinc oxide or titaniumdioxide, and the cross-linked silicone matrix ispreferably formed by cross-linking a siliconehaving branched reactive alkoxyl moieties inthe presence of a stannous carboxylatecross-linking agent. The stabilized particlesof the present invention can readily be usedeither alone or in combination with otherskin care actives to form topicalcompositions with improved stability andperformance.
