The sun gives us warmth, energy and joy — but too much exposure can take its toll on the skin. Long summer days spent outdoors often mean increased sun exposure, which can lead to sun damage, pigmentation and premature ageing.
MARIA ÅKERBERG offers 100% natural, mineral-based sun protection — providing reliable defence exactly when you need it, while being kind to both skin and the environment. Free from chemical filters, synthetic additives and microplastics, our sun care range is suitable for the whole family — including sensitive skin and children.
Physical vs Chemical Sun filters — What’s the difference?
Physical Filters
Mineral sun protection is based on natural minerals like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These sit on the skin’s surface, forming a protective barrier that reflects UVA and UVB rays. Because mineral filters don’t penetrate the skin, they are gentle, non-irritating and safe even for young children. They are also reef-friendly, non-hormone disrupting and biodegradable.
Chemical filters
Chemical filters function by absorbing UV rays into the skin and converting them into heat. These filters oxidise within the skin and can accumulate in the body over time. They are suspected of having harmful effects on both human health and marine life. In addition, chemical filters break down more quickly in sunlight, meaning they often require more frequent reapplication.
Comparison Table
Mineral Sun Protection | Chemical Sun Protection |
Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide | Contains synthetic UV filters such as Oxybenzone, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Octocrylene, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine |
Reflects UV rays away from the skin | Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat |
Works on the skin’s surface | Penetrates the skin and works from within |
Immediate protection | Requires approx. 20 minutes to become effective |
Less likely to irritate sensitive skin | May cause irritation on sensitive skin |
Eco-friendly and reef-safe | May harm marine life and coral reefs |
Our mineral sun protection – reliable defence when the sun is at its strongest
For over 30 years, MARIA ÅKERBERG has developed skincare that cares for both people and the planet. Choosing ingredients that are kind to your skin, nature and marine life is at the heart of everything we do — and our sun care products are no exception. Our mineral-based sunscreens are 100% natural and combine effective UV protection with nourishing antioxidants and oils. Suitable for both face and body, gentle enough for sensitive skin and safe for children. They can be used alone or applied over your favourite MARIA ÅKERBERG face cream.
Sun Lotion SPF 30
A water-resistant, antioxidant-rich sunscreen sunscreen based on non-nano Zinc Oxide, providing high protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The lightweight formula applies easily without leaving a white cast. Cold-pressed Jojoba Oil, Flaxseed Oil and cooling Aloe Vera help to moisturise and soothe the skin.
Sun Stick SPF 50+
A mineral-based sun stick offering extra high UV protection — perfect for sensitive areas such as lips, nose and cheeks. Contains non-nano Zinc Oxide and has a water-resistant formula that stays put, even when swimming or exercising. Compact and convenient to carry with you for easy touch-ups throughout the day.
Sun Protecting Oil SPF 15
A silky smooth sun oil with Titanium Dioxide that provides medium protection for both face and body against UVA and UVB rays. It protects the skin from both sun exposure and dryness and is easy to apply without feeling sticky.
Enriched with ingredients to enhance performance
Carotene – for a beautiful, sun-kissed glow
Our sun care products are enriched with Carotene, a powerful antioxidant that converts into Vitamin A in the skin. It helps to strengthen the skin’s natural protective barrier, counteract free radicals and promote an even, longer-lasting tan.
Pongamia Oil – Boosting UV Protection
Both Sun Lotion SPF 30 and Sun Stick SPF 50+ contain Pongamia Oil, also known as Karanja Oil. Extracted from the seeds of Pongamia Pinnata, a fast-growing and sustainable tree native to tropical and subtropical regions, this oil has natural UV-protective properties that enhance the effectiveness of the mineral filters in our sun care.
In addition to functioning as a natural UV filter, Pongamia Oil is rich in antioxidants. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and strengthens the skin barrier.
Year-Round Sun Protection
The sun doesn’t just shine in summer. Its rays can be equally intense during other times of the year. Our mineral sun care products are just as useful for skiing and mountain hikes as they are for beach days or boat trips. Sun Stick SPF 50+ and Sun Protecting Oil SPF 15 are perfect to keep on hand whenever and wherever you need extra protection.
Why choose sun protection from MARIA ÅKERBERG?
• 100% natural and organic ingredients
• Mineral-based filters with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide
• Gentle on the skin – safe for the whole family
• Protects without harming coral reefs or marine ecosystems
• Enriched with nourishing oils and antioxidants
• Made in Sweden, using carefully selected, certified raw materials that meet our high standards for quality and sustainability
Discover our natural sun protection here