A colored sunscreen emulsion which enables the user to more effectively protect against skin damage, by facilitating more complete and uniform coverage of the sunscreen on the skin, comprises: a) at least one particulate ultramarine pigment that imparts a color other than white to the sunscreen emulsion, in amounts such that when the sunscreen emulsion is rubbed into the skin, the color substantially disappears; b) at least one sunscreen active agent in an amount effective to protect skin against the actinic radiation of the sun; c) at least one emulsifier; d) sufficient water to form the colored emulsion; and e) optionally, one or more ingredients from one or more of the following classes: emollients, humectants, dry-feel agents, waterproofing agents, insect repellents, preservatives, antioxidants, chelating agents and fragrances.