The present invention relates to particulate UV protection agents which are obtainable by hydrothermal treatment of a particulate metal oxide and subsequent application of a manganese oxide coating, and to the preparation and use thereof. The present invention furthermore relates to novel compositions, in particular for topical application, which are intended, in particular, for light protection of the skin and/or hair against UV radiation and free-radical-induced stress, and to the use thereof in the above-mentioned cosmetic application.