A composition suitable for providing protection against ultraviolet radiation containing one or more active ultraviolet radiation absorber through which ultraviolet radiation in approximately the 295 to 315 nanometer range is permitted to enter the skin in an amount sufficient for the body to produce a healthful and disease-opposing quantity of vitamin D3 and chemical precursors thereof. The composition is particularly used in sunscreens promoting on the one hand vitamin D3 production, on the other hand protecting the skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation.