If there’s one demographic particularly vigilant about the personal care products they’re using on their skin, it’s expectant mothers.

Newport Beach, CA-based mothers-turned-business-partners Arielle Moody and Tahlia Disisto launched Mama Sol, a suncare brand, in 2023. The brand’s target customer: expectant mothers. 

“Sol” is the Spanish word for “sun” and “mama” symbolizes Mother Earth, a reflection of the brand’s commitment to “clean ingredients,” environmentally conscious packaging and products that are gentle for people and planet, the company said.

“During pregnancy, skin can become more sensitive and absorb ingredients differently, which is why Mama Sol was created with safety and simplicity at the forefront,” Moody told Happi. “The formulas are mineral based, made without harsh chemicals and thoughtfully designed to provide effective sun protection while being gentle enough for expecting mothers. Mama Sol focuses on clean, pregnancy-conscious ingredients that protect both mom and baby while still feeling luxurious and easy to use.”

Moody, the brand’s head of product development, has previous experience in the same capacity at Skinn Cosmetics. While she was pregnant in the 2010s with her first child, she recalled being “appalled” at ingredients she’d find while scrutinizing labels. Moody wished to create suncare products that didn’t feel greasy or leave an unsightly white cast. 

“The products are designed to help everyone feel confident, glowing and cared for while staying safe in the sun,” Moody added. 

Her mother, Dr. Sheri Rowen, an ophthalmologist and cosmetic laser surgeon, serves as the brand’s strategic advisor. She trained at The Johns Hopkins and University of Maryland and is recognized internationally as a key opinion leader in Ophthalmology. Rowen believes she passed down her passion for ingredient safety to her daughter. 

Under the Umbrella

Mama Sol has two products on the market right now, Lipbrella and Facebrella. They are suncare-cosmetic hybrids that carry SPF 20 and 30+ protection, respectively, in addition to beauty benefits like hydration, a smooth texture and a natural-looking finish. 

“A subtle hint of lavender essential oils add a soothing sensory moment, encouraging a deep breath and a mindful pause while applying sun protection,” explained Moody. “We like to say, if sunscreen and a spa day had a baby, you get Mama Sol.”

Aligned with Moody’s wishes, Mama Sol’s sunscreens are designed to feel smooth, breathable and non-greasy.  The mineral base of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide physically blocks UV rays, which makes them a preferred choice for sensitive skin and expectant and nursing mothers, Moody said.  

More on the Way

Mama Sol’s Bodybrella 100% Mineral Hydrating Milk SPF 40 is currently sold out. But Mama Sol officials said they will bump up the line with two additional SKUs with beauty and sun benefits.