Esse Skincare Has Launched Bio-Based Barrier Rescue
The new product utilizes COSMOS-certified propionic acid produced via fermentation.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Beauty
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Esse Skincare has released its new product, Esse Barrier Rescue, which features 100% bio-based propionic acid. This ingredient is sourced from AFYREN and produced at its NEOXY plant in France.
Why it matters
The partnership reduces reliance on petrochemical sources of propionic acid while offering a solution that maintains a balanced skin microbiome. This collaboration aims to provide sustainable skincare options globally.
The new product features 100% bio-based propionic acid that is COSMOS-certified. AFYREN, which produces the ingredient via natural fermentation, maintains an R&D investment of 20% of its annual budget.
The players
Esse Skincare
This South African company specializes in skincare products designed to support the skin microbiome.
AFYREN
Based in France, this green chemistry company focuses on the production of bio-based ingredients through fermentation.
The details
Produced at the AFYREN NEOXY plant, the ingredient is created by valorizing local biomass from non-food agricultural co-products. Esse Skincare has made the product available for both professional and consumer use across global markets.
Timeline
AFYREN was founded in 2012.
The company listed on Euronext Growth Paris in 2021.
AFYREN employed 140 people at the end of 2025.
The product launch was announced on October 8, 2026.
Culture Shift
This launch follows a pattern set by the COSMOS-standard certification for natural and organic cosmetics to ensure environmental compliance. The move reflects a broader industry shift toward green chemistry as brands seek to replace petrochemical inputs with sustainable alternatives.
Consumers can access the product globally for both professional and home skin care routines. The use of bio-based ingredients allows users to prioritize products that support skin health without relying on traditional petrochemical manufacturing.
The takeaway
The integration of fermentation-based ingredients into mainstream skincare highlights the growing commercial viability of green chemistry. Consumers should check product labels for COSMOS-certified ingredients to ensure their skincare choices align with sustainable manufacturing practices.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in the industry in our Beauty section.
More information
For additional details, visit the AFYREN company information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Renewable Carbon News.
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Would you prefer using skincare products formulated with bio-based rather than petrochemical-derived ingredients?
