Greentech company AFYREN (Euronext Paris:ALAFY) said on Thursday that it its 100% bio-based, COSMOS-certified propionic acid has enabled the global launch of Esse Barrier Rescue, developed with South Africa-based microbiome skincare company Esse Skincare.

The product is described as the world's first skincare product formulated with natural propionic acid and combines the ingredient with ceramides to target extremely dry and reactive skin while supporting the skin's natural ecosystem.

Propionic acid is a naturally occurring short-chain fatty acid associated with maintaining skin microbiome balance, with emerging research indicating potential roles in inflammation modulation, barrier resilience and microbial balance.

AFYREN produces its propionic acid through natural fermentation at its AFYREN NEOXY industrial biorefinery, using a circular, low-carbon process.

The partnership provides Esse with a bio-based alternative to propionic acid traditionally produced at industrial scale from petrochemical sources.

AFYREN said the collaboration demonstrates the potential of its ingredients to support new cosmetic applications and expand the use of bio-based materials in skincare.