AFYREN and ESSE Skincare begin partnership to offer 100% natural cosmetic solutions with enhanced skincare performance.

First application of bio-based propionic acid brings new potential for skin health and sustainable cosmetic solutions
Propionic acid has benefits for microbiome preservation and skin balance
Bio-based propionic acid is produced via natural fermentation at the AFYREN NEOXY plant in France

Clermont-Ferrand/Lyon, December 9, 2025, 07:45 am CET – AFYREN (Euronext: ALAFY), a greentech company offering manufacturers biobased, low-carbon ingredients through a unique fermentation technology based on a completely circular model, and South Africa-based Esse Skincare, a leader in microbiome skincare science, are partnering to introduce the world’s first bio-based propionic acid for the skincare industry.
Propionic acid is a naturally occurring short chain fatty acid essential for maintaining a balanced skin microbiome. Emerging research suggests it helps modulate inflammation, support barrier resilience, and maintain microbial balance – key to hydrated, resilient skin.
Until now, propionic acid has only been available at industrial scale from petrochemical sources. Through this partnership, Esse gains access to AFYREN’s sustainably produced, COSMOS-certified, bio-based alternative propionic acid made at AFYREN NEOXY, the company’s flagship industrial biorefinery. Using AFYREN’s proprietary circular, low-carbon fermentation process, the plant is the first in the world capable of producing a portfolio of organic acids at commercial scale.

Nicolas Sordet, CEO of AFYREN, said: ”This shows how biotechnology can unlock new opportunities for both performance and sustainability in cosmetics that bring real benefits to humans and the environment. We look forward to seeing the first products reach consumers.”

Together, Esse and Afyren are shaping a new generation of skincare products – one that merges biotechnology, sustainability, and proven skin science.

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