Microbiome-focused skincare brand Esse Skincare has introduced Barrier Rescue, a new intensive moisturiser formulated with bio-based propionic acid and ceramides to support the skin barrier and provide relief for extremely dry, sensitive and reactive skin. Developed in partnership with French biotechnology company AFYREN, the launch introduces what the companies describe as the world's first skincare product formulated with naturally derived propionic acid, marking a development in the use of fermentation-based ingredients within professional skincare.
Unlike conventional barrier creams that primarily rely on occlusive ingredients to minimise moisture loss, Barrier Rescue has been developed to support the biological processes involved in maintaining a healthy skin barrier, including the balance of the skin microbiome, lipid replenishment and inflammation regulation. At the centre of the formula is COSMOS-certified, bio-based propionic acid, a naturally occurring short-chain fatty acid associated with the skin's microbial ecosystem. Developed through AFYREN's fermentation technology, the ingredient offers an alternative to propionic acid traditionally produced using petrochemical feedstocks. The formulation also incorporates Ceramide NP, a skin-identical lipid that helps replenish the intercellular lipid matrix and support barrier integrity, alongside castor seed oil, rich in ricinoleic acid, to help soothe visible redness and discomfort. Prebiotic and postbiotic ingredients, including Lactobacillus-derived extracts, further support the brand's microbiome-focused approach to skin health.
The product has been developed for skin experiencing persistent dryness, sensitivity and barrier disruption, including age-related reductions in sebum production, environmental stress and sensitivity associated with intensive skincare routines.
In an independent four-week clinical study involving adults with dry and barrier-compromised skin, Barrier Rescue was found to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by 10.7% after 28 days. Unlike conventional assessments conducted immediately after product application, the measurements were taken at least eight hours after the final application to assess barrier performance between uses. A separate consumer assessment involving 33 participants with dry and sensitive skin found that 82% experienced reduced dryness within the first week, while 88% reported improved skin health after four weeks.
Barrier Rescue introduces a targeted homecare option for clients experiencing persistent dryness or reactive skin, while supporting the wider shift towards personalised, barrier-conscious treatment programmes. The formulation is 99% natural origin and 64% organic, with COSMOS Organic certification. It can be applied to dry or flaky areas of the face or body and reapplied as required.
Esse Barrier Rescue is available in an 80ml format, priced at £108 in the UK, through Esse Skincare and authorised professional stockists.
Microbiome-focused skincare brand Esse Skincare has introduced Barrier Rescue, a new intensive moisturiser formulated with bio-based propionic acid and ceramides to support the skin barrier and provide relief for extremely dry, sensitive and reactive skin. Developed in partnership with French biotechnology company AFYREN, the launch introduces what the companies describe as the world's first skincare product formulated with naturally derived propionic acid, marking a development in the use of fermentation-based ingredients within professional skincare.