A new acne treatment developed using propolis harvested in Rwanda has been unveiled by the French Apidology Observatory (OFA), with the support of Prince Albert II and his foundation…
The cream, expected to become available in pharmacies in early 2027, represents the culmination of extensive research into propolis, a natural substance produced by bees from tree resins to protect their hives against bacteria and fungi.
Researchers Florent Rouvier and Jean-Michel Brunel, working with France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), examined thousands of propolis samples from around the world before identifying one with promising activity against acne-causing bacteria.
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Developed in partnership with pharmaceutical company Flavine, the treatment aims to offer a naturally derived alternative for people affected by acne, particularly teenagers.
Prince Albert II, who has supported the OFA since its establishment in 2013, highlighted the project’s wider benefits, including training beekeepers in Rwanda, supporting local communities and creating economic opportunities for vulnerable populations.
The initiative also demonstrates the potential of biodiversity to inspire medical innovation, with further propolis research exploring applications in cancer treatment, agriculture and antibiotic resistance.
The cream’s clinical effectiveness and suitability for individual patients will require assessment as it becomes commercially available.
Image: Monaco Info
