Frequently asked questions

You can purchase Upenya Cosmetics, our science-led skincare range for acne-prone teen skin, at Equilibrium Boutique Wellness Spa at Fairview Hotel, Tzaneen. The team can guide you on the right routine for your skin. Equilibrium Boutique Wellness Spa (Fairview Hotel, Tzaneen) Old Gravelotte Road, Tzaneen, Limpopo Bookings: +27 83 446 2593 Email: spa@fairviewhotel.co.za() Visit their website: Fairview Hotels, Spa & Golf Resort(https://spa.fairviewtzaneen.co.za/)

Teen-friendly Upenya facials are available at Equilibrium Boutique Wellness Spa at Fairview Hotel, Tzaneen. Their trained therapists offer gentle, age-appropriate skincare support for breakouts and sensitive teen skin. Equilibrium Boutique Wellness Spa (Fairview Hotel, Tzaneen) Old Gravelotte Road, Tzaneen, Limpopo Bookings: +27 83 446 2593 Email: spa@fairviewhotel.co.za() Visit their website: Fairview Hotels, Spa & Golf Resort(https://spa.fairviewtzaneen.co.za/)

You can purchase Upenya Cosmetics, our science-led skincare range for acne-prone teen skin, at Simply Beauty Body & Skin Care in Langebaan. Santi can help you choose the right routine and products. Simply Beauty Body & Skin Care (Langebaan) 49 Troonweg, Langebaan, Western Cape Contact: Santi Blom Phone: 072 274 1461

Teen-friendly Upenya facials are available at Simply Beauty Body & Skin Care in Langebaan. Their trained therapist offers gentle, age-appropriate skincare support for breakouts and sensitive teen skin. Simply Beauty Body & Skin Care (Langebaan) 49 Troonweg, Langebaan, Western Cape Contact: Santi Blom Phone: 072 274 1461

You can purchase Upenya Cosmetics, our science-led skincare range for acne-prone teen skin, at Essence Body & Skin in the Rosebank/Sandton area. Shaazia can guide you on the best routine for your skin. Essence Body & Skin (Rosebank / Sandton) Contact: Shaazia Moosa Phone: 082 850 8768

Teen-friendly Upenya facials are available at Essence Body & Skin in the Rosebank/Sandton area. Their trained therapist offers gentle, age-appropriate skincare support for breakouts and sensitive teen skin. Essence Body & Skin (Rosebank / Sandton) Contact: Shaazia Moosa Phone: 082 850 8768

You can purchase Upenya Cosmetics, our science-led skincare range for acne-prone teen skin, at Elegant Beauty Lounge in Pretoria. Contact: Zané Botha Phone: 064 543 3573

Yes you can. Please refer to our Shipping & Returns section on this website, send us a message via our contact form (https://www.upenya.co.za/contact)or email Natasha on sales@upenya.co.za (sales@upenya.co.za)or phone 079 02 393 01.

You can purchase Upenya skincare products directly from our official website, as well as from selected online retailers including Takealot and Jislaaik Shop. We are continuously expanding our retail footprint. A current list of approved retailers and partners is available on our Partners & Stockists page, making it easy to find Upenya at a location that suits you.

No. Upenya products are not tested on animals at any stage of product development, and we do not commission third parties to conduct animal testing on our behalf. Our products comply with European Union Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, which prohibits animal testing for cosmetic products and cosmetic ingredients.

In South Africa, cosmetic product labelling is regulated by the Department of Health under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act 54 of 1972). While South Africa does not currently have detailed, stand-alone cosmetic labelling regulations equivalent to those in the European Union, local requirements are informed by international best practice. This includes alignment with the SADC Guidelines for Cosmetic Products and key principles of the EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, particularly in relation to ingredient disclosure, safety, and consumer information.

Yes. Upenya works with selected retail and professional partners who share our commitment to quality, science-led skincare and customer care. If you are interested in becoming a stockist, please email sales@upenya.co.za ()with your store location, target market, and relevant experience in skincare retail or professional use. Our team will review your enquiry and respond with further information.

Enter your discount code in the “Discount code” field at checkout and click Apply. The discount will be reflected in your order total before payment is completed.

Upenya formulations are developed with both ingredient performance and skin comfort in mind. Different active ingredients function optimally within specific pH ranges, and each product is adjusted to its ideal pH window to support efficacy while remaining gentle on the skin. Adolescent skin typically has a mildly acidic surface pH of around 5.5. Our formulations are aligned accordingly, helping to support the skin barrier and overall skin balance without unnecessary disruption. You can read more about pH, skin health, and formulation science in our blog. (https://www.upenya.co.za/post/ph-and-teen-skin-why-balance-matters)

You can reach the Upenya team Monday to Friday, from 8:00 to 16:00 (excluding public holidays). For sales and marketing enquiries, please email sales@upenya.co.za ()or WhatsApp 079 023 9301. For general enquiries, visit our Contact page or reach out to us directly via the details provided there.

An at home patch test can help identify whether your skin may react to a new product before full use. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of skin, such as the inside of your forearm. Leave it on and wait 24 hours without washing the area. If you notice redness, itching, stinging, or irritation, discontinue use. If irritation persists or you are unsure about a reaction, seek advice from a healthcare professional before continuing use.

The skin ecosystem, often called the skin microbiome, refers to the diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, that naturally live on the skin’s surface. These microorganisms play an important role in maintaining skin health by supporting the skin barrier, helping defend against harmful microbes, and interacting with the immune system. A balanced skin ecosystem contributes to skin that functions well and is less prone to disruption. When this balance is disturbed, the skin may become more reactive, uncomfortable, or prone to concerns such as breakouts or sensitivity. At Upenya, we recognise the importance of supporting the skin’s natural ecosystem. Our approach focuses on using gentle formulations that respect and support the skin barrier rather than unnecessarily disrupting it. You can read more about the skin microbiome and its role in skincare in our blog.(https://www.upenya.co.za/post/how-to-improve-the-skin-microbiome)

Reducing moisture loss starts with supporting the skin barrier. Using gentle cleansers and hydrating products that help reinforce the skin’s natural barrier can limit transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improve overall skin comfort. Lightweight formulations that combine humectants and barrier-supportive ingredients can help the skin retain moisture without feeling heavy or occlusive. You can learn more about TEWL and how it affects skin hydration in our blog. (https://www.upenya.co.za/post/transepidermal-water-loss-matters-for-skin-barrier-health)

Yes. Upenya products are formulated with over 99% natural, naturally derived, and nature identical ingredients. Our formulations are designed to be gentle and microbiome aware. We intentionally avoid the use of certain ingredient groups commonly excluded from considered skincare formulations, including sulphates, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde donors, silicones, microbeads, PEGs, BPAs, petroleum derived ingredients, and oxybenzone. This approach allows us to balance ingredient origin with scientific performance, safety, and long term skin compatibility.

Yes. Upenya is specifically formulated with teenage skin in mind. During adolescence, the skin undergoes hormonal changes that can affect oil production, barrier function, and sensitivity. Our formulations are designed to support these changes by being gentle, well-tolerated, and effective without overloading the skin. Upenya products are dermatologically tested and classified as non-irritating, and they are developed using simple, science-led formulations that respect the skin barrier and microbiome. This makes them suitable for daily use on teenage, blemish-prone skin when used as directed.

Upenya products are formulated for teenage skin, and many teens can begin using them from around 12 years and older. Our Blemish Care contains active levels of salicylic acid and is therefore not recommended for children under the age of 11. Because adolescent skin can be more sensitive and variable, it is advisable for younger teens to start with one product at a time and to perform a patch test before regular use. If a teen is under the care of a dermatologist or using prescription treatments, it is sensible to check with a healthcare professional to ensure the products fit safely into their routine.

Yes. Upenya is developed specifically for acne-prone skin, with formulations that balance active performance and skin tolerance. Our products are dermatologically tested and classified as non-irritating, and they are designed to support daily skincare without over-stripping or unnecessarily disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. Because acne-prone skin can be variable and sensitive, we recommend introducing new products one at a time and conducting a patch test before regular use. If you are using prescription acne treatments or have specific skin concerns, consulting a healthcare professional can help ensure your routine is suitable for your skin’s needs.

Yes. Upenya products are designed for daily use as part of a simple skincare routine for teenage, acne-prone skin. Our formulations are gentle, dermatologically tested, and developed to support the skin barrier without over-drying or overloading the skin. As with any skincare routine, it is best to introduce products gradually and observe how the skin responds. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency of use or discontinue use. For teens using prescription treatments or managing more severe skin concerns, it is advisable to check with a healthcare professional before combining products.

Upenya products are formulated to be gentle and supportive of the skin barrier, which means they may be suitable for use alongside prescription acne treatments. However, prescription products can vary in strength and effect on the skin. If a teen is using prescription acne medication, it is advisable to introduce any new skincare products gradually and to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional before combining routines. This helps ensure compatibility and reduces the risk of irritation.

Upenya products are formulated with acne-prone skin in mind. They include ingredients known to support clearer skin and improve skin tolerance, such as salicylic acid in appropriate concentrations and hydrating, barrier-supportive components. While individual results vary, many users find that consistent use of products suited to their skin type can help reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts over time by supporting a balanced skin environment. Because every skin is unique, it’s best to introduce new products gradually, and performing a patch test before regular use is recommended. For teens using prescription acne medications or with more persistent breakouts, consulting a dermatologist can help tailor a routine that works best for them.

Some Upenya products contain carefully selected exfoliating ingredients designed for acne-prone teenage skin. Our Exfoliating Cleanser contains malic and lactic acids, while our Blemish Care includes salicylic acid. Where exfoliating acids are used, they are formulated at appropriate levels and balanced with hydrating and barrier-supportive ingredients to support skin comfort. Not all Upenya products contain exfoliating acids, and each product is designed to play a specific role within a simple skincare routine. As with all exfoliating products, we recommend introducing them gradually and performing a patch test before regular use.

Upenya products are formulated to be gentle and well tolerated, which means they may be suitable for use on skin experiencing active breakouts. Our approach focuses on supporting the skin barrier and maintaining overall skin comfort rather than aggressively stripping or over treating the skin. When breakouts are inflamed, it is especially important to avoid over exfoliation and to use products as directed. Introducing products gradually and reducing frequency if the skin feels uncomfortable can help minimise irritation. If breakouts are severe, painful, or worsening, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate care.

Teenage skin is still developing and can be more reactive due to hormonal changes, increased oil production, and an evolving skin barrier. Using overly harsh or aggressive products can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, or increased sensitivity, which may worsen the appearance of breakouts over time. Gentle skincare helps support the skin’s natural barrier and maintain balance, allowing the skin to function properly while managing excess oil and congestion. Simple routines with well-tolerated formulations are often more effective for acne-prone teen skin than frequent exfoliation or strong actives used too often. This approach supports healthier-looking skin while reducing the risk of unnecessary irritation.

Upenya products are formulated with gentle, well-tolerated ingredients and are dermatologically tested. In testing, they were classified as non-irritating, meaning they are designed to support acne-prone teenage skin without unnecessary disruption. Because every individual’s skin is unique, we recommend introducing new products gradually and patch testing before regular use. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or discontinue use.

Upenya products are not fragrance free. Some of our formulations contain naturally derived aromatic ingredients, including essential oils and botanical extracts that contribute a light scent. These ingredients are included at carefully controlled levels and selected with skin tolerance in mind. We do not use synthetic fragrance blends. Where fragrance allergens such as limonene or linalool occur, they are naturally present components of essential oils and are declared transparently on our ingredient lists, in line with cosmetic labelling requirements. If a teen has known fragrance sensitivities or highly reactive skin, we recommend reviewing individual ingredient lists carefully and performing a patch test before regular use.

Upenya products are formulated with gentle, well-tolerated ingredients and are dermatologically tested. Many users with sensitive skin find our formulations comfortable to use because they are balanced to support the skin barrier and avoid unnecessary disruption. However, some products include botanicals and essential oils that may have a mild natural scent. While these are selected to minimise irritation, individuals with highly reactive skin may prefer to introduce products gradually and perform a patch test before regular use to gauge personal tolerance. If irritation occurs or sensitivity is significant, reduce frequency of use or discontinue and consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.

A simple routine helps teenage skin stay balanced and comfortable. Use Upenya products in the following order: 1. Cleanse – Start with the Exfoliating Cleanser to gently remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities. 2. Treat – Apply Blemish Care to areas prone to breakouts, using a thin layer as directed. 3. Moisturise – Finish with the Moisturising Gel for the face, or the Body Cream for body areas, to support hydration and the skin barrier. This routine can be used once or twice daily, depending on skin tolerance. As with any new routine, introduce products gradually and adjust frequency if the skin feels uncomfortable.

Skin responds gradually to any new routine. Many people notice improvements in skin comfort, hydration, or overall balance within the first 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use. Improvements in the appearance of breakouts may take longer, often 4 to 8 weeks, as the skin goes through natural renewal cycles. Results vary depending on skin type, consistency of use, and other factors such as hormones and lifestyle. For best results, use products as directed, introduce them gradually, and allow time for the skin to adjust.

Yes. Upenya products are designed to be used morning and evening as part of a simple daily skincare routine. If you are new to the products or have sensitive skin, it may be helpful to start with once daily use and gradually increase to twice daily as your skin adjusts. Always follow with sunscreen during the day when using exfoliating or active products.

Yes. Upenya products can be used alongside sunscreen as part of a daytime skincare routine. Apply Upenya products first, allow them to absorb fully, and then apply sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine. Using sunscreen during the day is especially important when using products that contain exfoliating or active ingredients, as these can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for teenage or acne-prone skin and reapply as directed. Examples of lightweight, high-protection sunscreens commonly used for sensitive or acne-prone skin include Eucerin Sensitive Protect SPF 50, Cetaphil Sun SPF 50+, and Heliocare 360°.

Upenya products are developed and formulated in South Africa. Our brand draws on local botanical ingredients such as marula oil, honeybush extract, and aloe ferox, combined with globally recognised formulation standards.

Yes. Upenya products are proudly made in South Africa using a mix of locally sourced botanicals and internationally validated skincare science.

Yes. Upenya products are formulated and labelled in accordance with South African cosmetic regulatory requirements under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act. We align our practices with international standards to support safety, transparency, and consumer confidence.

Yes. In addition to our retail range, Upenya offers selected products and protocols developed for professional and salon use. Our professional offering is designed to support gentle, results-focused treatments suitable for teenage and sensitive skin. Availability may vary, and professional products are offered through approved partners. If you are a salon or skincare professional interested in working with Upenya, please contact us for further information.

Yes. Selected Upenya products and protocols are suitable for use in professional facials and skincare treatments, particularly those focused on teenage or sensitive skin. Our approach prioritises gentle, well-tolerated formulations that support the skin barrier, making them appropriate for treatment settings when used as directed. Professional use is offered through approved partners and trained practitioners. If you are a skincare professional interested in incorporating Upenya into treatments, please contact us for further information.