About Upenya Cosmetics
Who are we
Upenya Cosmetics is a South African skincare brand offering science-led skincare for acne-prone teens and young adults.
Based in Tzaneen, Limpopo, we combine evidence-based formulation, carefully selected botanical ingredients and rigorous product testing to create practical skincare for young skin.
Our founder: Dr Mathilda Mostert
Dr Mathilda Mostert, founder of Upenya Cosmetics and Precision Oil Laboratories, grew up on a farm in South Africa’s Limpopo province.
Fluent in Tshivenda and inspired by the region’s botanical heritage, she completed an M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Food Science at Stellenbosch University and the University of Pretoria, specialising in seed oil chemistry. She later conducted postdoctoral research at the CSIR.
The idea for Upenya began at home when Mathilda searched for a gentle but effective skincare range for her three teenage sons. Drawing on decades of expertise in oil science and cosmetic formulation, she developed Upenya using evidence-based research to care for acne-prone teen skin.
With more than 23 years of industry experience, Mathilda heads a SANAS-accredited laboratory and serves on Codex and SABS technical committees.
Her approach is summed up in one principle:
“If you can’t measure it, don’t mention it.”
Why Upenya
Upenya was created to offer young people skincare that is simple, credible and grounded in science.
Our name means “to shine” in Tshivenda. It reflects our belief that skincare should support healthy-looking skin, confidence and consistency rather than promote unrealistic ideas of perfection.
Rooted in Limpopo, Upenya combines carefully selected local botanical ingredients, including marula oil, with specialist formulation expertise and rigorous product testing.
We believe in science, not skincare hype. Our products are developed to support the skin barrier, respect the skin microbiome and gently care for acne-prone teen and young adult skin.
Upenya products are made with more than 99% natural, naturally derived and nature-identical ingredients. Our aim is to help young people build a practical skincare routine they can use with confidence.
What sets us apart
Our approach is guided by skin biology, evidence and real-world use. We focus on supporting long-term skin health rather than chasing quick fixes or skincare trends.
1. Formulated for acne-prone skin
Many products aimed at breakouts can leave skin feeling dry, tight or irritated.
Upenya formulas are developed to care for acne-prone skin while supporting the skin barrier and helping improve the appearance of blemishes over time.
2. Supports the skin microbiome
Healthy skin depends on balance.
Selected Upenya products contain prebiotic ingredients that help support the skin’s natural microbiota and maintain a comfortable skin environment.
3. Scientifically tested
Our products are evaluated on real people using professional laboratory methods.
Depending on the product, we assess measures such as hydration, transepidermal water loss, skin tolerance and changes in the appearance of blemishes over time.
4. Developed for a wide range of skin tones and types
Upenya formulas are developed for use across a wide range of skin tones and skin types, from melanin-rich to fair skin.
Healthy skin function matters for everyone.
Explore our teen-focused skincare routine, developed to support calm, balanced and comfortable skin.