OUR SKIN STORIES

We’ve had so many queries from parents about whether face scrubs help teen breakouts. The truth is, scrubbing acne-prone skin usually makes things worse by irritating the barrier, spreading inflammation, and disrupting the skin microbiome. Here’s why gentle care works better, and what to do instead.

Understanding teen skincare Teen skincare has become unnecessarily complicated Today’s teens are exposed to more skincare content than any previous generation. Social media platforms promote multi-step routines, strong active ingredients, and expensive “miracle products” that promise instant results. While these trends may appear harmless, emerging dermatology research suggests that complex, influencer-led teen skincare routines are often unnecessary and can increase the risk

simple routine, made for real teen skin. The Upenya 3-step system combines gentle cleansing, lightweight hydration, and targeted blemish care to support calm, balanced skin without overcomplicating skincare for teens.

Teen skincare decoded: the real questions and science-backed answers From Google to Reddit, parents and teens are asking the same questions about their teens' skin. What actually works? What is just hype? What is safe to use at this age? This guide breaks down the most common teen skincare questions and provides clear, evidence-based answers. Do I really need a skincare routine as a teen Yes, but it should stay simple. Skincare for teens works best when it focuses on consiste

Exercise can stress your skin, especially in South Africa’s sunny climate. Cleanse gently, rehydrate with nourishing ingredients like marula oil and niacinamide, use targeted treatments for blemishes, and always protect with SPF 50+. This routine supports healthy skin after every workout.

Learn how blackheads, whiteheads, comedones and acne form, why breakouts happen, and how to handle teen acne with science-backed tips

Diving into the science of the causes of acne.

Can teens use AHA and BHA together? Yes—when formulated gently, like in Upenya’s skincare. AHAs such as lactic and malic acid lift away dull surface cells for smoother skin, while BHA (salicylic acid) works inside pores to reduce blackheads and congestion. Together, they help keep teen skin clear, even, and fresh—without harsh scrubbing.

Your skin’s happiest when slightly acidic (around pH 5). When pH is disrupted, dryness, redness, and acne can flare up. Upenya products—like our Upenya Moisturising Gel and Exfoliating Cleanser—are scientifically formulated to support your skin’s natural acid mantle, promoting a balanced microbiome, barrier integrity, and clear, healthy skin.

Teenage skin is unique and needs special care. Upenya’s Youth Range is formulated to: - Support the skin barrier with pH-balanced, non-irritating ingredients. - Gently exfoliate without over-drying. -Rebalance the microbiome with Inulin and prebiotic Aloe ferox. -Calm inflammation with ingredients like Allantoin and Honeybush extract. -Manage blemishes and pigmentation with niacinamide. Upenya avoid synthetic fragrance, harsh alcohols, and common irritants found in teen skin

Acne isn’t just a skin issue; it’s a confidence challenge for up to 80% of teens and many adults. Those red bumps can trigger stress, social withdrawal, and self-doubt, creating a cycle where anxiety worsens breakouts. This guide pairs science-backed tips—from realistic treatment timelines and mindful stress relief to supportive conversations and positive social media use—to help families tackle acne and build lasting self-esteem together.

A blog about why Trans epidermal Water Loss is an indicator for stressed skin and how to improve skin barrier health

Have you ever heard the word microbiome and wondered, microbiome what? Your skin is not just skin. It is home to a whole world of tiny organisms, including helpful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Together, they form the skin microbiome . These microorganisms are not harmful. In fact, many of them play an important role in keeping your skin healthy. They help support your skin barrier, protect against unwanted germs, and guide your immune system in recognising what belongs on th

Upenya is here to guide South African teens and parents through the basics of healthy, confident skincare. Our science-led Youth Range is designed for acne-prone and sensitive teen skin, using gentle exfoliants, barrier-supporting hydration, and microbiome-friendly ingredients like marula oil and prebiotic aloe. Simple steps, thoughtful care, real teen confidence.