Skin Stories

Photo by: @simoneschoemanprinsloo If you’re a parent of a teenager, you already know: their skin can flip from calm to chaotic overnight. Hormones fluctuate, oil production swings wildly, and breakouts seem to show up right before an exam, a photo day, or a weekend away. On top of that, teens are bombarded by TikTok trends, influencer routines, and “miracle hacks” that usually do more harm than good. Most parents end up asking the same thing: What does my child actually need

Photo by: @simoneschoemanprinsloo Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. Exfoliating face washes, like our Exfoliating Cleanser, simplify your routine by combining two essential steps in one: cleansing and exfoliation. With one product, you can clear away dirt and oil while gently removing dead skin cells that make your skin look dull or congested. At Upenya, we believe skincare should be gentle, effective, and science-based, especially for teen and acne-prone skin. Here’s

Photo by: @simoneschoemanprinsloo Teen skincare decoded: From Google to Reddit, these are the real questions teens are asking and the science-backed answers that actually help. 1. Do I really need a skincare routine as a teen? Yes, but keep it simple. A gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturiser, and daily sunscreen are all you need to start. Forget the 10-step routines; healthy skin comes from consistency, not clutter. 2. Why do I get pimples even though I wash my face? Horm

At Upenya, we balance Africa’s botanicals with proven science. “Natural,” “natural origin,” and “nature identical” each play a role in safe, effective skincare.

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.

Photo by: @simoneschoemanprinsloo When your skin flares before it calms Starting a new skincare routine can sometimes make skin appear...

Best skincare for melanin-rich skin and pigmentation. Discover how Upenya’s niacinamide, lactic acid, salicylic acid, honeybush, turmeric, and marula oil help reduce hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and uneven tone safely.

Learn how blackheads, whiteheads, comedones and acne form, why breakouts happen, and how to care for acne-prone skin with science-backed tips

Celebrate Heritage Month with Upenya. Discover the story of Marula Oil - the darling of the beauty industry - sustainably sourced and ABS compliant, rooted in South Africa’s biodiversity.

Our honeybush leaf extract in Upenya's Moisturising Gel is sourced from ABS-compliant soures. Read more about the benefits of this ethical scheme.

Diving into the science of causes of acne.

We explore the power of 3 important African Botanicals, Marula, Aloe ferox and Honeybush in skincare, focussing on their intrinsic benefits.

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.

Teen skin comes with big emotion, acne & pimples. Niacinamide is the trusted partner in your skincare routine, soothing redness, balancing oil, and gently fading blemish marks. It strengthens your skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and calms breakouts, leaving your complexion clear, calm, and (mostly) drama-free.

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

Photo by @simoneschoemanprinsloo Microbiome what? The skin is home to a variety of helpful microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and...

Photo by @simoneschoemanprinsloo Hi! Welcome to our very first Upenya blog - a space created for South African teens and parents to...