A Simple Step-by-Step ADHD Skincare Routine For Dry Skin

Dry skin can be a hassle on its own but throw ADHD into the mix, and it might feel like you’re juggling skincare with a dozen distractions. Luckily, there’s a wealth of short and concise information out there to get you on the right path.

Let’s start off with what we like to call the three non-negotiables for every skincare routine for dry skin. These are:

A facial wash
A moisturizer
Sunscreen

Table of Contents

Picking a Good ADHD Facial Wash for Dry Skin

A facial wash is a skincare product that strips harmful dirt and oils from your face. Before any product is applied to your skin, you need to wash up to avoid sealing dirt into your skin. Putting any other products on dirty skin can cause a ton of skincare issues. A good facial wash for ADHD and dry skin must tick the following boxes:

Must take away the dirt without stripping away your skin’s natural oils.
Unscented to avoid skin reactions and sensitivity issues.
Should look nice and appeal to you to give your brain some sort of dopamine.
Must be in specifically for dry skin in gel, cream, oil, or bar form.

Hack: If you’ve ever experienced skin tightness after washing your face, it’s your skin telling you that you’ve overdone it.

Looking for the best cleansers for dry skin that fit the bill?

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends Cetaphil Skin Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, and Aquanil Cleanser for dry skin.

Good Hypoallergenic Ingredients to Look Out for in an ADHD Facial Wash for Dry Skin

Hypoallergenic ingredients are less likely to cause an allergic reaction and are a lifesaver if you have ADHD. Studies have shown that people with ADHD are more likely to develop allergic reactions and sensitivities.

To avoid this, go for:

Glycerin: Hydrates the skin and prevents dryness.
Hyaluronic Acid: Holds moisture, keeping your skin hydrated.
Ceramides: Restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
Aloe Vera: Soothes and moisturizes the skin.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to a more manageable and effective skincare routine, even with ADHD.

Picking a Good ADHD Moisturizer for Dry Skin

A moisturizer is a skincare product that hydrates and protects your skin by locking in moisture and forming a barrier against external elements. Dry skin especially needs moisturizers because it lacks the natural oils that keep skin hydrated and supple.

Looking for a good moisturizer that suits your dry skin and ADHD? You need a product that is:

Lightweight and easily absorbed into your skin. Lotion and milky consistency moisturizers are the right way to go.
Unscented to avoid skin reactions and sensitivity issues.
Visually appealing to give your brain some sort of dopamine boost.

Good Hypoallergenic Ingredients to Look Out for in an ADHD Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Glycerin: Attracts moisture to the skin and keeps it hydrated.
Hyaluronic Acid: Holds and retains moisture, giving your skin a plump and hydrated feel.
Ceramides: Help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, protecting against moisture loss.
Shea Butter: Nourishes and moisturizes the skin deeply, providing long-lasting hydration.
Squalane: Mimics the skin’s natural oils, offering lightweight hydration and soothing properties.

Looking for the best moisturizers for dry skin that fit the bill?

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends Cetaphil, Moisturel, CeraVe or Eucerin Cream.

Picking a Good ADHD Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Skipping out on sunscreen can be extremely dangerous. Not only are there physical effects like wrinkling, sunburns, and dark spots, but several studies have shown that skipping out on UV protection can cause cancer (via a 2018 study in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).

So, what is sunscreen (aka UV protection)? Let’s take it step-by-step:

Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Sunscreen should be reapplied every one to two hours. To fully understand sunscreen, let’s chat about SPF.

Imagine sunscreen as a magic shield that protects your skin from the sun. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is like a number that tells us how strong this magic shield is.

In essence:

SPF 30 is like a strong shield.
SPF 50 is an even stronger shield and is perfect if you live in a sunny climate or burn easily.

How to Spot a Good Sunscreen for ADHD

When choosing a sunscreen, especially if you have ADHD, you want a product that meets these criteria:

Broad-Spectrum Protection: It should protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF 30 or Higher: Provides adequate protection for most skin types and environments.
Lightweight and Non-Greasy: Feels comfortable on your skin and doesn’t leave a heavy residue.
Water-resistant: This will keep it on for longer.
Unscented or Mildly Scented: To avoid sensory overload and potential skin reactions.
Visually Appealing Packaging: Helps give your brain a little dopamine boost.

Good Ingredients to Look for in Sunscreen

Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: Provide physical UV protection and are less likely to cause irritation.
Antioxidants: Help to protect your skin from free radical damage.
Hyaluronic Acid: Keeps your skin hydrated while protecting it from the sun.

Need A Video Guide?

Here is a tutorial from the American Academy of Dermatology Association showing how to apply sunscreen. Check it out.

Don’t Forget:

You need to pick a product that you can always access. Constantly changing your products can damage your skin.
You need to patch-test the product on a small part of your arm and wait a day to see how your skin reacts
Don’t leave your neck out.