A Simple ADHD-Friendly Skincare Routine For Dry Skin

Dry skin is already a hassle, but when you throw ADHD into the mix, it can feel like juggling skincare with a dozen distractions. Luckily, you don’t need a complicated routine to see results. A quick, no-fuss skincare routine for dry skin can make your skin feel better without stressing your brain, even with attention difficulties.

We’ll break down the non-negotiables for a basic and effective routine, and if you want to go all in, we’ve got extra steps to build a longer, results-driven regimen.

Because this guide is lengthy, here is a quick Table of Contents to help you find what you need easily. (You’re welcome!) Don’t have dry skin or not sure? Take our skin type quiz.

A Basic Skincare Routine for Dry Skin That Works

Want to stick to the basics so you don’t feel overwhelmed? Here’s the blueprint.

Morning Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

1. Cleanser: Gentle, hydrating, non-stripping (gel, cream, or oil-based). Here is our guide to learning how to cleanse the right way.
2. Moisturizer: Hydration plus moisture lock (glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides).
3. Sunscreen: SPF 30+, broad-spectrum, lightweight, reapply every 1-2 hours.

Nighttime Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

1. Cleanser: Wash off dirt, oil, and sunscreen (same as morning).
2. Moisturizer: Locks in hydration, prevents dryness overnight.

Longer Routine for an Extra Boost

If you want to take your skin past the bare basics, you’ll need more than a bare-bones skincare routine for dry skin.

But if you’re just a beginner or already struggling, there is no point in going for a longer routine if you could get overwhelmed or tired. If you’re not CERTAIN you can keep up, you should stick to the routine above, at least for now.

For starters, choose only one “extra” to get started. Don’t overload your skin. Remember to add new products one at a time and wait for two weeks before adding another.

Longer Morning Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

1. Cleanser: Gentle, hydrating, non-stripping (gel, cream, or oil-based).
2. Serum: Hydration boosters (hyaluronic acid, ceramides, aloe).
3. Eye Cream: Hydrates & protects the delicate under-eye area (apply with ring finger).
4. Moisturizer: Hydration + moisture lock (glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides).
5. Sunscreen: SPF 30+, broad-spectrum, lightweight, reapply every 1-2 hours.

Longer Nighttime Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

1. Cleanser: Wash off dirt, oil, and sunscreen (same as morning).
2. Serum: Extra hydration & skin barrier support.
3. Eye Cream: Helps with dryness, fine lines, and puffiness.
4. Moisturizer: Locks in hydration, prevents dryness overnight.

Final tip? Remember that the secret ingredient to great skin for ADHD is consistency, not how many products you use.

The Basic Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

The skincare routine we’ve discussed above is perfect for dry skin + ADHD. Here are the three products you absolutely need to get started.

• A gentle wash or cleanser: Cleans without stripping moisture.
• A moisturizer: Locks in hydration.
• Sunscreen: Protects against UV damage.
• Serums
• Eye Cream

In the next section, we’ll explain each of these steps in the longer skincare routine for dry skin in depth and share tips on how to pick the right products for dry skin. Remember that you should feel free to stick to the basics. They work! We’ll also chat about face masks, which can also boost your skincare game.

ADHD & Cleansing: The Best Facial Wash for a Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

A good facial wash removes dirt without stripping dry skin of hydration and natural skin oils. If you have dry skin, you need a gentle and hydrating cleanser to do this.

If you have dry skin and ADHD, you’ll benefit from our Skincare 101 Course. It covers everything you need to know about picking the best cleanser for dry skin, including:

• Picking the right facial cleanser for dry skin. Look for hydrating ingredients like Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramides.
• Avoiding the 4 biggest face-washing mistakes: Over-cleansing, under-cleansing, skipping the ears & neck, using harsh ingredients
• What dry skin actually needs during cleansing: Gentle products + lukewarm water.
• The best face-washing method: Clean hands → gentle cleanser → massage well → patch test → avoid harsh ingredients. Done!

Best Ingredients for Dry Skin in a Cleanser

1. Glycerin: Hydrates & prevents dryness.
2. Hyaluronic Acid: Holds moisture like a sponge.
3. Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier.
4. Aloe Vera: Soothes & moisturizes.
5. Oat: Soothes and calms skin

Recommended Cleansers for Dry Skin (via AOCD)

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

Some other great options are:

Skin Type	Product Name	Notes	Price Range (USD)
Dry / Dehydrated	CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion	Rich in ceramides + HA; excellent for barrier repair	$12 – $18
	Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream	Lightweight but nourishing; calming formula	$14 – $18
	La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Riche	Deep hydration; safe for sensitive, dry skin	$20 – $25

ADHD & Hydration: The Best Moisturizers for a Sincare Routine for Dry Skin

Here are two skincare terms to understand:

• Hydration: Attracting or putting water into the skin.
• Moisturization: Sealing in that water to prevent dryness.

If you have ADHD + dry skin, you need a moisturizer that does both, so your skin stays hydrated AND protected.

What to Look for in an ADHD-Friendly Moisturizer

• Moisturization and Hydration: It needs to attract or put water in your skin and lock it in.
• Lightweight & fast-absorbing: Lotion or milky textures are best.
• Unscented: Reduces skin irritation & sensory overload.
• Visually appealing: A dopamine-friendly product = more consistency!

Best Ingredients for Dry Skin in a Moisturizer

If you are building a skincare routine that actually caters to dry skin, your moisturizer should have several of these ingredients.

Glycerin: Attracts moisture & keeps skin hydrated.
Hyaluronic Acid: Locks in hydration for a plumper feel.
Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier & prevent moisture loss.
Shea Butter: Deeply nourishes & provides long-lasting hydration.
Squalane: Mimics natural oils for lightweight moisture + soothing benefits.

Moisturized skin = happy skin. Stick with it!

Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin via The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology

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

Some other great options are:

Skin Type	Product Name	Notes	Price Range (USD)
Dry / Dehydrated	Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm	Removes buildup gently; great first step	$11 – $14
	Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser	Creamy, soothing, and fragrance-free	$10 – $13
	CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser	Classic non-stripping option	$10 – $15

ADHD & Sunscreen: Why It’s Non-Negotiable in a Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

Sunscreen is great for all skin types, but dry skin cannot survive without it. If you have dry skin, your skin already has issues maintaining hydration. Exposing it to sun will worsen this issue. This is why skipping sunscreen is one of the worst things you can do for your skin.

Beyond wrinkles, sunburns, and dark spots, skipping UV protection increases your risk of skin cancer (via a 2018 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology). 

What is Sunscreen & Why Do You Need It In a Skincare Routine For Dry Skin?

Sunscreen is your skin’s armor. It protects against harmful UV rays that damage your skin every single day. But here’s the catch: It only works if you reapply it every 1-2 hours!

Understanding SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

Think of SPF like a magic shield:

SPF 30: Strong shield, blocks ~97% of UV rays.
SPF 50: Even stronger shield, blocks ~98% of UV rays (great for sunny climates or sensitive skin).

How to Spot a Good ADHD-Friendly Sunscreen

Choosing a sunscreen can be overwhelming, so look for these must-haves:

• Broad-Spectrum Protection: Blocks both UVA & UVB rays.
• SPF 30 or Higher: Anything below doesn’t cut it.
• Lightweight & Non-Greasy: So it feels good on your skin.
• Water-Resistant: Stays on longer (great if you sweat a lot).
• Unscented or Mild Scent: Prevents sensory overload & skin irritation.
• Visually Appealing Packaging: Because dopamine-friendly products = better consistency.

Best Ingredients to Look for in Sunscreen for Dry Skin

• Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide: Physical UV filters, great for sensitive skin.
• Antioxidants: Protect against free radical damage.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Keeps skin hydrated while protecting it from the sun.

Remember: Sunscreen is non-negotiable if you want healthy skin. Find a formula you love, reapply often, and make it a daily habit! Your future self will thank you.

Need A Video Guide?

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

But if you enjoy longer routines and find skincare fun and rewarding, you might want to add a few extras. ADHD exists on a spectrum, and some people thrive with multi-step routines. If that’s you, here are some hydration-boosting add-ons to consider:

How to Pick the Right Serums with Dry-Skin Friendly Actives

Serums are the treatment phase in the cleanse, treat, and protect routine. This is the stage where you can target any skin issues you have, including dryness, acne, or uneven texture (and many more). They are the perfect way to provide extra hydration and repair your skin.

If you are picking a serum to target any issues, look for these dry-skin-friendly actives that will be a boost for your skin type.

1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) – Pulls water into the skin for deep hydration.
2. Aloe Vera – Soothes and calms irritation.
3. Ceramides – Strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
4. Lactic Acid – Gently exfoliates while hydrating the skin.

Remember to only add serums if you can consistently use them!

How to Pick the Right Eye Cream for Extra Care for Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, you might end up needing eye cream sooner rather than later, especially if you are over 25. The under-eye area is naturally thinner and can get extra dry. The right eye cream can help with:

• Extra hydration for dry under-eyes.
• Smoothing fine lines over time.
• Strengthening the delicate skin barrier.

One important thing to note is that applying eye cream the wrong way can actually stress your skin. The best way to avoid this is by using your ring finger to apply eye cream. It’s your weakest finger, meaning it applies the least pressure and won’t tug on your skin. If you use your dominant finger, it can put too much strain on your delicate under-eye area. Tap gently for best absorption!

To get the best out of your eye cream, look for ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps.
• Peptides: Support collagen production.
• Caffeine: Helps reduce puffiness.
• Vitamin C: Brightens dark circles.

Weekly Extras: The Best Masks to Use in a Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

Hydrating masks are a nice bonus to any skincare routine for dry skin, but not necessary if you’re already using a good moisturizer. Here are some types of masks you should get familiar with:

1. Sheet Masks: Soaked in hydrating serums. Perfect for dry skin.
2. Sleeping Masks: Lock in moisture overnight.
3. Gel Masks: Cooling and soothing for sensitive skin.

Remember to only use masks only if they feel fun and easy to keep up with. If you’re interested in trying a mask out, here are some of the best types of masks for dry skin:

1. Hydrating Mask: Sheet, gel, or sleeping mask for extra moisture. Dry skin needs all the added hydration it can get.
2. Exfoliating Mask: Lactic acid or enzyme-based for gentle smoothing. Lactic acid is the best exfoliating acid for dry skin because it mildly exfoliates and hydrates at the same time.

Too Long Didn’t Read (TLDR)

🔹 The Basics (If You Struggle with Routine)

• Cleanser: Gentle, unscented, hydrating (gel, cream, or oil-based).
• Moisturizer: Hydration (glycerin, hyaluronic acid) + Moisture lock (ceramides, shea butter, squalane).
• Sunscreen: SPF 30+, broad-spectrum, lightweight, reapply every 1-2 hours.

🔹 Want More? (For ADHDers Who Enjoy a Longer Routine)

• Serums: Hydration boosters (hyaluronic acid, aloe, ceramides, lactic acid).
• Masks: Sheet, gel, or sleeping masks (1-2x per week).
• Eye Cream: Hydrates under-eyes (apply with ring finger).