For neurodivergent individuals, the concept of beauty holds a unique set of considerations and nuances. Neurodiversity, a term coined by Judy Singer in the late 1990s, encompasses a wide spectrum of neurological differences, including autism and Tourette’s syndrome. The beauty industry, however, often overlooks the diverse needs of this community, creating challenges for those navigating daily routines.
Husnah Jamaludin, a committee board member at the Disabled People’s Association, explains the struggle: “A key characteristic of my condition is the rapid depletion of mental and emotional energy in situations that most people find unchallenging. Therefore, I prioritize streamlined, predictable daily routines to minimize cognitive load.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the neurodivergent community, where consistent skincare and makeup regimens present unique obstacles.
Ann Khoo, a Tourette’s syndrome advocate and strategic planning director, shares her experience: “My heightened sensory processing makes me extremely sensitive to heat and humidity, frequently triggering eczema flare-ups. I compensate by using gentle, yet effective, beauty products. My motor tics often involve touching or rubbing my face, emphasizing the need for well-moisturized, sensitive-skin-friendly formulations.” Many neurodivergent individuals share similar concerns regarding textures, fragrances, and even the sounds associated with certain products.
The scarcity of brands catering specifically to these needs means that neurodivergent individuals often have to undertake a considerable amount of trial and error to find what works. This process of self-discovery, however, can be empowering.
Simranjit Kaur, a part-time TikTok content creator with ADHD, found that developing a personalized beauty routine was a vital step in self-acceptance. “After my diagnosis, I understood my symptoms better. I realized that beauty isn’t about the number of steps, but how I feel afterward. If five steps feel as good as ten, why bother with the extra steps?” This emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and prioritizing individual needs.
Khoo echoes this sentiment: “Balancing my needs with the realities of living with Tourette’s has become an integrated part of my routine. Beauty, wellness, and self-care are interwoven, constantly evolving to meet my changing needs.” This reflects the ongoing process of adaptation and refinement that many neurodivergent individuals undertake in their pursuit of a personalized approach to beauty.
Dr. Dawn-Joy Leong, a researcher and visual artist who is autistic, explains her approach: “Having hyper-acute senses, I prioritized a comfortable, fuss-free routine. Instead of using thick, rich moisturizers, I alternate serums and moisturizers at night. Heavy creams interfered with my sleep, so I had to adjust accordingly.” This underscores the necessity for tailoring routines to individual sensory sensitivities and preferences.
It’s crucial to emphasize that neurodiversity is diverse. While shared experiences exist, individual needs vary widely. This highlights the urgent need for inclusive representation within the beauty industry, moving beyond tokenistic portrayals and embracing the breadth of experiences within the neurodivergent community.
The beauty industry needs to transition away from conventional beauty standards and micro-trends that exclude many. A more inclusive future requires a wider range of products designed with varying sensory sensitivities in mind, along with a shift in how beauty is discussed and promoted. Ableist judgments surrounding beauty routines must be condemned, recognizing that personal grooming plays a significant role in daily life for everyone, regardless of neurotype.
As Khoo aptly states, “For me, beauty isn’t about trends; it’s about listening to what I need. Being neurodivergent has taught me patience with my body’s changes. Age, weather, and sensitivities—they all play a role, and that’s okay.” This perspective serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and embracing the unique beauty of each individual.
