I have been wanting to write this for a long time.
This isn’t a polished “tips and tricks” post. This is a heart spill, the kind that sits in your head until you finally let it out.
This post is part of my inclusivity series, where I speak openly about the things that matter to me as a makeup artist, a business owner, and a neurodivergent person. It might read like a mix of a personal story, a behind-the-scenes look, and a guide. That is exactly the point.
Here is the truth:
I built my business to welcome everyone, especially the people who have spent their lives feeling "too much," "too sensitive," or "hard to understand." (Me included!)
I have been told many times that "talking to everyone means talking to no one." I refuse to believe that inclusivity makes a message weaker. I believe a makeup artist can run a successful business built on safety, kindness, sensory awareness, and flexibility.
Nobody should ever feel left out.
Why Lived Experience Matters
As someone with ADHD (and possibly autism), I understand deeply what it is like to live inside a neurodivergent brain.
I know why I respond quickly.
I know why my thoughts bounce.
I know why focus comes and goes.
I know why certain lighting, textures, or sounds can overwhelm my nervous system.
That lived experience is exactly why I offer a neurodivergent-friendly makeup experience. It is something I wish existed when I was the client.
I built my business so no one feels excluded:
Not the quiet girl who hates bright lights.
Not the bride who stims with her hands when she’s overwhelmed.
Not the ADHD client who can’t sit still for too long.
Not the autistic client who needs predictability before any touch on the face.
A makeup appointment might seem simple to some, but when you are neurodivergent, your senses can be so loud that even a “fun glam session” becomes a battle with noise, lighting, texture, smells, and social expectations.
Why Neurodivergent-Friendly Makeup Services Are Needed
The beauty industry often assumes every client is neurotypical, able to sit still, tolerate bright lights, handle busy environments, and regulate sensory overwhelm. But many of us cannot.
When people think of “accessible beauty,” they often think about skin tones, shade ranges, or cultural sensitivity. All of that matters, but sensory accessibility is rarely mentioned.
Many of us struggle with:
Temperature discomfort.
Strong smells.
Bright studio lights.
Unexpected physical touch.
Loud music.
Textures that cling to the skin.
Sitting still for long periods.
Decision fatigue.
Sometimes, clients apologise for it. > “I’m sorry, I can’t sit still.” > “I’m sorry, I’m sensitive to that sound.” > “I’m sorry, this feels too sticky.”
You never need to apologise for how your brain works.
I know what it feels like because I experience it too. This is why I shape my entire makeup experience around sensory comfort, clear communication, permission to pause, and giving clients a space where nothing feels “too much.”
How I Approach Sensory Needs in Makeup Services
Everyone has a different sensory profile. Some clients love stimulation; others need calm. Some enjoy conversation; others prefer quiet. Some feel safe with pressure; others need a feather-light touch.
My approach starts with one rule: "Tell me immediately if anything feels uncomfortable."
Temperature, brightness, pressure, noise, textures—nothing is too small to adjust. I ask, "Are you comfortable? Please tell me if anything feels off," constantly. Every single one of my clients can vouch for this—I say it every time.
Here is how I break down the sensory experience:
1. Noise, Lighting, and Environment
Noise and lighting are two of the biggest triggers for overwhelm. Honestly, they are my triggers too.
My studio is naturally quiet because it’s not on a main street, and I like it that way. I used to put music on just to fill the silence, but now I ask clients what they prefer.
Do you want a hype playlist?
Do you want calm sounds?
Do you want absolute silence? I let you choose.
Lighting is similar. As a makeup artist, I need good light, but as a neurodivergent person, I know that intense studio lights can overstimulate the nervous system very fast. I will soften the light, adjust the angle, change the distance, or give you breaks from direct exposure. The environment should feel like a safe place, not a spotlight you are trapped under.
2026 update: I realised that I am VERY sensitive with textures!
2. Explaining Each Step for Predictability
One of the biggest parts of sensory safety is simply knowing what is happening next. Makeup artists often move fast—blending here, tapping there, switching tools—and if you are sensitive to unpredictability, that can cause anxiety.
I talk through what I am doing. Not in a robotic way, but in a way that keeps you updated and safe.
“I’m going to touch your cheek now.”
“This product feels cold for a second.”
“We’re moving to the eyes next.”
“This pressure might feel firm, but tell me anytime if it feels off.”
It sounds simple, but it changes everything.
3. Flexible Communication Styles
Some clients want to talk the entire time. Some barely speak. Some infodump about their favourite music or shows. Some stim when they get nervous. Some freeze and can’t decide on a lip colour.
All of that is normal here.
You never need to perform or mask your personality to fit a “beauty appointment vibe.” I adjust to you. You do not need small talk, and you do not need to force eye contact.
You are welcome to:
Be quiet.
Stim or pace.
Ask questions.
Need space or silence.
I mirror your energy instead of forcing you to follow neurotypical social rules.
4. Texture Aversions: Powders, Sprays, and Weight
As someone who dislikes the feeling of heavy makeup, I understand texture sensitivities completely. Let’s be honest: makeup can feel weird. The cooling feeling of primer, the tightness of setting spray, the "fluff" of brushes—it can all be a lot.
A lot of neurodivergent clients do not like how makeup feels, even if they want the glam look.
I apply in thin layers so it feels like skin.
I avoid anything that feels cakey.
I choose breathable products.
I avoid blasting setting spray unexpectedly.
My goal is simple: You should feel beautiful and comfortable at the same time.
5. Movement and Permission to Move
One thing often overlooked in this industry is timing and movement. If you are like me, sitting still for hours is incredibly difficult.
I am very mindful of body language. I can usually tell when a client is becoming restless or uncomfortable. If it’s not a bridal trial (where we have more time), I can work faster and more intentionally to reduce your time in the chair.
More importantly, I offer permission to move.
Do you want to stand up for a bit?
Do you need to shake your leg?
Do you need a sensory break?
Consent is not just one question at the beginning; it is constant. Your comfort controls the pace.
Final Thoughts: You Are Safe Here
If you are neurodivergent—diagnosed or self-identified—you deserve a makeup experience that feels safe, calm, respectful, and sensory-aware.
You are always welcome to tell me:
Your triggers.
Your sensory preferences.
Your communication style.
Your boundaries.
I built my business to be inclusive because I know how painful it is to feel misunderstood.In this space, your needs are valid.
Your brain is valid.
You are not “too much.”
You are not a problem to solve.
If you want to book a neurodivergent-friendly appointment or talk privately about accommodations, you are welcome anytime.
You are safe here. You are understood here. And your makeup will feel as good as it looks.