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The Complete Guide to ADHD & Running a Business in the Beauty Industry.

Updated: Aug 3

Beauty Business with ADHD.


Running a beauty business is challenging enough, but add ADHD into the mix, and it can feel like juggling hot wax strips. You’ve got brilliant ideas, huge passion, and incredible skills, but also… overwhelm, time-blindness, and the occasional hyperfocus that keeps you up past midnight redesigning your treatment menu.

Here’s the thing: ADHD isn’t a business weakness, it’s a different operating system. With the right tools, strategies, and boundaries, you can run a successful, profitable beauty business your way. This guide will show you how.



1. Understanding ADHD in the Beauty Industry

The beauty industry is fast-paced, creative, and client-focused, perfect for ADHD brains. But it’s also admin-heavy, routine-based, and detail-focused—things that can drain your energy fast.

Common ADHD Challenges in Beauty Businesses:

  • Time management & appointment scheduling.

  • Paperwork, stock ordering, and follow-up admin.

  • Switching between treatments without burning out.

  • Keeping consistent marketing efforts.

'ADHD isn’t a weakness in you beauty business, it’s a different operating system.'



2. Systems That Work for ADHD Beauty Pros Businesses.

Forget cookie-cutter business systems, they often fail ADHD business owners because they’re built for neurotypical brains. You need systems that are simple, flexible, and built for how you work.

ADHD-Friendly Business Systems:

  • Booking & reminders: Use automated booking apps (e.g., Ovatu, Fresha) with client reminders.

  • Task batching: Group similar tasks (stock orders, marketing, emails) into one block.

  • Visual planning: Colour-coded calendars or Kanban boards for visibility.

  • Accountability: ADHD coaching or business mentor check-ins.



3. Playing to Your Strengths

ADHD brings some incredible strengths to the beauty world:

  • Creativity & problem-solving.

  • High energy in client interactions.

  • Passion for learning and innovation.

  • Ability to adapt quickly.

The secret? Build your business around these strengths, rather than forcing yourself into systems that don’t suit you.



4. Managing Overwhelm & Burnout

ADHD brains can go from 100% energy to zero fast, especially in a people-heavy industry.

Practical Ways to Reduce Overwhelm:

  • Schedule recovery time after busy days.

  • Limit back-to-back high-energy treatments.

  • Set boundaries with clients (your time is valuable!).

  • Keep marketing simple and sustainable.



5. Marketing for ADHD Business Owners

Marketing can feel overwhelming—especially with ADHD—but it doesn’t have to be.

ADHD-Friendly Marketing Tips:

  • Pick 1–2 platforms you enjoy (don’t try to be everywhere).

  • Repurpose content—turn a treatment demo into multiple posts.

  • Use templates for graphics and captions.

  • Schedule posts in batches instead of daily.



ADHD doesn’t mean you can’t run a thriving beauty business—it means you’ll do it differently. By creating systems that work for your brain, leaning into your strengths, and building sustainable habits, you can grow a business that’s successful, profitable, and energising (without burning out).



Alexandra Beauty Expert.

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