Rare conditions & special situations

Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) — beauty treatment safety

Name: Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS): which treatments are safe?
Creator: Anna

Also called Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, EDS, hypermobile EDS, hEDS, stretchy skin, hypermobility, fragile skin condition.

In short

On this page, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) is checked against 88 treatments: 36 need caution, 7 are ones to avoid and 45 are not yet reviewed. The tightest restrictions are in Injectables and Body Treatments.

Most oftenCaution

Every treatment name opens its own page

Facials

25 treatments · 2 caution · 2 to avoid · 21 not yet reviewed

Facials — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Caution	Mesotherapy (Facial)Also: meso facial, vitamin injections, skin booster injections (face) Why, and the source — Mesotherapy (Facial) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Avoid	MicroneedlingAlso: dermapen, dermaroller, collagen induction therapy, CIT, skin needling Why, and the source — Microneedling EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	PRP Facial (Vampire Facial)Also: platelet-rich plasma facial, vampire facial, blood facial Why, and the source — PRP Facial (Vampire Facial) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Avoid	RF MicroneedlingAlso: Morpheus8, Profound, Vivace, Genius RF, radio frequency microneedling Why, and the source — RF Microneedling EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Not yet reviewed	AHA Peel (Glycolic / Lactic / Mandelic)Also: glycolic peel, lactic peel, mandelic peel, alpha hydroxy peel, light chemical peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	BHA Peel (Salicylic)Also: salicylic peel, beta hydroxy peel, acne peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Carbon Laser FacialAlso: Hollywood peel, China doll peel, carbon peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Classic FacialAlso: European facial, deep cleansing facial, traditional facial We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Cryo FacialAlso: ice facial, cold therapy facial, frotox We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	DermaplaningAlso: blade exfoliation, facial shaving, peach fuzz removal We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Enzyme PeelAlso: fruit enzyme peel, papain peel, bromelain peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Express FacialAlso: mini facial, 30-minute facial, lunchtime facial We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Galvanic FacialAlso: iontophoresis, desincrustation, galvanic current We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	HIFU (Ultherapy)Also: Ultherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound, non-surgical lifting, ultrasound lifting We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	High-Frequency FacialAlso: high-frequency wand, violet ray treatment We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	HydraFacialAlso: hydradermabrasion, hydra facial, aqua facial We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Jessner's PeelAlso: combination peel, modified Jessner We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	LED Light TherapyAlso: red light therapy, blue light therapy, yellow light therapy, LED facial We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Microcurrent FacialAlso: NuFace, non-surgical facelift, facial toning We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	MicrodermabrasionAlso: crystal microdermabrasion, diamond microdermabrasion, MDA We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Oxygen FacialAlso: Intraceuticals, oxygen infusion facial We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Phenol Peel (Deep)Also: deep chemical peel, Baker-Gordon peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Radiofrequency (RF) FacialAlso: Thermage, Venus Freeze (face), skin tightening RF We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	TCA Peel (Medium)Also: trichloroacetic acid peel, medium depth peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Ultrasound FacialAlso: ultrasonic facial, cavitation peel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.

Injectables

11 treatments · all 11 caution

Injectables — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Caution	Biostimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse, Ellanse)Also: Sculptra, Radiesse, Ellanse, collagen stimulators, PLLA, calcium hydroxylapatite Why, and the source — Biostimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse, Ellanse) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Botox / NeurotoxinAlso: botulinum toxin, Dysport, Xeomin, Azzalure, Bocouture, anti-wrinkle injections, wrinkle relaxers, tox Why, and the source — Botox / Neurotoxin Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Cheek FillersAlso: midface filler, cheek augmentation, Voluma Why, and the source — Cheek Fillers Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Dermal Fillers (General)Also: hyaluronic acid fillers, HA fillers, Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero Why, and the source — Dermal Fillers (General) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Fat-Dissolving InjectionsAlso: Aqualyx, Kybella, deoxycholic acid, lipolysis injections Why, and the source — Fat-Dissolving Injections Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Lip FillersAlso: lip augmentation, lip enhancement, lip injections Why, and the source — Lip Fillers Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Mesotherapy (Body)Also: body meso, fat-loss mesotherapy, cellulite mesotherapy Why, and the source — Mesotherapy (Body) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	PDO Thread LiftAlso: thread lift, PDO threads, PLLA threads, Silhouette Soft, non-surgical thread lift Why, and the source — PDO Thread Lift Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	PolynucleotidesAlso: Plinest, Newest, PN injection, salmon DNA injection Why, and the source — Polynucleotides Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Skin Boosters (Profhilo, Restylane Skinbooster)Also: Profhilo, Restylane Vital, Restylane Skinbooster, hydration injections Why, and the source — Skin Boosters (Profhilo, Restylane Skinbooster) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Tear Trough FillersAlso: under-eye filler, under-eye treatment Why, and the source — Tear Trough Fillers Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society

Laser & Light

7 treatments · 6 caution · 1 to avoid

Laser & Light — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Avoid	Fractional Ablative LaserAlso: CO2 laser, Erbium laser, ablative resurfacing Why, and the source — Fractional Ablative Laser EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Fractional Non-Ablative LaserAlso: Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, non-ablative resurfacing Why, and the source — Fractional Non-Ablative Laser Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)Also: intense pulsed light, photofacial, fotofacial, IPL photorejuvenation Why, and the source — IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Laser Hair RemovalAlso: LHR, diode laser, Alexandrite laser, Nd:YAG laser, permanent hair reduction Why, and the source — Laser Hair Removal Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)Also: PDT, blue light + ALA therapy, Levulan therapy Why, and the source — Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Pigment Laser (Q-Switched / Pico)Also: Q-switched laser, Pico laser, PicoSure, PicoWay, tattoo removal laser Why, and the source — Pigment Laser (Q-Switched / Pico) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Vascular LaserAlso: V-Beam, KTP laser, pulsed dye laser, broken capillaries laser Why, and the source — Vascular Laser Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society

Body Treatments

15 treatments · 8 caution · 1 to avoid · 6 not yet reviewed

Body Treatments — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Caution	Aromatherapy MassageAlso: essential oil massage Why, and the source — Aromatherapy Massage Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Body WrapsAlso: algae wrap, mud wrap, paraffin wrap, seaweed wrap, detox wrap Why, and the source — Body Wraps Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Avoid	Deep Tissue MassageAlso: sports massage, remedial massage, firm pressure massage Why, and the source — Deep Tissue Massage EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	EndermologieAlso: LPG, mechanical roller massage, endermology, cellulite massage Why, and the source — Endermologie Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Hot Stone MassageAlso: stone therapy, geothermal massage Why, and the source — Hot Stone Massage Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Lymphatic Drainage MassageAlso: MLD, manual lymphatic drainage, Vodder technique Why, and the source — Lymphatic Drainage Massage Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Prenatal / Pregnancy MassageAlso: pregnancy massage, maternity massage Why, and the source — Prenatal / Pregnancy Massage Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	PressotherapyAlso: compression boots, Ballancer, lymphatic pressotherapy Why, and the source — Pressotherapy Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Swedish MassageAlso: classic massage, relaxation massage, full-body massage Why, and the source — Swedish Massage Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Not yet reviewed	Body PeelAlso: chemical body peel, back peel, body acid treatment We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Body ScrubAlso: body exfoliation, salt scrub, sugar scrub, body polish We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting)Also: CoolSculpting, fat freezing, cool sculpting, Zeltiq We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	EMSculpt / EMS Body TreatmentsAlso: EMSculpt, Emsella, electromagnetic muscle stimulation, HIFEM We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Radiofrequency Body TreatmentsAlso: Venus Legacy, Exilis, body RF, skin tightening RF (body) We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Ultrasonic CavitationAlso: body cavitation, ultrasonic fat reduction, cavi-lipo We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.

Hair Removal

6 treatments · 3 caution · 3 to avoid

Hair Removal — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Caution	Depilatory CreamAlso: chemical hair removal, hair removal cream, Veet, Nair Why, and the source — Depilatory Cream Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	ElectrolysisAlso: needle electrolysis, permanent hair removal, galvanic electrolysis Why, and the source — Electrolysis Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Avoid	Hot WaxAlso: hard wax, Brazilian wax, hot wax depilation Why, and the source — Hot Wax EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Avoid	Strip Wax (Soft Wax)Also: soft wax, strip waxing, honey wax Why, and the source — Strip Wax (Soft Wax) EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Avoid	SugaringAlso: sugar paste depilation, Egyptian sugaring, Persian sugaring Why, and the source — Sugaring EDS skin is fragile in a way that is hard to appreciate until it tears. Wax and sugar paste grip the surface and pull, and skin that stretches too easily and holds together too weakly can lift with them; the scars that follow are the thin, papery kind that do not fade well. Deep tissue massage carries a different risk — hypermobile joints dislocate under pressure that would be unremarkable for someone else. Ablative laser and microneedling both rely on healing that EDS slows. Threading instead of waxing, and very light massage instead of deep work, are the swaps to ask for. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	ThreadingAlso: eyebrow threading, facial threading, khite Why, and the source — Threading Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society

Nails

10 treatments · all 10 not yet reviewed

Nails — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Not yet reviewed	Acrylic NailsAlso: liquid and powder nails, L&P nails, sculpted acrylics We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Builder Gel / BIABAlso: BIAB, builder in a bottle, hard gel, structure gel We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Classic ManicureAlso: regular manicure, traditional manicure, polish manicure We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Classic PedicureAlso: regular pedicure, spa pedicure We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Gel ManicureAlso: Shellac, gel polish, soak-off gel, CND Shellac We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Gel PedicureAlso: Shellac pedicure, gel polish pedicure We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Medical PedicureAlso: med pedi, podiatry pedicure, Margaret Dabbs pedicure We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Nail Strengthening TreatmentsAlso: IBX, nail repair treatment, nail bond treatment We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Polygel NailsAlso: poly gel, gel-acrylic hybrid We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Press-On NailsAlso: adhesive nails, stick-on nails, nail tips We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.

Lashes & Brows

8 treatments · all 8 not yet reviewed

Lashes & Brows — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Not yet reviewed	Brow LaminationAlso: brow perm, brow sculpting We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Brow TintAlso: eyebrow tinting, brow dye We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Classic Lash ExtensionsAlso: individual lashes, 1:1 lash extensions We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Henna BrowsAlso: henna brow tinting We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Hybrid Lash ExtensionsAlso: mixed lash extensions We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Lash LiftAlso: lash perm, keratin lash lift We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Lash TintAlso: eyelash tinting, lash dye We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.
Not yet reviewed	Volume Lash ExtensionsAlso: Russian volume, fan lashes, 2D-6D lashes We have not found a source we trust for this combination yet. Rather than guess, we leave it blank. Ask your practitioner and your own doctor before you book.

Permanent Makeup (PMU)

6 treatments · all 6 caution

Permanent Makeup (PMU) — Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)
What we found	Treatment
Caution	Areola TattooAlso: 3D nipple tattoo, post-mastectomy tattoo Why, and the source — Areola Tattoo Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Eyeliner TattooAlso: permanent eyeliner, lash line enhancement, lash line tattoo Why, and the source — Eyeliner Tattoo Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Lip Blush / Lip TattooAlso: lip tint tattoo, permanent lip colour, aquarelle lips Why, and the source — Lip Blush / Lip Tattoo Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Microblading (Eyebrows)Also: eyebrow embroidery, feather brows, hair-stroke brows Why, and the source — Microblading (Eyebrows) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Powder Brows / Ombré BrowsAlso: machine brows, ombre brows, shading brows Why, and the source — Powder Brows / Ombré Brows Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society
Caution	Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)Also: SMP, hair tattoo, scalp tattoo Why, and the source — Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are inherited differences in collagen, the protein that holds skin and joints together. In practice that means skin that tears and bruises easily, healing that takes longer and scars that spread thin, and joints that move further than they should. None of that rules out mechanical, injected or light-based treatments, but all of it changes how they should be done: gentler handling, less traction on the skin, more support under hypermobile joints, and an expectation of more bruising than the practitioner is used to seeing. How much caution you need depends on your EDS type, so bring that detail with you. Sources: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CEhlers-Danlos Support UKNHSThe Ehlers-Danlos Society

Sources

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part CThe 2017 international classification of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (Malfait et al.)
Ehlers-Danlos Support UKLiving with EDS — skin, healing and bruising
NHSEhlers-Danlos syndromes
The Ehlers-Danlos SocietyEDS types, skin fragility and joint hypermobility

Written by Anna · London-trained cosmetologist

Last updated 3 September 2026

Every treatment, checked