5 Tips for EDS Skin Care

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a rare condition that affects connective tissue, which is important for maintaining skin elasticity and the shape of organs. Many patients experience hypermobility of joints (where joints extend more than they should, causing damage) and hyper flexibility of the skin (abnormally fragile and stretchy skin).

Caring for your skin when you have EDS can be challenging, so here are five tips:

Moisturize

EDS skin is fragile and easily broken. Find a good moisturizer and use it frequently, especially on your face and hands.

Always use sunscreen

Prevent sunburn, which can make skin even more fragile. Wear sunscreen for any sun exposure (even in the winter).

Keep warm

Protect your skin from cold damage such as chapping, for instance. Wear gloves and hats in cold weather.

Protect injuries

Treat injuries carefully. EDS scar tissue can be very fragile. Even after an injury has healed, protect the scar tissue to prevent a wound from reopening. Don’t rip off adhesive bandages as this can cause skin tears. Instead, soak bandages so that they can be removed safely, or treat the edges with oil or lotion to gently release the adhesive.

You can read more about injury care on our “EDS Wound Care” page.

Avoid certain beauty treatments

Avoid common beauty treatments such as wax hair removal that can cause tearing to fragile skin and lead to scarring. Chemical peels can also make the skin more fragile, so it’s best to avoid those as well.

Last updated: September 5, 2019

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Ehlers-Danlos News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.