Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a condition in which pain and inflammation are part of everyday life, making the simplest tasks challenging. Hair removal is one area where pain can be an obvious factor for those with CRPS, but is the same true if they choose laser hair removal? Read on to find out.

Understanding CRPS and Laser Hair Removal

CRPS is a chronic condition that leads to long-lasting pain and inflammation in the body. It usually occurs after some form of injury or medical event. CRPS can impact any part of the body but most commonly impacts the arms, legs, hands, and feet. 

According to the National Library of Medicine, CRPS is classified into two types: type 1 (without nerve damage) and type 2 (with nerve damage). Pain management and alleviation are important to CRPS patients so they can get through everyday life. Prescription drugs along with physical and psychological rehabilitation are among the most successful methods to address CRPS.

Can Someone With CRPS Get Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal can help CRPS patients achieve their hair-free goals, but they also have increased sensitivity to account for during treatments. The benefits and risks include: 

  • Potential Benefits: A reduction of ingrown hair and smoother skin with regular treatments. A reliable, better method compared to the pain many CRPS patients endure with other options like shaving and waxing. Additionally, we use cooling methods for customized treatments to suit specific comfort needs of clients.
  • Potential Risks: The laser light heat absorbed by the follicle could result in heightened sensitivity during laser hair removal treatment.

Transparency and education of treatment protocols and techniques are the best ways to help clients with CPRS make the most informed decision.

“I would really educate them on how we deal with pain management techniques, especially with our Chiller,” said Milan Laser Provider Educator Nicole C. “The cool thing about that is it’s been a big hit for a majority of our clients. We can reassure them that we can speed that fan up or slow it down if it’s too much and try to make them as comfortable as possible. 

“We also offer stress balls, which can be a good distraction. There are many techniques we can use to manage their pain, and that is really important.”

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CRPS can impact any part of the body but most commonly impacts the arms, legs, hands, and feet.”

Individualized Assessment and Treatment Plans

Each CRPS patient is different. And finding the proper hair-removal method that’s both effective and leads to limited discomfort takes time. Consulting with your dermatologist or another doctor who specializes in addressing CRPS might be the first step toward finding an effective solution. 

And while laser hair removal has proven effective for those with CRPS, many may not feel the same level of comfort and success. Alternative methods of hair removal may be needed for those very situations.

Woman with curly hair standing and leaning against a sink smiling because she discovered laser hair removal for crps

Ready To Book Your Free Consultation?

Whether you're navigating the literal and figurative pain of hair removal with CRPS or just curious about laser hair removal in general, don't hesitate to book your free consultation. We're the largest laser hair removal company in the country, and we put our clients in the hands of medically-based professionals.

Milan Laser consultation session

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, laser hair removal is safe for people with CRPS. In fact, many times, the concern isn’t whether or not laser hair removal is an option; it’s whether or not they can feel any sensation during treatment.

No, it won’t make it worse. Keep in mind stress is one of the biggest catalysts for CRPS pain. This is why doctors often recommend relaxation techniques as a way to address CRPS.

Clients can find longer-lasting benefits with laser hair removal in the long run. The pain can get so bad with CRPS that laser hair removal may be the only method to use without overwhelming discomfort. The sharpness of a razor or the ripping of wax from the skin might be too much to endure.

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