Poikiloderma of Civatte is one of those conditions people often notice without knowing its name. It usually shows up as redness or discoloration along the sides of the neck or upper chest, often leaving the center of the neck lighter by comparison.
For many patients, it feels confusing because it doesn’t look like a rash and it doesn’t go away on its own. While it’s harmless, it’s very common — especially in areas that have seen years of sun exposure.
Chronic sun-induced skin discoloration
Sides of neck, upper chest, cheeks
Reduced redness and more even skin tone
What Is Poikiloderma of Civatte?
Poikiloderma of Civatte is a chronic skin condition characterized by a combination of redness, pigmentation changes, and visible blood vessels. It presents as a reddish-brown discoloration most commonly seen on the neck, cheeks, and chest.
How it appears:
Common locations:
Interestingly, the shaded area under the chin is often spared because the chin protects that skin from the sun. This pattern helps distinguish poikiloderma from other skin conditions.
Why Poikiloderma of Civatte Develops
The major cause of poikiloderma of Civatte is long-term exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds.
Over time, UV exposure damages blood vessels, pigment-producing cells, and collagen. The skin thins out and blood vessels become more visible, while pigmentation increases in the area.
Risk factors include:
Fair skin — Most commonly seen in fair-skinned individuals who are more susceptible to UV damage.
Sun exposure — Chronic, cumulative UV exposure is the primary cause.
Hormones — Hormonal influences may play a role in development.
Family history — The condition may run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Age — More common as cumulative sun damage increases over the years.
Geographic location — Living in sunny areas of the country increases risk.
Gender — Women are more commonly affected than men.
These changes are closely related to broader patterns of sun damage, such as solar elastosis, which also affects skin texture and resilience.
How Poikiloderma of Civatte Can Affect Appearance
Poikiloderma of Civatte doesn’t cause discomfort, but it can be very noticeable — especially since it affects visible areas like the neck and chest.
Patients often describe:
Because the neck and chest are often visible in clothing, these changes can feel more prominent. This is especially true when the face has been treated but the neck has not been addressed.
What to Expect During a Consultation
A consultation at Lazaderm is focused on evaluation and long-term skin health.
During your visit, your provider will:
The goal is improvement that looks natural and balanced with surrounding skin.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Treatment for poikiloderma of Civatte can significantly improve appearance, but it takes time and consistency.
Results vary depending on:
Multiple treatment sessions are typically needed. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to preserve results, especially if sun exposure continues.
The goal is clearer, more even-looking skin — not complete erasure of sun history.
While poikiloderma of Civatte can’t be cured, treatments can significantly improve redness and discoloration. A consultation allows your provider to assess the extent of the condition and recommend appropriate options. Treatment typically addresses both the vascular (redness) and pigment (brown discoloration) components.
Preventing further damage is essential for managing poikiloderma of Civatte and maintaining treatment results.
Sun avoidance: It’s best to avoid being in the sun during peak hours from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM when UV rays are strongest.
Protective clothing: Wearing clothes that cover your skin helps prevent progression. A broad-brimmed hat and clothing that covers the neck and chest are beneficial.
Sunscreen: Use a sunblock that is at least SPF 30 with broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply daily to the neck and chest — areas often overlooked in skincare routines.
These steps are critical both for preventing worsening and for maintaining results after treatment.
BBL is highly effective for treating poikiloderma of Civatte because it can address both components of the condition.
How it works: BBL uses specific wavelengths of light to target both the vascular (redness, visible blood vessels) and pigmented (brown discoloration) components of poikiloderma.
Why BBL is ideal for this condition:
Treatment protocol: Multiple sessions are typically recommended for optimal results. Maintenance treatments help sustain improvement, especially with ongoing sun exposure.
BBL is the preferred treatment for poikiloderma of Civatte at Lazaderm.
MOXI is a gentle fractional laser effective for improving pigmentation, sun damage, and overall skin tone.
How it works: MOXI delivers fractionated laser energy that promotes cellular turnover and stimulates collagen. This helps fade pigmentation while improving overall skin quality and texture.
Best for:
MOXI is often combined with BBL for comprehensive results — BBL targets pigment at the surface while MOXI works on texture and tone at a deeper level.
For some patients, a combination approach may provide enhanced results.
Medical-grade skincare: Products containing ingredients that support skin health, reduce pigmentation, and protect the skin barrier may be recommended alongside in-office treatments.
Treating beyond the neck: If you’ve been treating your face but not your neck and chest, addressing poikiloderma can help create a more balanced, cohesive appearance.
Related conditions: Poikiloderma of Civatte shares characteristics with other sun-damage conditions. Your provider may discuss related concerns like rosacea (facial redness and visible vessels) or solar elastosis (texture and collagen changes) if applicable.
If redness or discoloration on the neck or chest is something you’ve been noticing, a consultation can help clarify your options. At Lazaderm, consultations focus on education, prevention, and helping you feel confident in caring for your skin.
