Poikiloderma of Civatte
Poikiloderma is a reddish-brown discoloration seen most commonly on the neck, cheeks and chest. You will see small blood vessels in the area along with pigmentation in the skin. It is most commonly seen in fair skinned individuals and may even run in families. The areas tend to be symmetrical and on sun exposed areas of skin. The area under the chin will often be spared because the chin shades that skin from the sun.
The major cause of Poikiloderma of Civatte is long term exposure to ultraviolet light. This includes the sun and tanning beds. Women are more commonly effected than men. The skin thins out over time and the blood vessels become more visible. There also is increased pigmentation in the area.
Risk Factors:
- Fair Skin
- Hormones
- Sun Exposure
- Family History
- Age
- Living in Sunny area of country
Treatment:
- Sun Avoidance – It is best to avoid being in the sun from 10:00am to 3:00pm.
- Sun -Protection – Wearing clothes that cover your skin will help prevent poikiloderma of Civatte. Wearing a broad brimmed hat and clothes that cover the affected areas is beneficial.
- Sunblock – Using a sunblock that is at least SPF 30 with protection of UVA and UVB rays.
- BBL – The BBL is very helpful when treating poikiloderma of Civatte. The BBL is able to treat both the redness and the pigmentation associated with poikiloderma.