Poikiloderma of Civatte

Llasers including the Vbeam are used to reduce and in many cases eliminate the redness and enlarged blood vessels that are seen in rosacea. These same lasers markedly improve the redness of the neck seen in the condition called poikiloderma of Civatte.

Poikiloderma of Civatte characteristically spares the shaded area under the chin. The skin in the affected skin is red-brown with prominent hair follicles. The term "poikiloderma" refers to a change in the skin where there is thinning, increased pigmentation and dilation of the fine blood vessels (telangiectasia).

Civatte was a French dermatologist who first described a common weathering change which affects the skin of the sides and front of the neck.

Cause of Poikiloderma of Civatte

The exact cause is unknown. Contributing factors are:

• Photosensitizing components of cosmetics and toiletries especially perfumes
• Skin which is fair in color
• More exposure to sun
• Various Hormonal factors

Treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte

Several treatment sessions are required leaving the skin bruised for several days after each visit.

Avoid all perfumes on or near the affected area, including those in soap .

Intense pulsed light offers a reduction of pigment and telangiectasias with a low risk profile. Additional benefits include subjective changes of improvement in skin texture.

Exfoliants including long term use of alpha hydroxy-acids and/or tretinoin