Poikiloderma is a "weathering" of the skin on the front and/or sides of the neck. This reddish-brown mottling discoloration is much less common on the cheeks and chest. It spares the skin under the chin. It is a rather common, benign condition that tends to occur most commonly in fair-skinned, middle aged or elderly women. However, it can begin to appear as early at 20 years of age.
Causes
Cause is unknown but contributing factors include fair skin, accumulation of sun exposure, photosensitizing chemicals in cosmetics and perfumes and hormonal factors.
Treatment
• Use of broad spectrum sunscreens and avoidance
of unnecessary sun exposure (SPF30+)
•
Avoid perfumes on or near the affected area,
including those in skin care products
• Topical medications
• BBL Phototherapy
Common Questions About Treating Poikiloderma of Civatte
Do treatments hurt?
Various anesthetics are used depending on the procedure and patient. Dr. Bucan strives to make patients comfortable and confident prior to their treatments. Any concerns should be discussed with Dr. Bucan at your consultation.
How many treatments?
Treatment with a laser may require several sessions. However, results are much faster than topical medications. Number of treatments depends on the extent of the condition. Type and estimated number of treatments are discussed at your consultation.
Will the condition return?
To help avoid the development and reoccurrence of poikiloderma, minimize your sun exposure. If you must be in the sun, use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. It should be a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which means it blocks both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Apply sunscreen liberally 30 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreens should be applied every 2 hours when exposed to sun regardless of the SPF number.
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