Biolaser center Basel/Saint-Louis : specialized physicians for the treatment of neck and décolleté redness and brown spots

Erythrosis Coli is a skin condition characterized by diffuse redness on the back of the neck, creating a reddened neck appearance. It is often associated with environmental factors such as excessive sun exposure or irritating cosmetic products. Common symptoms include persistent redness, tingling, or a burning sensation on the skin of the neck.

On the other hand, Poikiloderma of Civatte is a skin condition characterized by reddish, brown, and pale patches on the skin, usually on the neck and décolleté but sometimes on the face as well. The term “poikiloderma” refers to a skin alteration with atrophy where one can observe changes in hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation and dilation of small blood vessels (telangiectasia) on the affected skin. It is often linked to excessive sun exposure and genetic factors. Poikiloderma of Civatte is often asymptomatic physically but can be a cosmetic concern.

At the Biolaser Center Basel – Saint-Louis, we understand the aesthetic challenges posed by these skin conditions. Our highly qualified team offers a range of advanced aesthetic treatments to reduce the appearance of erythrosis coli and poikiloderma of Civatte. We are committed to helping you regain healthy skin and a revitalized appearance through our personalized solutions.

Erythrosis Coli – Civatte’s poikiloderma

Question 1

What are the clinical features of Civatte’s poikiloderma ?

Civatte’s poikiloderma is characterised by a combination of redness and/or pigmentation (reddish-brown appearance) with atrophy (thin skin), symmetrically affecting sun-exposed areas such as the sides of the neck and cheeks. Civatte’s poikiloderma generally spares the shaded area under the chin.

Question 2

What are the complications of Civatte’s poikiloderma ?

Civatte’s poikiloderma is usually asymptomatic, but some patients may experience mild burning, itching, episodic flushing and tender skin in the affected area. There is no systemic involvement or serious complications associated with Civatte’s poikiloderma.

Question 3

Who gets Civatte’s poikiloderma ?

Civatte’s poikiloderma is more common in middle-aged and elderly people with fair skin, particularly in those with high levels of sun exposure. The highest incidence is seen in post-menopausal women. The incidence is unknown, as many patients have a mild form of the disease and do not necessarily consult a doctor.

Question 4

How is Civatte’s poikiloderma diagnosed ?

Civatte’s poikiloderma is diagnosed clinically. A punch biopsy may show typical histology with hyperkeratosis, epidermal atrophy, pigment incontinence, telangiectasia, variable superficial dermal lymphohistiocytic infiltrate and solar elastosis.

Question 5

What causes Civatte’s poikiloderma ?

The exact cause is unknown. Long-term exposure to the sun is considered to be the main contributing factor. Other factors include : – Fair skin (Fitzpatrick phototype I and II) – Photosensitising ingredients in cosmetics and toiletries, particularly perfumes. – Hormonal changes linked to the menopause or low oestrogen levels. – Genetic predisposition.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR BROWN SPOTS AND REDNESS ON THE NECK AT THE BIOLASER CENTER IN BASEL/SAINT-LOUIS ?

The treatment of neck and décollete related to poikiloderma of Civatte and erythrosis coli can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual needs of the patient. Here are some common treatment options for these skin conditions:

Sunscreen : The first step in treating poikiloderma of Civatte and erythrosis coli is often to prevent their worsening. Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to avoid excessive sun exposure, which can exacerbate these conditions. It is necessary to avoid all fragrances on or near the affected area, including those contained in soaps.
Topical Lightening Creams : Topical creams containing lightening agents such as hydroquinone or kojic acid may be recommended to reduce pigmented spots associated with poikiloderma of Civatte. These creams should be used under the supervision of a dermatologist or a specialist in aesthetic medicine.
Chemical Peels : Chemical peels can be used to improve skin texture, reduce pigmented spots, and stimulate collagen production. They can be an option for treating erythrosis coli and poikiloderma of Civatte.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) : IPL emits intense broad-spectrum light pulses that selectively target pigmented spots and redness in the skin. It can help even out the complexion and reduce skin imperfections. IPL is often used to treat the elements responsible for poikiloderma by reducing reddish (hemoglobin for diffuse redness) and brown (melanin) spots. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment offers excellent results in significantly reducing the intensity of discolorations for a more comfortable aesthetic appearance. The mixed, erythrosic, and pigmented character of this elastotic skin will prefer IPL over lasers in this indication. IPL is an effective, non-invasive, and minimally painful therapy for poikiloderma of Civatte. It provides a reduction in pigmentation and telangiectasias with a low-risk profile. Additional benefits include subjective changes in skin texture improvement.
Fractional Laser : Fractional laser is a technique that divides the laser beam into tiny fractional beams, targeting specific areas of the skin. This stimulates skin regeneration and promotes collagen production. Fractional laser can help improve skin texture, reduce pigmented spots, and alleviate redness associated with erythrosis coli.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections : For erythrosis coli, hyaluronic acid injections can help hydrate the skin and reduce redness.
Personalized Dermatological Procedures: A dermatologist will assess the patient’s skin condition and recommend personalized treatments based on their needs. This may include a combination of treatments to achieve the best results.

How does a session for treating brown spots and redness on the neck and décolleté unfold at the Biolaser clinic in Basel/Saint-Louis ?

Each session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
The treated area must be clean and dry, not tanned and free of make-up.
Side effects may include increased redness and swelling for 4 to 6 hours and brown scabs (do not scratch) for up to a week.
There is no social eviction.
It is necessary to apply a healing cream and sunscreen a few days after each session.
In general, very satisfactory results are obtained after 2 to 6 sessions. We respect a period of 4 to 6 weeks between each session to allow the skin to rest and regenerate. The doctor will suggest a two-stage treatment if the skin shows a combination of redness and brown spots (hyperpigmentation). This involves first treating the brown pigmentation and then the dilated vessels responsible for the diffuse redness.
However, it may sometimes be necessary to schedule a few additional sessions for extensive or resistant lesions.
An annual maintenance session is generally necessary.

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