It wasn't unusual for Bob Vilsoet's face to get particularly red while he played volleyball. After all, the competition was usually fierce, and the game would get his blood flowing.

But when the facial redness persisted, and his face began to look red and "splotchy" all the time, he wondered what was up.

A recent study suggested that treatment of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with peptic ulcers and other gastric disorders, may benefit the often small portion of rosacea patients who harbor this infection. However, another study has found that H. pylori itself does not appear to be a major factor.

A new survey by the National Rosacea Society suggests that common symptoms known as ocular rosacea, which can cause irritation or redness in the eyes of rosacea patients, may be significantly underdiagnosed.

Q. My face is dry but I am concerned about using a moisturizer. Won't it block my pores and prevent my topical medication from being absorbed?

A little personal pampering during and after the hectic holiday season can go a long way toward making you feel good. However, if you plan to visit a day salon for a facial, here are some tips to help make your trip a positive experience.

• Educate yourself. Call around and find out which salon has licensed aestheticians who have worked with patients with skin conditions such as rosacea.

The National Rosacea Society announced that four new studies of rosacea have been selected for funding as part of its research grants program to encourage and support the advancement of scientific knowledge of this widespread but poorly understood facial disorder.

"We are pleased that the number of grant applications has continued to increase since the awarding of the first grants from this important new program last year," said Dr. Jonathan Wilkin, chairman of the Society's medical advisory board, which reviewed and selected the grant applications for funding.