A recent NRS survey found that while most rosacea patients pay attention to the ingredients in the skin-care products and cosmetics they use, for many it’s a process of trial and error to determine what ingredients to avoid in their particular case.

In the survey of 771 rosacea patients, 90 percent of respondents said they read the ingredient labels of skin-care and cosmetic products before purchasing them, and 86 percent said there were specific ingredients they avoid because of their potential to irritate the skin or cause a rosacea flare-up.

New developments in skin care and cosmetics may increase the comfort of rosacea patients while laying a foundation for managing the condition as well as improving appearance, according to a presentation at the American Academy of Dermatology summer meeting. 

Many spas, salons and clinics offer cosmetic procedures touted to make your skin look younger and healthier, but rosacea patients with sensitive skin need to be particularly aware of potential side effects.  Here are some tips to keep in mind when considering such treatment:

New information about the causes of eye irritation in rosacea and proper skin care were among the rosacea-related topics presented to dermatologists attending the recent 71st annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in Miami Beach.

While cold blustery weather and ever-advancing age can make dry skin a menace for rosacea patients, medical therapy and careful skin care can help manage and control this problem, according to Dr. Doris Day, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at New York University.

Q. I have itching due to rosacea that occurs during the evening and disrupts my sleep. What can I do to alleviate this itching?

A. Sleeping in a room that is too warm often causes itching. A fan or air conditioner may help alleviate this.

The itching also may be caused by overly dry skin or by skin-care products. Avoid rubbing and scratching, which may bring immediate relief but can make matters worse.

Rosacea patients often must take special precautions in caring for their sensitive skin. Here are some tips for healthier looking skin recommended by physicians.

Avoid beauty and skin-care products that sting, burn or itch. Read product labels to avoid ingredients that may irritate your individual condition.

Q. I have special sunscreen, topical medication and special makeup. In what order should these three things be applied to my face?

A. From both medical and cosmetic standpoints, it makes much more sense to apply your medication before applying your sunscreen and makeup.

Rosacea has a formidable opponent in Beverly Kuykendall. The 53-year-old computer assistant from Texas was diagnosed with the disorder more than 20 years ago, but she has never let her guard down in the battle against rosacea's signs and symptoms. She arms herself with as much knowledge about the condition as possible, so much that friends refer to her as a "cornucopia of information."

The best offense against a common skin problem such as rosacea is a strong defense, according to Charla Krupp, noted beauty expert and best-selling author, in offering some "makeup makeover" tips and other advice to help rosacea sufferers look their best.

One of the first and most important steps a rosacea patient should take is to ask his or her dermatologist for help in formulating a skin-care plan as early in treatment as possible, Ms. Krupp said. "The average woman spends $100 on beauty products each month, and trial and error is just too expensive."