Coming down with a cold or suffering through allergies this spring may be bad enough. Making matters worse, these conditions also cause rosacea flare-ups in many individuals, according to a recent survey on rosacea and other medical conditions by the National Rosacea Society.

"Looking good" isn't just a concern of the young. Mature adults also want to make a good impression, and even those firmly established in long-term social relationships want to be at their best for social occasions.

Here are tips on how to avoid or cope with a flare-up that could imperil your social life.

• Be prepared. In the days before special occasions, take particular care to avoid lifestyle factors that affect your individual condition. Also be sure to use all medication as prescribed in the weeks before.

Some common rosacea tripwires include cold weather, stress, alcohol and spicy foods.

Rosacea may be incurable, but it doesn't have to be out of control. Medical therapy along with the right lifestyle choices can help you get a grip on this chronic but manageable disorder.

The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration, but avoiding flare-ups during this festive time of year may be a particular challenge for rosacea sufferers. Not only do social, family and financial pressures create stress, but the colder climate and holiday eating can impact your rosacea. Here are some tips to keep flare-ups to a minimum: