Q. Would having microdermabrasion or a glycolic acid peel help or hurt my rosacea?

A. Many rosacea patients have unusually sensitive skin. These procedures should be discussed with your dermatologist or other physician, and make sure they are performed by a physician experienced in these procedures.

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) has issued consumer safety tips for skin treatments, and additional information may be obtained by calling the ASDS hotline at 1-800-441-2737.

A survey of 1,023 rosacea patients by the National Rosacea Society identified types of skin-care products and ingredients that commonly pose problems for rosacea sufferers.

Although rosacea is a chronic disorder, it can be effectively managed and controlled with medical therapy and avoidance of factors that aggravate the condition. Beyond this, patients can also take various measures that promote healthy skin. Here are some skin health tips often recommended by physicians.

• Drink plenty of water. This will keep skin cells plump, helping to fend off fine wrinkles and will assist in flushing out toxins. Depending on your size, as many as eight full glasses a day may be advised.

In addition to medical therapy, a gentle twice-daily facial cleansing routine can help keep your rosacea under control. Here are some tips that will leave your skin clean without aggravating your condition.

• Use a very mild soap or non-soap cleanser. Any products that might irritate skin are not useful.
• Massage cleanser with your fingertips. A soft pad or washcloth may also be gently used, but patients should avoid rough or abrasive materials, loofahs, brushes or sponges.

A twice-daily facial cleansing and gentle skin-care routine can help control rosacea, according to a new survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society.

In the survey of 1,633 rosacea patients, 78 percent said their facial cleansing routine had helped control their rosacea. Of those surveyed, over 69 percent reported washing their face twice a day and 24 percent said they did it once a day. Most often, 83 percent of the time, facial cleansing was performed at the sink, compared with 39 percent in the shower.

Since sun exposure is a common trigger factor for rosacea, proper sun protection may be a key to staying free of flare-ups this summer. Here are tips for using sunscreen this season and all year round.

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) has issued consumer safety tips for patients considering treatment involving lasers, light devices, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and other medical procedures, and emphasizes that such services should be performed only by a physician or under direct physician supervision.

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.

Sensitive facial skin has been widely observed as one of the most common features of rosacea. Fortunately, however, this problem can be minimized with medical treatment, special precautions in facial care and avoidance of skin-care products that may cause irritation.

Q. I have very large pores and am very oily in the "T" zone of my face. Is this common for rosacea sufferers?

A. There is no standard skin type for rosacea patients. Many sufferers experience dry, flaky skin, while others may have normal or oily skin. The key is to identify your skin type and use medication and skin-care products that are suitable for you.