Sun exposure is a leading rosacea trigger, so here are some tips to help you to safely survive the spring and summer sun:

•  Find the right sunscreen formula.  There are two types of damaging rays: In general, UVA rays age skin; UVB rays burn it.  Not all sunscreens protect against both types, so look for non-chemical sunscreens that contain zinc or titanium dioxide and an SPF of 15 or higher.

While the list of potential lifestyle and environmental factors that may aggravate rosacea is long – ranging from sun and wind to spicy foods, heavy exercise and heated beverages – not everyone is affected by them all. With a little detective work, you can identify and avoid only those things that affect your individual case.

Your dermatologist can be your best defense in keeping your rosacea at bay. Here are some tips to maximize your office visits:

• Be prepared. If you have questions or concerns, write them down ahead of time so you don't forget to discuss any of them.

• "Out of sight" should not mean "out of mind." Alert your doctor about any signs or symptoms that cannot be seen, such as eye discomfort or skin that stings or burns.

Cosmetics can instantly improve the look of your skin and boost your self-confidence about your appearance. Here are some tips to help you look and feel your best.

Sufferers of ocular rosacea, a subtype characterized by irritated eyes, may find their symptoms worsen during unpredictable spring weather. Here are some tips to help ease your seasonal discomfort:

While medical therapy and lifestyle changes to avoid triggers are the cornerstones of any rosacea treatment plan, many rosacea patients have adopted various measures they believe may help their individual cases. Although what may work for one patient may not work for another, the following are some tips sent to the National Rosacea Society from our readers to share with others.

• "During the pollen seasons, I sometimes use antihistamine eyedrops to control itchiness."

Dinner at a nice restaurant can be a great way to relax and unwind — unless you are a rosacea patient whose condition is affected by any number of food and beverage triggers. To reduce the chances of a flare-up and increase your enjoyment when dining out, follow these tips:

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.

Some articles about rosacea, particularly those reporting results of scientific studies, may contain unfamiliar medical terminology. Here is a list of some frequently used rosacea terms and their meanings.

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids.

• Chalazion: A lesion on the eyelid due to plugging of the meibomian glands.

• Edema: Swelling from abnormally large amounts of fluids in the tissues.

Insensitive questions about facial appearance can be a double whammy for rosacea sufferers — the questions may not only cause embarrassment, but can lead to stress that may make the symptoms even worse. Fortunately, however, rosacea patients can usually bring this potentially destructive cycle to a halt by reacting positively, according to psychologists familiar with dermatological disorders.