Although rosacea has had a negative impact on the social lives of many rosacea sufferers, the situation usually improves following effective therapy, according to a survey of Rosacea Review readers.

In the survey of more than 700 rosacea patients, 54 percent said that rosacea has often or sometimes inhibited their social lives, and 41 percent reported they had avoided public contact or cancelled social engagements when they suffered flare-ups. More than 58 percent said the effect of untreated rosacea on their appearance had made them the subject of stares, misconceptions, rude comments and jokes.

"I was questioned by a waitress when ordering a drink whether I was driving or not," said one patient. "I get tired of comments like 'Gee, your face is really red,'" said another.

Yet despite these obstacles, most rosacea sufferers push on. In fact, 63 percent of the survey respondents said the disease had not made it difficult to establish new relationships with others.

"Although this does not stop me, it does get frustrating," commented one respondent. "I refuse to let this condition inhibit my social life," said another.

The best news is that for patients who used therapy effectively, 71 percent said this had improved their social lives.

Not only does social interaction become easier following successful medical treatment, but nearly all rosacea sufferers find that good friends are understanding. Eighty-three percent of the survey respondents said they had never lost a friend or other relationship because of rosacea.