Many physicians report that spring is "rosacea season," since the changing weather can bring so many rosacea tripwires to the forefront. Here are tips for minimizing the impact of the changing seasons on your condition.

• Limit exposure to wind and cold. When spending more time outdoors, avoid windy or cold days, and cover your face with a scarf when necessary.

• Protect your face from the sun. Sun exposure aggravates rosacea in many individuals. To protect against the longer daylight hours, wear a sunscreen with 15 SPF or higher, even when it is overcast. A sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays is best. Try a pediatric formulation if sunscreen irritates your skin.

• Take care of spring allergies and colds. A recent survey found that allergies, colds and fever cause rosacea flare-ups in many rosacea sufferers. Take precautions to avoid these problems and seek medical help when appropriate.

• Comply with rosacea therapy and lifestyle changes. Because of the potential pitfalls of changing weather, in spring it is especially important to use rosacea medication as prescribed and to avoid any lifestyle or environmental factors that affect your condition.

By taking extra steps to minimize the potential for rosacea symptoms, you can help make this spring a time of renewal and not a time of regret.