Changing one's skin-care routine can go a long way toward relieving the unsightly symptoms of rosacea, according to a new survey by the National Rosacea Society.

In a recent survey of 1,273 rosacea patients, more than 91 percent said they had modified their skin-care procedures to help control the disorder. Of those who had modified their routines, more than 91 percent reported it had helped improve their condition.

More than 76 percent of the patients reporting successful results said they wash their face at least twice a day, and nearly 70 percent said they use their fingertips only, rather than a washcloth, as a means of avoiding abrasion. Most of these patients reported using a mild soap (51 percent) or non-soap cleanser (42 percent), and nearly 60 percent said they use a moisturizer.

More than 94 percent of the patients reported using topical medication for their rosacea, and 61 percent also use sunscreen to protect against the sun exposure that aggravates the condition in many patients. Not surprisingly, very few of these respondents said they use astringents (10 percent), exfoliating agents (5 percent) or other products that may irritate sensitive skin. Of those using topical medication, more than 81 percent said it had helped reduce their symptoms.

Nearly 47 percent of the women reported using standard makeup, and 14 percent said they used green-tinted makeup to help conceal redness. More than 27 percent of the men reported using shaving lotion, although it has been previously noted that such products can cause irritation in some patients if they contain alcohol.

The survey also documented a tendency for the skin to become increasingly dry as patients advance in age. While only 6 percent of the respondents in their 30s reported dry skin, this increased to 15 percent among those in their 40s and to 22 percent among respondents in their 50s. Twenty-three percent of the patients in their 60s said they had dry skin, and 34 percent reported this condition after age 70.