Medical scientists reported significant progress in uncovering the potential causes and other key aspects of rosacea during the National Rosacea Society's third annual research workshop, held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Society for Investigative Dermatology. More than 130 researchers heard results of ongoing studies funded by the National Rosacea Society, and discussed the need for further scientific investigation into this highly prevalent disorder.

As someone accustomed to the public spotlight, Marlane Fairleigh knows that when you look your best, you feel your best. So, having the red face of rosacea can bring you the kind of notoriety you don't want.

"A rosacea flare-up really bothers me," said Fairleigh, a classical singer and former business consultant and public speaker. "If my face is red, I am afraid people are noticing."

The National Rosacea Society has expanded and updated its Web site, www.rosacea.org, to provide comprehensive educational information on rosacea for patients, health professionals and the general public.

The site features photographs showing the primary signs and symptoms of rosacea, answers to frequently asked questions, printable informational brochures and a diary checklist to help patients identify and avoid lifestyle factors that may aggravate their individual conditions.

Adequate sleep not only reduces stress - a common rosacea trigger - but also allows your skin time to rejuvenate. So, try these steps to a good night's rest.

A new survey by the National Rosacea Society demonstrated the wide variability of rosacea from one patient to another, while mapping the early development of its many potential signs and symptoms.

Q. My rosacea seems to get worse in the fall and spring. Why would this be so?

Sun exposure appears to trigger a substance in the body that may lead to the visible blood vessels that often appear with rosacea, according to research funded by the National Rosacea Society and reported at the annual meeting of the Society for Investigative Dermatology.

"Our initial study showed that sunlight may indeed have a role in causing rosacea," said Dr. Marita Kosmadaki, research fellow, Department of Dermatology, Boston University, who presented results of her research with Dr. Mina Yaar, professor of dermatology at Boston University.