INDIANAPOLIS -
While many people deal with acne as teens, more and more women are turning to their dermatologist to help with pimples.
Local dermatologists tell Eyewitness News, 30 percent of their clinical acne patients are now women, aged 25 to 60.
JoLana Sturgeon, 37, told Eyewitness News, "Every day when I am looking in the mirror, I am not looking at my laugh lines or anything. I'm wondering do I have a break-out today?"
Sturgeon used to buy acne products for her teenager, but now, she's got a set in her bathroom: "My son is 17, and he struggles with acne a lot. I can identify with him, what he is going through."
The mother of five said she didn't have acne in high school but, she's now spending $30 a month to treat her pimples. Sturgeon tried prescription medicine from her family doctor, but hasn't visited a dermatologist.
"I'd rather send my son the dermatologist than go myself," she said.
Dermatologist Christopher Obeime told Eyewitness News that 30 percent of his patients are women ages 25-60, which is up by ten percent in recent months.
Dr. Obeime said adult female acne is "tougher" to treat than child-acne: "It's chronic and leaves dark spots."
The doctor said hormones can create more pimples, but also self-esteem images are bringing more "moms" in his office: "The typical acne patient gets three drugs at a time. You are looking at $1,000 a month if you pay cash. With your insurance, it's $30 a month."
If your acne doesn't require prescription medicine, there are several over-the-counter options. Cleaning kits at a dermatologist's office include cleanser, toner and moisturizer for $100. If you go to a local grocery store, three similar products will cost as little as $15.
The dermatologist said the best over- the-counter pimple creams contain benzyl peroxide. Ten percent might be too much for sensitive skin, so he suggested starting out lower.
The dermatologist said diagnosed acne is covered by insurance. Doctor's offices usually have coupons available for medication.
JoLana Sturgeon
Dermatologist Christopher Obeime told Eyewitness News that 30 percent of his patients are women, which is up by ten percent in recent months.
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