Background: This study examined the frequency of the use of complementary and alternative therapies by patients diagnosed with acne vulgaris (AV).
Methods: This study included 375 patients who attended dermatology outpatient clinic and diagnosed as acne vulgaris. A questionnaire was filled by using face to face interview technique.
Results: Of 375 patients surveyed, 55.6% were using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for their disease. The three most common types of CAM were various cosmetic soaps (44.3%), application of clay (34.9%), and application of lemon juice (33%). 75.9% of the patients have learned these methods from family members and/or friends. The main reasons for choosing CAM were related to beliefs about efficacy and /or safety of these methods and concerns with the side effects of prescribed medications. Approximately half of the patients who used CAM felt that the CAM therapies were beneficial.
Conclusion: When considering probable adverse effects of CAM therapies, dermatologist and family physcians should be aware of the high prevalence of use among patients with AV and be prepared to discuss the use of CAM with patients.
Key Words: Acne Vulgaris; Complementary Medicine; Alternative Therapies.
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