Investigation of Complementary and Alternative Treatment Preferences for Premenstrual Period Acne Problems in Adolescents Using Structural Equation Modeling: Descriptive Cross-Sectional Research

Objective: This study aims to investigate the complementary and alternative treatment (CAT) preferences of adolescent students for acne problems they experience during the premenstrual period using structural equation model. Material and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in cross-sectional design between February-May 2025 at the faculty of health sciences of a foundation university, and 244 female adolescents aged 18-19 years were included. Data were obtained using personal information form and Traditional and Complementary Medicine Attitude Scale (TCMAS). Data were analyzed with SPSS 26.0 and AMOS programs, and relationships between variables were examined with structural equation modeling. Results: The mean age of participants is 18.92±0.26. 79.9% of adolescents use at least one CAT method in acne treatment. The most frequently used methods are natural masks (48.2%), steam bath/face cleaning (45.1%) and herbal products/oils (41.5%). The perception of being ''natural and safe'' (60.5%) ranks first as the reason for CAT use. According to structural equation model results, acne problem frequency (β=0.122; p=0.050) and acne severity perception (β=-0.160; p=0.010) significantly affect CAT use. TCMAS total score average is 109.47±29.14, and only acne type variable significantly affects TCMAS score (β=0.164; p=0.009). Conclusion: The vast majority of adolescent women experiencing acne during premenstrual period prefer CAT methods by finding them safe and natural. Acne frequency and severity perception have been determined as determining factors in CAT use. It is recommended that health professionals support safe use with evidence-based approaches by understanding adolescents' CAT preferences.