The advances in dermatology have revolutionized not only the treatment of skin diseases, but also brought forth better options for many cosmetic & beauty related problems. This has led to increased importance and demand for dermatology specialties. However, many underqualified but also unqualified persons (Quacks) pose themselves as dermatologists, cosmetic/aesthetic dermatologists and exploit the public for commercial objectives.

Any doctor who practices and prescribes medicines about which he is not qualified in and not registered under the council constituted by law is a mere pretender to the knowledge in that system and is a quack. A Supreme Court ruling in 1996 defines anyone practising modern medicine without training in the discipline, even if they are trained in alternative systems of medicine as quacks. The Indian Medical Council Act of 1956 regulates practice of allopathic medicine. Section 15 (2)(b) requires that only those who are registered on state medical register alone can practice Allopathic medicine and secondly the prohibition is directed against every person who is not registered on any state medical register and all such person are precluded from practising allopathic medicine.

The common patient is not only misled by the Quacks but also, they end up with medical complications. Of late there is mushrooming of these quacks throughout India not only in cities but also in districts and taluk areas where the ignorance is more and awareness of authentic qualifications is less. IADVL as a part of social responsibility, has taken up the issue of quackery, which is causing undesired adverse effects and medical complications. IADVL has constituted a specific committee, IADVL Taskforce Against Quackery (ITAQ) to deal with Quackery and to take necessary steps with various statutory authorities against quacks who are claiming themselves as Skin Specialists/Cosmetologists/Aestheticians.

Keywords: Dermatology, IADVL, Skin, hygiene, Leprosy, Steroid abuse, schedule-H, Quackery