Snake oil for the 21st century

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical History
• Ethics in Medicine

Background:

• Dermatology has historically been linked to quackery, a practice involving fraudulent medical claims.
• The term 'quack' originates from 'quacksalver,' referring to those who falsely promoted ineffective remedies like snake oil.
• This historical association is perpetuated by the continued promotion and use of unproven skin treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the historical and ongoing association between dermatology and quackery.
• To identify specific dermatological treatments and products that exemplify this association.
• To discuss the implications of unproven therapies in contemporary dermatology.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of the term 'quackery' and its roots in medical practice.
• Review of contemporary dermatological treatments and products.
• Identification of treatments lacking proven efficacy in scientific literature.

Main Results:

• The association between dermatology and quackery dates back at least a century.
• Numerous modern treatments, including silicone gel sheets, onion extract cream, AHA peels, and cimetidine for warts, are cited as examples.
• These treatments are often promoted and sold, sometimes by dermatologists, despite lacking robust evidence of efficacy.

Conclusions:

• The historical link between dermatology and quackery continues into the 21st century.
• The promulgation of ineffective skin products and treatments by some practitioners sustains this association.
• Critical evaluation and evidence-based practice are crucial to combat quackery in dermatology.