Fish Pedicures – too weird for some?
Although fish pedicures have been banned in some States in the US over fears of spreading disease and infections, they are common in Asia and are still gaining in popularity here and in parts of Europe. Originating in Turkey and the Middle East, the tiny toothless Garra Rufa fish, which are members of the carp family, occur naturally in hot springs and fresh water spa pools. They eat dead and damaged skin and have been used for over 400 years as a healing therapy for sufferers of skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. In the West a typical pedicure consists of placing your feet into a warm water tank containing about 200 fish for 15 minutes, during which time the Garra Rufa ”nibble” away the dead skin. The sensation felt has been described as light and tickling, like bubbles bursting. Not only are your feet exfoliated and revitalized, but it is also claimed that blood circulation is increased and acupuncture points are stimulated leading to a more relaxed nervous system. While these fish undoubtedly have the ability to get rid of dead skin cells the question of hygiene has been raised. Is it enough that the tanks are filtered and the water changed every fifteen minutes? And what about the Garra Rufa? Are they exposed to potentially toxic substances from human feet, such as sunscreen and moisturizers? Before being allowed in the tank feet must be washed and checked by a spa employee for open wounds and contagious warts. There have been no reports of infections so far.
What do you think? Too weird or not?