Ever dipped your toes into a fish spa? I recently did, and let me tell you, it’s an experience that is intriguing and oddly therapeutic at the same time.
If you’re unfamiliar, a fish spa, or fish pedicure, involves dipping your feet in a tank filled with tiny Garra rufa fish, also known as “doctor fish.” These little guys gently exfoliate by removing dead skin cells, leaving your feet feeling smooth.
My first encounter: curiosity and hesitation
Admittedly, I approached the fish spa with a healthy dose of skepticism. The idea of tiny fish nibbling on my feet? That sounded… weird. But being a travel blogger always on the hunt for unique experiences, I decided to take the plunge.
The moment I lowered my feet into the warm water, a swarm of Garra rufa approached. The initial sensation was, well, ticklish as hell! Imagine a thousand tiny bubbles gently brushing against your skin. It took a moment for me to adjust, but soon the tickling sensation morphed into a gentle, almost relaxing massage. (I can imagine that the tickling might be a no go for some of you though…)
The science behind
These fish, native to the Middle East, are naturally drawn to nibbling on skin. They don’t have teeth; instead, they use their lips to gently suction and remove dead skin cells. This natural exfoliation process is said to stimulate blood circulation and leave your skin feeling refreshed.
While the scientific community is still debating the full extent of the benefits, many swear by the spa’s ability to alleviate skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Personally, I can only attest to the immediate smoothness of my feet, and I am naturally skeptical to a more medical approach than that.
Choose carefully
Mark my words: It is really important to choose a location that follows hygiene standards! The water must be properly filtered and frequently changed, and the fish should of course be healthy. I’m pretty sure that not all fish spas check all minimum standard boxes.
Tips for your fish spa visit
- Do your research: Choose a reputable spa with high hygiene standards. (Did I say “Mark my words?”)
- Be aware of regulations: Some countries have banned fish spas due to hygiene concerns.
- Check your health: You should not use a fish spa if you have any open cuts or wounds. And if you have any other concerns, consult a medical professional before trying a fish spa.
- Prepare your feet: Wash your feet thoroughly before entering the tank.
- Relax and enjoy: Embrace the ticklish sensation and let the fish do their work.
- After the visit: Personally, I washed my feet even after the visit. Of course, I used a foot cream to keep the softness.
My verdict
Beyond the exfoliating benefits, the fish spa offers a unique sensory experience. The gentle nibbling, the warm water, and the sight of hundreds of tiny fish working in unison on my feet create a strangely calming atmosphere. It was almost meditative.
The fish spa was undoubtedly a memorable experience. A blend of novelty, relaxation, and a touch of the bizarre. While it might not be for everyone, I’d recommend giving it a try if you’re looking for something different – and smooth feet of course. Just be prepared for a tickle!
Have you tried a fish spa you can recommend? Send me an e-mail on hello@adventury.se!