Fish spas have been in existence for a while but it has become more popular in recent times. Fish spa treatments often referred to as fish pedicure or fish massage, originated in Turkey, and it has, since then, spread across most countries.

Unlike other well-known spa treatments, fish pedicure involves a unique procedure that is quite controversial but very effective.

Fish spa treatments may seem like an ancient method for exfoliating your feet but it has proven to be effective and relevant in modern times hence the rise in its popularity.

What Happens In A Fish Spa?

There may be a rise in fish spas, but still, a large number of people have little or no idea of what goes on in them. Before going into the full details of what happens in a fish spa, we can simply sum it up as an exfoliation process.

Exfoliation is a process that involves the removal of a layer of dead cells. The exfoliating process carried out in a fish spa is different from the regular ones you experience in traditional spas.

Rather than buffing your feet with a pumice stone after soaking them In warm water, an entirely different process is carried out in fish spas.

A species of fish known as Garra rufa is the key factor in a fish spa treatment. The professional will soak your feet in a basin filled with water and Garra rufa. The aim of this process is for the fish to eat off the dead skins on your feet.

One unique feature of the Garra Rufa fish is that it is toothless. What this means is that you do not have to worry about feeling pain or getting hurt when the fish is nibbling on your feet. Rather than feeling pain, you will experience a tickling sensation.

Fish spa treatments are not limited to making the feet smooth and callous-free; they also serve as a form of massage. This is why fish spa treatments are referred to as fish pedicure or fish massage. The gentle nibbling of the fish on your feet is as good as having a good massage.

Benefits Of Fish Spas

Fish massage or pedicure comes with some significant benefits and they include:

Smooth and callus-free feet

Getting a pedicure when needed is a necessity for maintaining good hygiene and smooth and callus-free feet. Callus, when left unattended for a long time, thickens up and Causes your feet to hurt and bring you discomfort. The best way to maintain smooth and soft feet is by getting rid of the dead skins on your feet, and an effective way to do this is by going for a fish pedicure.

Stress reduction

Avoiding stress is almost an unavoidable task in today’s world, especially for those with stressful jobs. One of the popular ways to reduce stress is through massage. Fish massage relaxes the body and reduces stress.

Lasting outcome

While buffing and filing your feet produces a satisfactory outcome, fish pedicure produces a more lasting outcome. Soaking your feet in a basin of water filled with Garra rufa for them to help eat up dead skins then adding a little final touch after drying it off is bound to produce a lasting outcome.

Safe experience

Many people may argue about the safety of the fish spa treatment but we still insist that it offers a safe experience. The Garra Rufa fish is toothless, making the entire procedure safe.

Painless procedure

The regular or traditional pedicure can not be described as a painful experience but you are bound to feel little discomfort during the procedure. Fish pedicure, on the other hand, is painless and relaxing. The only feeling you will experience is a tickling sensation.

Conclusion

Fish spas are highly controversial due to the use of the Garra rufa fish but despite the controversy, the popularity of fish pedicure is on the rise. This can be as a result of the benefits that come with it.

However, it is important to note that fish spa treatments are illegal in some areas. Ensure that you do a little research to determine if fish pedicures are legal in your area before going for it.

Lastly, ensure that your fish spa treatments are handled by a trusted establishment and also make sure that all the tools used on you are sterilized.