A Fishy Business

Garra Rufa Fish in action

Having fish nibble away at dead and dry skin is a relaxing, and natural way to pamper the feet…a little bizarre yes, however the desire for Fish Therapy is one on the rise.

Originally used to treat psoriasis in Turkey, fish therapy is a relaxing, indulgent, and highly natural means of removing dead skin from the feet. Proving a winner in Turkey and Japan, Fish Therapy has taken one successful dive into the world of spa treatments. Spreading across the world these little fish bringing hundreds of people smooth and soft toes!

Being very small fish with no teeth, the Guarra Rufas slowly eat away at the dead and hard skin on the feet, whilst also providing a light nibble-massage. With individual tanks full of approximately 150 – 200 of the fish, participants have to submerge their feet into the tanks for around 20 – 30 minutes. The sensation is completely painless, and supposedly provides a feeling like a light massage, with occasional tingling and tickling as the fish get to work.

Submerging your feet into a pool of water and watching your dead skin being eaten away is not a past time many would opt for, however, this new Fish Therapy is a rapidly growing trend that has recently brought itself to Brighton. Asase Garra Rufa Spa (www.asasespa.co.uk) has recently opened at 19 Brighton Place, and with prices from £20 for a 20minutes, anyone can enjoy having a little fish nibbling session.

For me however, I think I shall stick to the pumice stone.