Fish Pedicure in London

Fish pedicures came to London in 2010. I've tried one and can tell you where to go in London and what it honestly feels like.

Garra Rufa fish are used around the world as 'doctor fish' to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis as they suck and eat dead skin. The craze in London is for fish pedicures as has been common in Turkey - where the fish originate - for many years. I've also heard about fish pedicures in southeast Asian countries for a long time.

You remove your shoes and socks and roll up your trousers before plunging your feet into a fish tank on the floor. Each visitor has their own fish tank filled with the same amount of fish. The water is warm (around 35C).

Is It Cruel?

I'm told the fish enjoy eating dead skin and each establishment looks after their fish well. While I had my fish pedicure my daughter helped feed the baby Garra Rufa fish who were not big enough yet to perform treatments.

Is it hygienic?

Each fish tank has a filter fitted and you must clean your feet before putting them in the tank.

Find out more about foot health.

No. The Garra Rufa fish do not have teeth and are known as 'lickers'. Many people compare the feeling to a bubbly foot spa.

Does It Tickle?

Everyone reacts differently but nearly all giggle and say it tickles when they first put their feet in the tank. Most people get over it and relax within a few minutes but I found it incredibly tickly for the whole 30 minute treatment. Most people chatted to friends and almost ignored what was going on but I found it hard to look at my feet as it tickled so much. I left with a feeling in my tummy like I had been on a roller coaster but the general reaction was a little bit of giggling and then enjoying the treatment.

Does It Work?

The claims that you will have smooth feet with no hard bits is quite an exaggeration as I could see and feel no real noticeable difference afterwards. Don't go thinking your heels will be super smooth but think of it as a non-abrasive exfoliation and massage which is said to improve circulation in the feet.

Now you've read a bit about fish pedicues would you try one? Take the Poll on the About.com Skincare site.

I went to Zoola Fish in Camden Market but there are other companies.

Zoola Fish, 214 Camden Lock Village, Camden High Street, Camden, London NW1 8QU

Aqua Sheko, 14 Holland Street, High Street Kensington, London W8 4LT

Fab Fish & Beauty, 789 Fulham Road, London SW6 5HD

Cucumba, 12 Poland Street London W1F 8QB

Bliss Fish, 40 Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7PB