Fishy Business

Since Fish Pedicures boomed in the UK in early 2010 opinions have been divided over this fishy Foot Pedicure, where by Garra Rufa fish nibble the dead skin off the client’s feet. Many witnessed Fish Pedicure dedicated salons pop up across the country, arousing some concerns.

In February of 2011 a Health Protection Agency spokesperson said: "Following a number of enquiries to the HPA from local environmental health officers over the past six months, the agency is currently investigating if there are any potential risks of infection associated with the commercial use of fish spa pedicures in the UK. The HPA and Health Protection Scotland are currently unaware of any cases of infection associated with the use of the fish spas pedicures in the UK."

This week they released another statement offering an update into their investigations advising anyone with infections such as Psoriasis, or illnesses such as Diabetes, should refrain from having a Fish Pedicure.

We however, think the Fish Pedicure is very low risk as a treatment, providing that it is performed properly by a qualified therapist.  As with all treatments this should include a thorough consultation and foot inspection.

 

So, what were your thoughts on our @BABTAC Twitter debate…

@thegossipbible in some states yes they are. I think #fishpedicures could be great if supervised properly by Therapists who check for contraindications

 

@Grooming_guru @BABTAC (I) think it's immoral myself. At the very least, animal exploitation #fishpedicures

 

@NailsByAma asking questions around regulating the new fad as tightening health & hygiene practices is never a bad thing! #fishpedicures

 

@Alisonpskincare @BABTAC @Radio1 I believe it to be unhygienic and exploiting the fish.

 

@beauty_group @AlisonPskincare @BABTAC @Radio1 we completely agree, it was a crazy fad!

 

@AquavieSpa: I knew this would come to light eventually #fishpedicure

 

@PhaserLimited the risk of infection associated with Garra rufa #fishpedicures is likely to be very low

Get involved with the debate by following @BABTAC on Twitter.