Visitors to Sarasota can now add this fishy pedicure to the list of odd and quirky things to do on their next vacation to Florida's Cultural Coast. Commonly called doctor fish, these scaly spa technicians leave feet invigorated and smooth following a 25-minute treatment that's a bit tingly and ticklish. Definitely a treatment befitting any mermaid.
What Exactly is Ichthyotherapy?
The concept of using live fish for pedicures stems from Turkey where a fish species of carp (Garra rufa) is used in the treatment of psoriasis. The tiny brownish-green fish, no longer than four centimeters (about 1.5 inches), are toothless and feed on dead skin cells.
The concept called ichthyotherapy (using fish to treat illness) has been adopted by many Asian countries for health and beauty purposes. The fish remove tired and dead skin cells encouraging new growth for a more youthful appearance and it's believed the process also improves circulation.
Today, ichthyotherapy is entering the Western beauty world. Spas in the United States are beginning to use carp for live fish pedicures and massage, leaving customers with smooth skin and something to talk about. Doctor Fish is a Virginia-based company franchising the opportunity.
The Live Fish Pedicure Experience at A.J. Salon and Spa
A.J. Salon and Spa's live fish pedicure service launched in early September 2008. The Sarasota day spa spent $40,000 renovating a room to accommodate fish pedicure customers. Located in a room tucked away in the back of the spa, lighting is subdued and flickering candles offer a warm glow. Prior to the treatment feet are sanitized in a saline-type solution. Cushioned benches offer comfortable seating and six freshwater tanks await rough and calloused feet.
Water is slightly above room temperature, not hot but comfortable. Once feet are dipped into the tank, the hungry carp begin their duty as pedicure technicians. The sensation is a mix of tingly and ticklish as the 200 fish nibble away dead skin cells, almost as if the feet are placed in vibrating socks. After 25 minutes, feet feel fresh, smooth and revitalized. A standard pedicure follows the live fish pedicure including nail trimming, massage and toe painting. The service costs $35.
Between live fish pedicure treatments, the carp are removed and the treatment tank is drained, scrubbed and filled with fresh water in preparation for the next client. A.J. Salon and Spa has 5,000 hungry fish on duty and the scaly technicians have a life span of about six weeks. The fish don't spread diseases.
Barefooting with A.J. Salon and Spa
Before barefooting on Siesta Key Beach, Lido Beach or Longboat Key, Sarasota vacationers will want to stop at A.J. Salon and Spa for a live fish pedicure to ensure their toes are the prettiest on the powder-white sand. In addition to live fish pedicures, the day spa offers manicures, massage, facials, waxing and hairstyling. The day spa is located at the intersection of Bee Ridge and McIntosh in the Sweetbay Shopping Center, 4220 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota; Tel: (941) 371-4997. Walk-ins are welcome. Open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Read "A Fish Pedicure with Health Benefits" for a Fort Myers salon which offered the fish pedicures.
March 31, 2009, Author's Note: Since this article was originally published, the Florida Board of Cosmetology released a statement in February 2009 announcing the ban on live fish pedicures in the state because they violate the rules prohibiting pets or animals in salons and the standards for pedicure sanitation.
Jennifer Huber - A 20-year veteran of the tourism industry, Jennifer's career path began during college when she followed the hiking path in Yellowstone ...
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