23/06/2025
Thinking of a Fish Pedicure on holiday? Think again! 😳
Having just gotten back from a trip to Spain, I was pretty icked out by the number of open front salons offering ‘fish pedicures’ and even more horrified by how busy they were with tourists.
While fish pedicures might seem like a quirky holiday treat, they come with serious hygiene and ethical concerns that most people don’t realise.
🦠🍄 The water isn’t changed between customers, meaning bacterial and fungal infections can spread easily, increasing your risk of athlete’s foot, verrucae, cellulitis, and even hepatitis.
🐟 Unlike tools in a regulated clinic, these little fish (Garra rufa) can’t be sterilised between treatments - see above for infection risks!
💔 Aside from the hygiene implications, many of these poor fish are kept in inhumane, overcrowded conditions with no enrichment. They may even be starved to encourage them to nibble at dead skin.
🛑 In short, those fish and your feet deserve better - do not encourage this practice!
If you’re looking to care for your feet, opt for proper foot hygiene, supportive footwear, and schedule a professional podiatry check-up when you’re home.
