Happy feet

KOCHI: We’ve all heard of a spa, but how aware are you of a fish spa? For all those who like their monthly pedicures and manicures, here’s something that should excite you quite a bit. Fish nibbling at the feet, chomping away dead cells from the feet and hands may not be an idea all  are acquainted with. But it’s been a treatment that has been gaining popularity in various salons in the country.The trend has yet to catch on in Kochi, but select salons/spas have started following suit. So what’s a fish spa?  A select fish called Garra Rufa, well-known as Dr. Fish or nibble fish is used for treating rough,lifeless skin. The technique was first tried in Turkey and over a period of time has grown popular in many other countries. It’s not one fish that is used, but hundreds of them are put into the tank-unit. In no time, they go about their business of nibbling and munching on your feet. Nothing to fear though, as they are harmless, though you could feel a bit ticklish. So how does it work? The fish produce an enzyme which heals skin diseases. More fish in the spa unit, the better. Feel like giving it a try? The beauty treatment costs you ` 500 for 20 minutes which is totally worth it. Fish spa is very common in the South, especially in metros like Bangalore and Chennai. Amazingly, many have even started having these machines, costing a whopping eighty thousand rupees, at their homes which makes it all the more convenient. The fish spa unit has been designed with a germ killer system which should allay your fears regarding hygiene matters. “There are one and two seater fish spa units, but customers prefer to go in for the two-seater one,  as it allows you to sit, relax and have a chat with someone ,and almost costs the same as that of a one-seater,” says Hamsa, owner of Marvel Designer Aquarium, near IMA House, KaloorSlowly, the fish spa idea is coming to Kochi. Some who have experienced it vouch that it is a treatment worth taking, primarily because you feel pampered. “It’s a luxury. I wouldn’t say it has better effects than a normal manicure or pedicure, but certainly, it feels different,” says Preetha Nair, an IT professional.Leo Alphonse, owner of Laura Saloon & Spa too thinks the treatment is finding favour. “Once you get it done, you tend to fall in love with the caress your feet gets.”