Fish pedicures provide health or cosmetic benefits
the verdict
REFUTED
the evidence says no
refutedsupported
the weight of evidence
2 sources for · 1 against
Medical literature notes that fish pedicures are utilized in spas for cosmetic purposes and skin conditions like psoriasis, but studies indicate a lack of scientific proof confirming their effectiveness alongside potential health risks.
Garra rufa, commonly known as the "doctor fish", is a freshwater cyprinid native to warm regions of the Middle East. Since the late twentieth century, it has been widely utilized in spas for alternative therapeutics and fish pedicures (or manicures) for dermatological diseases such as psoriasis and eczema. Owing to its unique characteristics, there is growing interest in exploring various applications of G. rufa. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the phylogenetic position, ecology, biological characteristics, and breeding methods of G. rufa, and provides insights into its use as a therapeutic fish. Notably, the ability of G. rufa to thrive in high-temperature environments exceeding 37 °C distinguishes it from other cyprinids and suggests its potential as a model for human diseases, such as human infectious diseases, and in use in cancer xenograft models for high-throughput drug screening. The ongoing genome sequencing project for G. rufa aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying its high-temperature tolerance and offers valuable genomic resources. These efforts have resulted in significant advances in fish aquaculture, species conservation, and biomedical research.
Fish pedicures and/or fish manicures are treatments performed in spas involving the use of the living fish Garra rufa. In the last decade, the use of G. rufa for cosmetic and therapeutic reasons has become increasingly popular. The patients are placed into a bath to control psoriasis, eczema, or other skin conditions, but there is no scientific proof of their effectiveness. Most of the infections described in association with fish spas result from minor skin injury and contact with fish carrying such bacteria as Staphylococcus aureus, Aeromonas sobria, and Mycobacterium marinum. Therefore, fish spas in general should not be recommended, particularly for diabetic patients, immunocompromised patients, or patients treated with biological agents.
The Dangers & Risks of Fish Pedicures Search Advertisement Advertisement August 25, 2022 / Health Conditions / Skin Care & Beauty Fish Pedicures: This Trend Is More Than a Little ‘Fishy’ Animal safety and bacterial infections are concerns Image content: This image is available to view online. View image online ( https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/eccfab48-af5b-459c-a083-2bff74bbd1c9/fish-Pedicure-179003793-770x533-1_jpg ) Feet in large fish tank undergoing a fish pedicure. How badly do you want smoother, fresher-smelling feet? For the promise of glowing, baby-soft footsies, would you place them into a cool basin of pint-sized, flesh-eating fish? Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy Though not a new phenomenon, the “fish pedicure” is a growing trend in the spa world. But in terms of health and medical safety, this is a skin trend that you probably want to pass on. Dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD, explains what the fish pedicure is and why you shouldn’t try this funky foot trend. What is a fish pedicure? Well, it’s kind of what it sounds like. Here's how it works: A patron places their feet in a water tub containing carp-like fish called Garra rufa (or “doctor fish”), which are native to the Middle East. In turn, the fish go to work snacking on the person’s dead skin cells. Those favoring the treatment argue that the fish soften calluses, help lighten dark cuticles and increase circulation. However, experts say the health risks — both to humans and to the fish — outweigh any potential benefits. As a result, fish pedicures are banned in 10 U.S. states, Mexico and areas of Europe. It’s important to note that sloughed skin isn’t usually on the menu for these fish, which prefer plankton and plant sources; they only eat human skin when they can’t find anything better. The dangers and downsides of fish pe
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