A few weeks ago St Julian’s welcomed a host of lively new residents: hundreds of tiny Garra Rufa fish whose job it is to offer natural pedicures by gently sucking away at unwanted dead skin on feet and ankles. The great-value, feel-good therapy promises to simultaneously exfoliate and massage the feet, leaving them softer, lighter and more refreshed.

“This innovative treatment has actually been around in Turkey for centuries,” said Matthew Gatt, one of The Fish Lounge’s directors.  “It is still relatively new to Europe but is gaining popularity very fast, as it is a truly fascinating experience that combines enjoyment and health.”

The experience is great fun and very simple: patrons have their feet checked for contra-indications and then washed to ensure no dirt or residue from beauty creams makes it into the tanks. Their feet are then dipped into the crystal-clear water where the fish instinctively begin to gently suck away at the keratinous layer of the skin, just like mini vacuum cleaners.

Hygiene is an integral concern for The Fish Lounge, and the company has invested heavily in the latest and most effective custom made equipment to guarantee the cleanest water possible. “We’re dealing with feet at the end of the day, and everyone is concerned about the possibility of the transmission of infections,” states Mr Gatt.

“Not only is the experience fun; the treatment can prove very beneficial for certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. We have already had clients with such conditions repeating the treatment. It can also help with circulation and acts in the same way as a reflexology massage, leaving your feet with a wonderful sense of lightness.”