A carnivorous pedicure not for the squeamish

Also known as doctor fish, these creatures are toothless, and once their work is done, the theory goes, you are left with super soft tootsies.

The treatment originates from Turkey and the Far East where it has been used as a traditional therapy for skin disease. Founder of Appy Feet, Christina Wright, came across it while travelling in Asia and was hooked. Despite a knockback for a bank loan, former head hunter Wright was determined to bring the concept to the UK, so raised her own funds.

I read about the phenomenon when the first Appy Feet opened in Sheffield earlier this year and have been desperate to give it a go ever since. So you can imagine my delight when I was invited to try the piscatorial pedicure at its first Scottish store, the sixth in the UK, at Edinburgh's St James Centre. (There are another 15 in the pipeline for the UK, including one in Glasgow.)

When I tell friends that I'm going for a fish foot spa there are two reactions: intrigue and horror. I arrive at the shop, its second day open, and the place is buzzing with customers.

Feet are washed, then you take a pew beside your individual tank. Once you're sitting comfortably you slowly lower your feet in. Each tank is stocked with about 200 fish, so it's hard not to picture feeding time at the zoo, but surprisingly some of the minnow-sized fish prefer to swim around aimlessly.

The more eager ones gather around your feet and there's a ticklish sensation as they get to work. I expect them to dine solely on the calluses on my big toes, however, there seems to be an overall appeal. When my time is up my feet emerge nicely nibbled and smooth. If like me you have extra hard bits it's recommended you have a repeat visit.

Those with concerns that the hungry little fishies will get carried away needn't worry. They only munch on unhealthy or dead skin, with healthy epidermises left untouched. The thought of becoming fish food doesn't sound very relaxing but once you get used to the feeling, it is. This may be because acupuncture points are stimulated as the fish do their work, which may explain why some customers experience a great night's sleep after their treatment.

Wright tells me that the Garra Rufa never get full. She also says that they have a four-year lifespan. I hope they're allowed a holiday.

Appy Feet, St James Centre, Edinburgh, www.appyfeet.co.uk, 10 for 15 minutes.

This article was first published in The Scotsman, 13 November, 2010