The Garra Rufa fish, also known as the pooka fish or the doctor fish, was originally found during the 19th century in Turkey and Iran. Turks have been using the pooka fish in their spas for over 400 years as a means of exfoliation.

Are Pooka fish safe?

In turn, the fish go to work snacking on the person's dead skin cells. ... However, experts say the health risks, both to humans and to the fish, outweigh any potential benefits. As a result, the fish pedicures have been banned in 10 U.S. states, Mexico and parts of Europe.

Are Pooka fish illegal in the US?

The procedure became popular because the fish are able to exfoliate and soften the feet in a non-painful way. The fish pedicure tickles but does not hurt. However, these pedicures pose both health and environmental risks, and are actually banned in many U.S. states and parts of Canada and Europe.