Medical Treatment

Doctor Fish first became famous for their healing effects. They have the ability to soothe and in some cases, heal skin diseases such as psoriasis.

Fish spas are not meant as a treatment option, only as a temporary relief of symptoms, and patients usually revisit the fish spa every few months. Some patients have experienced a complete cure of psoriasis after repeated treatments, but due to the unpredictable nature of the disease, which is strongly influenced by endogenous factors, this is hard to prove.

It has been suggested on many websites that these fish release enzymatic secretions and dithranol (a component of dermatological creams) which helps skin regenerate faster but we have been unable to find any substantial scientific proof of this to date.

The main benefit seems to be the fact the doctor fish soften and break down the area affected by psoriasis, exposing the skin to sunlight and the water.

What’s Involved in a Full Body Medical Treatment?

A hot shower is needed first to clean any perfumes or traces of chemical skin products from the body that might interfere with the balance of the fishes water.

The water is usually quite warm, around 28 degrees Celsius and above. This helps to soften the skin and make it easier for the Doctor Fish to work on.

In the case of a full body submersion most patients like to ease in quite slowly, as it can be quite ticklish at first.

Treatments usually last about an hour and are repeated over the course of a week or longer. Repeat treatments are necessary.