Garra rufa fish munch on a male hand at Nadam Spa near Binh Trieu Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City

Alre popular in China, Europe and elsewhere, soaking your hands or feet in a small tank of water while hundreds of tiny fish remove the dead skin cells is fairly new to Vietnam.

“This species of fish is called Garra rufa. We import them from Turkey for US$6 each,” owner Phuc Nguyen said.

The dead-tissue removal service, which costs VND299,000 (US$17) a pop, lasts for exactly 25 minutes, no more, no less.

“The time must not be too long or it won’t be good for the health. If the time is too short, on the other hand, it’s not enough for the fish to function,” Phuc Nguyen said.

The “little dermatologists,” as Garra rufa are sometimes known, are particularly good for treating the symptoms of psoriasis, and in some instances have been known to cure the disease completely.

And in case you’re worried, no, they never touch living tissue.

More traditional spa services are available at Nadam too, like sauna with infrared rays to help remove dead skin cells, sauna with medicinal herbs, Jacuzzi and others. Phuc Nguyen says his fees, which start at VND85,000, are the lowest around.

Although the benefits of “doctor fish” are still debatable, any male who likes the thought of relaxing with tiny tickles on the hands and feet can find Nadam Spa at 12/29/1 National Highway 13, Thu Duc District, near Binh Trieu Bridge.

Before going there, you should call (08) 3 726 8028 or 0903 974 955 or visit www.adamspa.com.vn for more information.

Reported by Diem Thu