Scarification

Scarification is a permanent body modification that uses scar tissue produced by the body to form designs, pictures, or words in the skin. Scars are most often formed by cutting or branding the skin. Scarification is sometimes called cicatrization (from the French equivalent).

Dangers/Cautions

Scarification is intentionally causing harm/trauma to the skin -- it is not safe. However, assuming that the scarification artist and the person getting the scarification are well informed, scarification falls within the category of "acceptable risks."

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• Infection is obviously a concern. Not only do the materials for inducing the wounds need to be sanitary, but the wound needs to be kept clean, using anti-bacterial solutions or soaps often, and having good hygiene in general. It is not uncommon, especially if the wound is being irritated, for a local infection to develop around the wound. A strong immune system will heal this local infection in due time, but the bearer of the wound/scar needs to pay close attention to make sure the infection is not spreading and that they are not showing any signs that the infection has spread into their bloodstream, in which case a doctor needs to be contacted.
• The scarification artist needs to have a working knowledge of the anatomy of human skin, in order to prevent cutting too deep, burning too hot (or cold), or burning for too long.
• Scarification isn't nearly as popular as tattooing, so it is harder to find experienced artists, and for artists to get experience.
• Precautions are made for brandings, such as wearing masks, because it is possible for diseases to be passed from the skin into the fumes produced when the skin is burning.