Things to know about body mods - branding

As a scar forms it spreads out from the site of the original wound, so branding/scarring designs need to be simple. Also, everyone heals differently, making it hard to predict how a scar will look once healed.

Scarification done by yourself gives the worst results. It's difficult not to flinch, making it hard to get neat patterns or judge the right depth and time needed.

Some body piercers have experience in scarification.

Risks

There's a real risk of the wound becoming infected and this can be very dangerous if the infection gets into the bloodstream. So skin needs sterilising before the scar is made and wounds need regular cleaning with antibacterial solutions/soap.

Other risks include cutting too deep or for too long, or using metal that's too hot or not hot enough.

Removing scars

Unlike tattoos, scars cannot be removed, although it may be possible to cover a scar with a tattoo.

Want to know more?

Find out more about branding and scarification at www.bmezine.com