The other day I was over my aunt's house and my cousin said he had something to show me. He lifted up his shirt to reveal an unidentifiable red monstrosity on his back. It looked like he had been burned by several irons. But no! He informed me he had underwent a process of body modification called ‘scarification'. Scarification uses cutting or branding to create designs out of the scar tissue naturally produced by the body as the mark heals. Traditionally speaking, scarification is seen as a rite of passage in Eastern aborigine countries, but this ancient form of body mod is growing in popularity in the U.S.

Scarification through cutting is performed by removing sections of skin with a sharp, surgical blade. The artist uses small medical scalpels that can be easily disposed. The same blade should never be used twice on two different people. Scarification through branding is done by heat using a cauterization tool. The removes skin tissue, forming a burn that will eventually heal into a scar. According to BMEzine, "Scarification operates through controlled injury. It is not safe." Scarification should never be done by someone who is inexperienced or in an unsanitary environment. Practiced properly, however, scarification is considered to be an "acceptable risk." Once healed, the scar will be a pattern of thick, raised lines.

Although the process is quite painful (at least until your endorphins kick in and alleviate some of the discomfort), many people choose scarification over standard tattooing (my cousin included, prior to this he had no tattoos or piercings of any kind). They describe the process as "intense", both physically and spiritually. Rather than being seen as an aesthetic blemish, scars are indicative of a transformation, proof that the individual has underwent a life altering experience; and not only did they survive -- they healed.

[images courtesy of BMEzine + Scarab Body Arts]