Some facts about body branding
January 19, 2005
By: Bob Whitehead
Probably the two most recognizable forms of body modification are
tattooing and piercing. However, body modifications sometime take on
other, more extreme forms that are less common. One such practice is
body branding.
Branding is the art of taking an extremely hot iron and placing
it on the skin, causing a third-degree burn. The burn heals into a
raised scar. The branding symbols used will have a variety of
different meanings. For some, it is a right of passage with sacred
meanings. For others, branding is part of dominant/submissive
relationship.
Just as there are rules and safety precautions when it comes to
getting tattooed and pierced, there are guidelines to follow when
you decide you would like to get branded. The metal used needs to be
sterilized and you should only employ the services of a professional
– do not brand yourself or have a friend do it.
When choosing a location to get your branding, select an area of
your body that is fleshy, not bony, and not close to any organs.
Your arm is one such place. The longer the iron is on your skin, the
more dramatic the resulting scar will be.
Keeping your branding clean and germ-free as it heals is
extremely important. Remember, this is essentially a wound and it
requires care. Keep it dressed with a gauze bandage over the first
several days to protect it from the elements. You’ll also want to
avoid touching it when you aren’t applying an antibacterial cream.
Take care of your body during healing the same way you would if you
were accidentally burned, which includes proper nutrition.
If you are considering a branding, discuss it with piercing and
tattoo artists you’ve employed before. They may not be able to
perform it themselves, but should be able to point you in the
direction of someone who can.
About the Author:
Bob Whitehead is a successful freelance writer and publisher of
http://www.body-jewelry-useek.com. Body jewelry, piercing and tattooing information you seek to perfectly adorn your body.
Also See: [ An overview of the
practice of body suspension ]
[ What scarification is and
how it is performed? ]
[ Recognizing and understanding
keloids ]
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