Cutting is an extreme body modification and should not be confused with self injury. Small cuts or large areas of skin are removed to form a design by a professional body modifications specialist. The cuts create a scar, which is much like the idea of having a tattoo. The scar is a permanent piece of art. However, it is flesh colored and harder to see than a tattoo. Whether cutting should or shouldn't be allowed, it should always be done by someone with tons of experience and in a professional environment!
The process of scarification is pretty simple and sterile (when dealing with a professional). However, the process can be quite painful. The professional body modifications specialist will prep the skin using surgical scrub or Green Soap, which can be used for a variety of things. The area is cleaned thoroughly to prevent infection and other problems. The design will be transferred to the skin using carbon paper, from the stencil machine/thermal copier, or a surgical pen. Simple designs are easiest, since a scalpel may be difficult to drag across the skin. Surgical grade scalpels
should always be used that are wrapped individually for sterile purposes. The professional can’t guarantee what the scar will look like, since everyone scars differently. The wound should be wrapped until the bleeding stops. The rest of the scarification process is unlike caring for a regular cut.
The most important part of cutting is the healing process. Proper aftercare is essential, but the main purpose of the cut is to create a scar. Aftercare can be purchased at sites such as Painful
Pleasures. The cut should be cleaned twice a day using Green Soap or a mild soap and water. It should also be kept dry and free of ointments such as Vaseline. People that have undergone the cutting process believe that picking at scabs may create a better scar. It is also believed that an abrasive cleaning pad, like Scotch Brite) soaked with hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol can also create a scar, by scrubbing the cut daily. Although it may sound painful, reopening the wound will create a bigger and more noticeable scar. If, at any point during the scarification process, the cut becomes infected, one should seek immediate medical attention by a doctor or licensed professional.
The cutting process that leads to scarification is definitely an extreme body modification. It is not for the faint at heart!