SCARIFICATION / CUTTING

A SHARP EXPERIENCE

ART IN THE SKIN

“Scarification” (Latin: scarificatio/scarifatio, scratching/scarifying) refers to the creation of decorative scars in the skin. Depending on the method, the terms cutting or branding are also used. (Quote: from www.wikipedia.de)

The creation of decorative scars is deeply rooted in the traditions of various African peoples and is probably the oldest form of body modification. It is especially widespread among ethnic groups whose dark skin would not allow tattoos or where tattoos would only be poorly visible. Most people are familiar with scars among indigenous peoples (e.g. from Africa) as decoration or as a sign of belonging to a clan or group.

In Western culture, scars are usually only associated with injuries. Scarification is not about scars from head wounds or cuts reaching the bone, but about artistic decoration of the skin. Essential requirements for a flawless result are experience, anatomical knowledge, and above all, hygienically flawless and precise work.

TECHNIQUE

Cutting with a scalpel is the most technically professional way to create scars in a controlled manner. The scalpel allows for very fine and precise work.

Depending on the desired design, either only the skin is cut (down to the dermis) or larger areas of skin are removed (skin removal).

LANGER’S LINES

The body is crossed by cleavage lines. These mark the direction of the skin’s least elasticity. Cuts made along these lines spread apart less than cuts made across them.

In cutting, these cleavage lines significantly influence scar formation. The skin in certain body areas is under greater tension, which can result in unevenly wide scars. This should be taken into consideration when choosing both the design and the body area.

BODYMOD ARTIST – MELLA

Owner of Lines & Dots
Body modification artist since 2008

Techniques:

Earlobe Reconstruction
Cutting / Scarification
RFID Implants
Dermal Anchors
Play Piercing

PAIN DURING CUTTING

Scarification is one of the most intense experiences in body modification. Every person has an individual pain perception, so everyone experiences pain differently.

You should not consume any drugs, medication, or alcohol within 24 hours before or after the cutting, as their effects may make the pain feel more intense. In general, the pain is easier to tolerate if you have eaten well beforehand and are fit and well-rested.

In a hygienic yet relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, you can trust us to ease your fears so that you leave our studio proud, smiling, and with your new cutting.

CHANGES ARE COMING

SCAR TISSUE

At first, scar tissue is still permeated by many blood vessels and therefore appears red in color. As remodeling continues, the blood vessels recede while the proportion of collagen fibers increases. This increases the tear resistance of the scar, but at the same time the scar becomes lighter than the surrounding tissue because the pigment cells of the skin are absent in the scar tissue (at least initially, and in some cases permanently). Despite the many collagen fibers, a scar is still considered inferior tissue. (Excerpts from Wikipedia.org) Scar formation depends on various factors.

The resulting scar tissue varies depending on the body region. It is difficult to make an exact prediction about the final result in advance. In the beginning, most scars are still deep, but over time they become more raised until they eventually develop into the desired decorative scars. The scar can develop from raised to flat and may continue to change over time.

The treatment and aftercare significantly influence the final appearance of the scar. The final result is often only visible after 6 to 12 months.

The treatment and care of the new scarification is by far the most important factor in achieving a successful final result. Due to the large open wound, there is an increased risk of infection, which is why hygiene must be maintained throughout the entire healing phase. To achieve a clear and aesthetically pleasing scar, the wound must be deliberately irritated under hygienically flawless conditions. Depending on the type, duration, and intensity of the irritation, different scar results can be achieved. The longer and more intense the irritation, the more scar tissue is produced. Scar formation is usually accompanied by more or less intense itching.

SCARIFICATION GALLERY

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT

eat well, as this helps stabilize your physical condition
be fit and well-rested
shave the area of the body for the scarification the evening before

AFTERCARE

Hydrogen peroxide 3% (pharmacy)
Betaisodona ointment (pharmacy)
sterile compresses / gauze dressings
a new roll of cling film (for covering)
fixing tape, e.g. Leukosilk
a new toothbrush (for wound care)

24H BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

do not take any blood-thinning medication, e.g. aspirin, ASS
no drugs/alcohol
no extended sunbathing before the appointment; if you have sunburn, the cutting cannot be performed

PLEASE CANCEL YOUR APPOINTMENT, IF…

you are under ongoing medical treatment
you are taking antibiotics, cortisone, or blood thinners (e.g. Marcumar)
you have recently been vaccinated
you are pregnant

APPOINTMENTS

If you are interested in scarification, please contact us by email. We require details about the design, size, and placement. Please also send us your contact information for a callback.

We receive inquiries every day and are sometimes unable to respond immediately.

For hygiene reasons, appointments are only scheduled from October to May, as complications during healing may occur in summer.