WARNING: This article contains graphic images of scarification.
Tattoos may be pretty commonplace these days, but one age-old body modification trend is still shocking people after taking off on social media.
Instead of traditional tattooing, where ink is inserted into the skin, scarification is a process where the top layers of skin are removed in the shape of a particular design to create a detailed scar. Ink can also be rubbed into the wound to create a special scar tattoo.
See the whole process below, and definitely don't try this out at home. With all tattooing procedures, the NHS recommends taking care to avoid infection by finding a reputable, licensed practitioner who uses sterile instruments, then following their aftercare advice.
First the design is cut or branded into the skin.
Then, the wound is left to heal over.
Before eventually looking like this.
The open cut can also be rubbed with ink straight after the procedure...
To create a coloured scar tattoo.