BDSM Branding

Not to be taken lightly...

For some, it's important to find ways to represent their social and emotional relationships as an inherent part of their physical form. This can be a key part in a BDSM dynamic, and for a certain kind of submissive - usually one who is highly masochistic - there's an irresistible appeal to being branded. Branding a human is much like branding an animal: a piece of sterilised metal is held in a fire till it's glowing hot, and then placed quickly onto the skin to leave a permanent scar. Many of these scars are intricate and beautiful, just like tattoos. Our one word of caution is this: don't take branding lightly, and only ever experiment with it in the company of someone who has training, experience and preferably some kind of qualification. It can be highly dangerous, and it isn't something to go into without forethought and planning.

Image: Michael Hemmingsson. Flickr Creative Commons license.

What is BDSM branding?

Burning the flesh with hot metal, making a mark on the skin is a brand. It is a practise often associated with cattle but can be practiced on humans too. It is often something slaves like to do to show their dedication to their Master/Mistress. It is painful to get one done and is similar to getting a tattoo. It is not something to be done on a whim.

Who can get a brand?

Anyone over the age of 18 can go to a tattoo parlour for body modifications including branding. It is a legal grey area so it is worth researching the laws in your town before going ahead.

Can anyone do BDSM branding?

No, you need to have a professional to do it as you are permanently making a design on your flesh. When the branding is done you have an open wound that needs properly tending too. Don’t let anyone brand you with a violet wand or a heated up coat hanger as the wound could easily become infected.

Is BDSM branding permanent?

Yes, it is. It leaves a permanent scar. So you need to be certain that you want to be branded before you have it done. Also think about what you’re going to be branded with as you can’t cover it up.

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