Body branding, also known as scarification, is a form of body modification that involves deliberately burning or branding the skin to create a permanent scar with a specific design. This practice has a rich history in various cultures for ritualistic, religious, and aesthetic reasons. In contemporary times, body branding is often seen as an alternative or complement to tattooing in body art culture.

The process typically involves using a heated metal object or a cautery pen to burn the skin, creating a wound that, when healed, leaves a raised scar in the desired design. The pain and risk of infection associated with this procedure are significant, and it requires careful aftercare to ensure proper healing and to minimize complications.

Body branding raises various ethical and health concerns and is not as widely accepted or regulated as tattooing. People interested in this form of body modification should thoroughly research the process, potential risks, and seek skilled professionals to perform the procedure. It's a deeply personal choice, often symbolizing a meaningful or significant aspect of the individual's life or identity.