The Dangers of Freeze Branding: A Modern Body Modification Trend
By Adam Taylor
If you’re a fan of the popular TV show Yellowstone, you might be familiar with the intense ritual of being branded—a tradition that symbolizes loyalty to the ranch. But in a twist of modernity, a disturbing trend is emerging: freeze branding. While this method might seem less brutal than its heated counterpart, it’s far from safe. Below, we delve into the serious risks and irreversible harm that come with this extreme body modification technique.
What is Freeze Branding?
In the original context, freeze branding was developed in 1966 by Dr. R. Keith Farrell at Washington State University. It was designed as a less painful way to identify animals. This innovative technique uses dry ice, isopropyl alcohol, or liquid nitrogen to cool a branding iron that is then pressed against the animal’s skin. This results in a less painful experience and reduced scarring compared to hot branding.
However, it’s crucial to note that cattle and horse skin is significantly thicker—up to four times that of human skin. As such, what might be manageable for livestock can be horrifyingly damaging to humans.
How Freeze Branding Works
When someone undergoes freeze branding, the extreme cold causes ice crystals to form inside the skin cells. As the water within these cells freezes, it expands and ruptures the cell membranes, leading to cell death. This process halts the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair color.
But here’s the catch: human skin’s thinness (around 2mm) makes it vastly more susceptible to severe cold exposure. Just 20 seconds of contact with liquid nitrogen can induce second, third, or even fourth-degree burns.
The Risks of Severe Burns
The aftermath of freeze branding can be devastating:
Physical Damage: Burns can penetrate deep enough to harm muscles, tendons, and bones. When these tissues heal, they can result in contractures, which permanently restrict movement. This scenario is especially risky when branding occurs near joints.
Infections and Dehydration: Serious burns damage the skin’s protective barrier, increasing the risk of infection and dehydration as the body struggles to heal.
- Loss of Melanocytes: The destruction of melanocytes not only changes skin color but also compromises the body’s natural defenses against UV exposure. Those who undergo this method may unknowingly increase their risk of developing conditions like skin cancer.
Why Freeze Branding is Illegal in Some Regions
It’s essential to recognize that stringent safety protocols govern animal branding, yet there’s a conspicuous absence of regulations for human branding. In the UK, for example, it is outright illegal to freeze brand people—a stark reminder that treating human skin as livestock can lead to dire consequences.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely
If you’re contemplating a new form of body art, consider alternatives such as tattoos or more harmless forms of body modification. These have been extensively tested and regulated to ensure safety.
Remember, your skin is not just an aesthetic canvas; it’s your body’s largest organ, crucial for protection and vital functions. Don’t compromise your health for a trend.
For more insights on anatomical safety and body modifications, follow The Conversation where experts provide informed perspectives on health and body art.
Adam Taylor is a Professor of Anatomy at Lancaster University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
