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Although body modification (tattooing, piercing, and scarification) has become mainstream, it can still pose a risk to a young person's health. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued its first clinical report on the subject. Key points are as follows:
Current data no longer support the concept that body modification occurs primarily among high-risk youth. Furthermore, body modification should not be confused with nonsuicidal self-injury.
Body-piercing jewelry generally consists of hoops, rings, studs, or barbell shapes; most are made of stainless steel, gold, niobium, titanium, or alloys. Most piercing guns are not sterilized.
Scarification creates words or images in the skin through cutting, burning, or bran…