Monday, May 28, 2012

Aesthetic Oddities: Dermatographism

A picture I ran across on Pinterest recently:
























Naturally, at first, this disturbed me some. Then I looked it up.


Wikipedia's definition:
Dermatographic urticaria (also known as dermographismdermatographism or "skin writing") is a skin disorder seen in 4–5% of the population and is one of the most common types of urticaria,[1] in which the skin becomes raised and inflamed when stroked, scratched, rubbed, and sometimes even slapped.[2] It is most common in young adults, ages 20-30 during times of high stress or depression.


Dermatographism is caused by the weak membrane of the cells. In results, the mast cells, whenever are faced with stress or pressure, will break and release the substance called histamine. This is somehow similar to the allergic reaction (the release of histamine). 


Anyhoo, this has been happening to me forever and I just learned there is an actual name associated with it. It's amazing what you can learn on Pinterest huh?
People have been freaking out on me for years any time I inadvertently scratch myself and it leaves a scary, but temporary red, raised welt. I never thought of actually doing it on purpose as...art?
I guess I just don't have that kind of creativity or well, time on my hands......

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