Body and Practice

Emerging Frontiers

Implants, 3D printing, body hacking and digital tools.

Start here · Essential guide

The Rise of the Body Hackers: How Body Modification is Redefining the Human Experience

Who body hackers and grinders are, why they add technology to their bodies, and the safety, legal and ethical questions that surround the movement.

5 min read

The Rise of 3D Printing in Body Modification: A New Frontier

A general look at how 3D printing is used for custom body jewelry, prosthetics and anatomical models, and why safety and materials still matter.

5 min read

The Rise of Body Modification in the Digital Age

How apps, online shopping and virtual try-ons change the way people plan, research and share tattoos, piercings and other modifications.

4 min read

The Rise of Subdermal Implants: A Look at the Future of Body Modification

A cautious look at where implants may be heading, from decorative to functional, and the regulation, safety and ethical questions that follow.

5 min read

The Role of Technology in Body Modification: Advancements and Innovations

A survey of improvements in tools, materials and methods used by licensed professionals, and what they mean for safety, comfort and results.

4 min read

The Role of Technology in Body Modification: Past, Present, and Future

A timeline of tools used to modify the body, from bone, thorn and hand-tapping methods to modern equipment, plus cautious thoughts on what may come next.

4 min read

More in body and practice

Practices and Science The science and the practices, from skin and implants to hair. Art and Expression Body art as creative work, style and collaboration with artists. Industry Evolution How body art and modification developed over time, from piercing to implants. Cybernetic Futures Technology, implants and digital versions of body modification. Cosmetic Procedures General-terms look at common cosmetic and surgical procedures and the technology behind them. Hair and Temporary Looks Hair changes and painted skin as reversible or lower-commitment ways to change appearance. Piercing History Where piercing came from, what it has meant and how it is seen today. Scarification What scarification is, its history, and the debates around pain and meaning. Tattoo Stories Tattoos as personal change, emotional experience and a working craft. Artists and Craft How tattoo and piercing artists work, train and present their craft. Pain and Extreme Practices Scarring, branding, suspension, stretching and other pain-linked practices. Industry Size and Shape How big the body modification business is and where it is heading. Business Opportunities How companies, entrepreneurs and marketers work in this field. Unusual Modifications Stretching, suspension, implants and other less common practices. Risks and Consequences The physical and practical downsides of modification, and why licensed care matters. Economics of Modification How money, markets and marketing work in the modification trade. History and Evolution How modification practices developed from ancient times to today. Future of Modification Emerging trends and technologies that may shape the field. Technology Crossovers Where technology meets body modification, from implants to future ideas. Rising Practices Suspension, hyper-modification, micro tattoos and the anatomy behind them. Skin and Scar Science How skin is built, how it heals and what scarring involves. Piercing and Ink Science What is known about healing, anatomy and risk in piercing and tattooing. World of Modification A tour of practices, technology and the business around them.