African Women Who Tattoo Their Gums Black For A More Beautiful Smile 

Different countries find different things beautiful; small feet, stretched ear lobes, extreme butt implants, etc.  To add to the list of odd beauty procedures, HuffingtonPost.com reported that some women tattoo their gums black to achieve a more beautiful smile. 

“While it may sound extreme to most, women in the country of Senegal have been doing it for years. The West African country inherited the custom from their ancestors and believe it will help women attract men. We're now learning about this unique beautification method thanks to a video that has surfaced following a young woman named Marième as she undergoes the procedure.” 

In the video, Marième seems to have no fear at first, but then unfolds from the pain of the tattoo needle on her gums that inject a black powder made of burnt oil and shea butter.  Instead of sitting for the recommended 7 layers of pigmentation, she had to stop after 4.  

"It hurts. I would never recommend this torture to anyone," she explains after the tattoo is finished. 

The woman performing the tattoo explains its benefits: 

“Less and less women are doing this, but some are still interested. Especially young women who are looking for a lover. Listen to me, tattooed gums and a silver tooth: that's what's attractive. A woman should not have red gums. Her gums need to be dark. A nice smile attracts men. A nice smile with white teeth.” 

Not only is this supposed to make the women more beautiful, but HuffingtonPost.com stated that it also boots dental health, eliminates bad breath and would only cost you about $1.50.  Convinced yet?

Watch the video here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/03/african-women-tattoo-gums-black-video_n_2402208.html