Contrasting with the ebony skin, a scintillating smile undoubtedly tops the list of the most attractive physical assets a woman, even a man for that matter, can possess in the Senegalese culture.  Hence today’s blog will be consecrated to an aesthetic practice called “diamou” or gum tattooing in English. 

The practice of gum tattooing in Senegal is an old tradition that is mostly famous among women in certain ethnic groups. It consists of a mix of charcoal and oils that is inked in women’s gum with the help of needles, very similarly to conventional body tattoos. The “diamou” is usually done by a professional( most often a woman) that was trained to tattoo gums, while the clients friends and family surround her to ease her pain through chants and caresses.

Very similar to the American cult of the perfect smile, through teeth whitening and orthodontist interventions, the diamou reflects the importance of physical appearance in regards to the way one presents him/herself in the social sphere. A brighter smile, renders one more attractive as it catches the attention and represents self care.

Although only practiced in certain ethnic groups, gum tattooing in Senegal is not only a beauty trend for ladies to make their teeth seem whiter, but it is also a painful ritual that tests one’s tolerance to pain. In that matter, it exemplifies the heavy social expectations that is put on Senegalese women. Indeed in several western African cultures such as the Senegalese one, a woman is judged by her aptitude to handle pain and hardship as later in life she is to give birth, raise children and take care of her household and husband. A Good Diongoma is her ladyship must be able to go through painful moments with pride while maintaining perfect composure.