Women in one of China’s smallest ethnic groups, the Dulong, are required to tattoo their faces to protect themselves from abduction.

Equally striking is their love for alcohol, which they often drink instead of water, making it a central part of daily life and culture.

The Dulong people, who number around 7,000, are one of China’s 56 officially recognised ethnic groups. They primarily live along a river in Gongshan county, Yunnan province, southwestern China.

With a history stretching back to the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368), the Dulong are known for their bravery and skill in battle. Their relentless efforts to protect their homeland, however, led to a significant decline in their population.

Face tattooing is a unique and painful custom among women and is typically done when girls reach the age of 12 or 13.

Using thorn needles, ash or fern juice is pricked into their facial skin, creating cyan patterns. The process, which normally takes a full day, causes intense pain, swelling and redness for several days.

The tattoos, which remain for life, are often spider, butterfly or flower designs, with variations depending on the region.