Maria José Cristerna, famously known as the “real-life vampire,” holds the Guinness World Record for the most bodily modifications—a total of 50, including implants, a split tongue, and tattoos that cover nearly her entire body, even her eyes.
Her journey began with a single tattoo at 14, inspired by a deep passion for art and shaped by a decade-long abusive marriage. “Art runs through my veins,” she said. “I express it through my body.”
Cristerna says her dramatic transformation helped her reclaim her power and now serves as a symbol of survival and self-love. “The only way to escape abuse is by loving yourself. We came to this world to be happy.”
While she’s proud of her appearance and plans to continue tattooing, she urges others—especially young people—not to rush into such permanent changes. “You must be sure. These decisions are for life.”
Still actively getting inked, Cristerna recently posted a photo of her latest tattoo, reminding the world that for her, body art isn’t a trend—it’s a lifelong expression of identity and strength.