An embalmed body, while preserved, will still undergo changes over time, though at a much slower pace than an unpreserved body.
The Effects of Embalming
Embalming involves injecting a preserving fluid into the body, which helps to slow down decomposition. This fluid typically contains formaldehyde, which binds to proteins and prevents bacteria from breaking them down.
Changes Over Time
Here are some of the changes an embalmed body may experience over time:
- Discoloration: The skin may become more yellow or brown due to the breakdown of pigments.
- Stiffening: The body may become increasingly stiff as the embalming fluid continues to work.
- Drying: The skin can become dry and leathery, especially in areas exposed to air.
- Fading: The color of the embalming fluid may fade over time, leading to a more natural appearance.
- Shrinkage: The body may shrink slightly as fluids are lost.
- Hair Loss: Hair may become brittle and fall out.
Factors Affecting Appearance
The rate and type of changes an embalmed body undergoes depend on several factors:
- Embalming Technique: The quality and type of embalming fluid used, as well as the embalming technique, can significantly impact the long-term appearance.
- Storage Conditions: Temperature, humidity, and exposure to light can all affect the rate of decomposition.
- Cause of Death: The cause of death can also influence how the body changes over time.
Long-Term Preservation
While embalming can significantly slow down decomposition, it is not a permanent solution. Eventually, even an embalmed body will decompose, though it may take many years.
Conclusion
An embalmed body will undergo changes over time, but these changes are much slower than those in an unpreserved body. The specific changes and their rate depend on various factors, including the embalming technique, storage conditions, and cause of death.
