She is a malevolent figure in Japanese urban legends and folklore. She partially covers her face with a mask or other item and carries a pair of scissors. She is most often described as having long, straight, black hair, pale skin, and otherwise being considered beautiful (except for her scar). Methods that can be used to survive an encounter with Kuchisake-onna include answering her question by describing her appearance as "average", or by distracting her with money or hard candies.