BY NOSIPHO MABUZA
MBABANE- Body piercing is more than just needles and jewelry, it is art, healing, and a deeply personal experience. For The Shack, a tattoo and piercing hub led by artists Zakithi Zindela (@blvck_shazi) and Thandiwe Zondo (@Thandiwe_Z), piercing has always been about more than aesthetics.
“What first drew me in was pain,” Zakithi explains. “I was going all the way through it, and piercing helped me heal by transferring the heaviness I felt inside into something tangible. Over time, I wanted to help others as well, art therapy, I guess, and a forever accessory.”
Piercing is as much about trust as it is about technique. The Shack prioritizes client comfort by using a simple yet powerful method, breathing. “We calm clients down by guiding them through the steps, from marking placement to putting on the stopper. The key is to stay calm and wuuussssaaaaa,” Zakithi shares with a laugh.
When it comes to hygiene, The Shack has a strict code: fresh gloves, a new needle, and a clean workspace. Anything less is non-negotiable.
Not all piercings are straightforward. Intimate and trendy piercings can be particularly challenging, especially when anatomy doesn’t cooperate. The Shack is also clear about the healing journey, six to nine months on average. Too often, clients stop cleaning once the swelling subsides, assuming the piercing is healed.
“Don’t stop cleaning, don’t use spirit or surgical alcohol, and don’t tug or sleep on it,” Thandiwe stresses. “Aftercare is everything.”
While many clients walk away with sparkling new jewelry, some requests are turned down. The Shack refuses piercings on intoxicated clients for safety reasons and says no to certain extreme requests. “We’ve also had to redo piercings due to rejection, which is normal for surface piercings. When that happens, we explain and suggest alternatives,” they explain.
Though piercing has gained popularity, The Shack acknowledges there’s still a stigma. “Art is a form of expression and healing,” Zakithi says. “It may be misunderstood or seen as evil, but for many, it’s a source of strength.”
For The Shack, piercing is both service and expression. “We are servicing a moment that could change someone’s mind or heart. It’s art and therapy at once.”
Their advice for newcomers is simple yet vital: “Get that piercing,” Zakithi laughs, “but do your research, ask questions, and consider how it will fit into your lifestyle before booking.”
The Shack (tattooshack_sz) is available on Facebook and Instagram, and can be reached at +268 7975 2393 (calls and WhatsApp).
(Courtesy Pic)
