Soweto Ink

Soweto Ink is in the Blackchain Shopping Centre on the corner of Chris Hani Road and Patrick Street in Diepkloof Zone 6, Soweto. It is listed as a tattoo shop, but most of the recent reviews are about piercings, and they paint a consistent picture of a clean studio with patient staff who explain everything.

What reviewers liked

• Thorough explanations. Bongiwe says the team explained the hollow-needle process, checked nose anatomy to choose the best placement and explained cleaning at home. Rethabile found the piercer (possibly named Ndumiso) very informative about both the procedure and aftercare.
• Gentle, quick work. Londie was pierced alongside a sister and says it was quick and gentle. Buhle describes the area being thoroughly cleaned first and no bleeding at all.
• Cleanliness. Nearly every reviewer mentions it, with Temogo calling the premises meticulously clean.
• Tattoos too. Temogo is on a second tattoo with Soweto Ink and is very pleased with the work.

Good to know before you book

Expect to be walked through aftercare, and listen closely. Bongiwe and Londie both say the cleaning steps were explained well enough that they knew exactly what to do at home. Several reviewers came in pairs, with a sister or friend, and were pierced on the same visit. Rethabile says the piercer put them at ease about the needle, which is worth knowing if you are nervous. The reviews do not mention prices, jewellery options or waiting times, so ask about those when you call. No complaints appear in these reviews.