By Claressa Sissing
Janet Jackson's "boobgate" has had a nipple effect on the tattoo business in Johannesburg.
Eddie Graham, owner of Master Piercer tattoo and body piercing parlour in Cyrildene, reports a 10 percent increase in nipple piercing since the (in) famous incident. Both men and women are into the fad, wanting to get their nipples pierced like Jackson's.
"I do not think the increase in nipple piercing is for those who want to flash their breasts, but rather so that people can enjoy a bit of fun," said Graham.
He said nipple piercing has become quite popular in South Africa over the past couple of years, with the more erotic and daring clients hoping to heighten the act of lovemaking.
How long Jackson will be inspiring people to get their nipples pierced is anybody's guess, but Graham is holding off on ordering a large shipment of nipple shields.
Gerald Denny, of Tattoo Style in the Eastgate Mall, said they have always had a clientèle for nipple piercing, and their figures have not changed much.
This was also the case at Superior Tattoos in Bedford Gardens. The salon's Al, who declined to give his surname, said: "Our clients do not want want their nipples pierced just because Janet Jackson's are. They usually want to get it done if they see it on a friend and it looks cool."
Dave Edwards, manager of Body Art Tattoo and Piercing Studios in KwaZulu Natal, said: "Nipple piercing is a sexy and fashionable thing and is being highlighted now more than ever. We are receiving a lot more calls from clients interested in piercing their nipples."
Nipple shields, similar to those sported by Jackson's famous right breast two weeks ago, can only be worn once the the nipple has healed after piercing. The healing process varies from days to a few weeks.