Brought my teenaged daughter to Barbella to get her ears pierced, and it was a great experience from start to finish. They accept walk-ins which is super convenient, and they have a good selection of earrings at different price points. Their entire staff was focused on safety and emphasized follow up and daily maintenance to minimize the chance of discomfort or infection. An easy and great experience all around, and I recommend them highly to anyone looking for some new body bling! read more

{Payment suggestions at the end of review.} I wish I could leave a higher rating... this is the only place I have been to in the last couple of years. I really don't know what other people are saying about the staff-- they are usually really cool. Maybe they are slightly off, encountering your "perfect" energy/vibe. ‍ Anyway, staff is cool. If I could give Cat herself a 5 I would. She did my first piercing there. She is calming, professional, and considerate. My issue stems from a matter of payment. I went one rainy--or if sprinkling is raining to you, it was stormy-- evening to buy the perfect nose ring. Service is great. They are helping me decide without pressuring me any which way. It's finally time to pay so we run my card. It says it's not going through in their end. Swiped again. Nope. Swiped again. Nope. Try another card. Nope. Tried that again for no good reason-- all the others all failed... I finally decided to check my bank account. Well every time the card was ran, it was charged to my bank account. Oh! In middle of this process I was given a discount that was supposed to have been given to me (there was a sale on jewelry but they originally said it wasn't on the brand I was buying [that's a fart, to the left of the opening bracket]). On their end, my card never fully processed and yet each one went through on my end. Here's the best part. I'm unemployed and that's a good chunk of money being taken from my account. Okay so I had tipped Cat via both my card transaction and separately on Venmo so she wouldn't have to share it all. Well because the payment didn't go through on their end, I still "had to pay" so, as encouraged, I paid Cat directly and she was to pay that money to the company. They were very confident that every transaction would be reversed. I didn't know any better but I was confident in their confidence. I'm going to cut this short now. I fought my bank for 6 months, opening claim after claim, and never got my money back for one of the charges of $240. Well I had paid Cat $211--the final price so obviously the proper price-- as well. $451 dollars for a piece of jewelry... oh and insertion/replacement. Even still, I went back, namely because it's where I've been going and it's comfortable. Before this happened, I really loved this place. Anyway, went back and saw Cat. Didn't have the to say to her, "hey it's me the girl with the bank-double-transaction issue." So, anyway, I wanted a horseshoe in my septum instead of this little ring I had in so I can turn it up for work. $91 for the jewelry and insertion I believe. Plus tip. Cat said before I left to be careful with the balls coming off. I was thinking, "no way, not for $100- this should 100% stay in." In the words of Charlie Murphy.. "WRONG! WRONG." I went to San Diego immediately following my septum replacement. Before the end of day two one of the balls had fallen off. Well I was at Momma's and Momma's house is carpeted so I didn't hear anything fall... By some miracle, I found it the next day-- fortunate for me I have had this piercing for 10 years so it doesn't close. Now it was a was getting that screwball into the ring without it even being in my nose... imagine the difficulty of screwing it in while it's in your nose. I get she said be mindful but that should not have fallen off within two days. My first ring/shoe that was inserted was performed by someone who thought the balls weren't necessary. Again, I didn't know. ‍ Well of course that fell out that same evening so I went to another place mostly because it was late and one of few places open. This lady had me lay down so she could insert it. Things are going well and she drops one of the balls in my nose and I ultimately swallowed it! I digress, that piece of jewelry may not have been this particular implant-grade but it didn't cause me any harm AND it stayed in my nose for 9 years. Never once did a ball come off. Until one day it did, but after 9 years... $91... $81 for jewelry that doesn't screw well and $10 when I ended up having to screw the ball on myself x3. After the third time I just went and bought some $15 thing from some random place and I've not had any issues since. It's just really very frustrating when you spend SO MUCH money here... If anyone manages to get to the end of this spew of a review, here's my suggestion: 1. Only pay with your CC if possible. 2. Never switch to a second form of payment, such as Venmo for example, because your bank will not accept a Venmo transaction as proof of payment. I wouldn't even use a second card from the same bank but that's a lot less risky than using something like Venmo. 3. Be mindful of "stormy" weather and swiping your card! read more

We wanted to go to a piercing-specialized studio, and are glad we did! My sister and I came in to get ear piercings (2nd lobes and a helix). Derek, our piercer, was super friendly and chill, and, at the same time, very methodical and careful. He ran us through each process and sterilized/changed out equipment between our piercings. Kelsey, at the front desk, was so helpful and informative -- she did her best to set us up with our jewelry choice and after care. Overall, Barbella is a very clean and professional studio, with a comfortable atmosphere that helps ease the nerves/pain. Some tips: - Although they accept walk-ins, the holidays are extra busy. Be sure to make an appointment if you're trying to get pierced over winter break. - Don't be late! There can be a bit of traffic since it's by a busy intersection. There is usually parking in the lot behind the building and on the side street. (We ran late and they were very kind and accommodating... but still, don't be like us.) - No outside jewelry is allowed. You get to pick something shiny and new from the case. They've got a good selection. Note that piercing jewelry will be different than your typical jewelry (longer posts, flat or ball backs) and are meant to be worn short term (during the healing period). I'd factor that in when you're picking something out. - You get nice instructional cards when you leave, and you can come in for follow-up appointments. It's nice to feel supported. :) read more

Pierced my daughter's ears. She was nervous and they were very sweet with her. Clean shop with nice selection of jewelry.

So, this is by far the best piercing studio I've ever been to. I struggle with major social anxiety and everyone there made me feel at ease. They all answered any questions I had and are all just down to earth. Which is major for someone like me. Shout out to Cat! They're awesome at what they do! read more

Such an awkward experience walking into this shop. The counter woman was emotionless and rude. Her answers were short and it was clear we weren't welcome. We were about to spend $200 on jewelry but ended up leaving within 5 minutes of being there. The pretentious hostility of this place is bizarre. read more

My best friend and I had an amazing experience here getting our nostrils pierced. Barbella is going above and beyond with the covid measures to keep everyone safe. Stephen was very professional and warm. The piercings were amazing, but the relaxed environment he created for us made the experience so much more enjoyable. All the anxiety I had coming in was gone by the time the needle was inserted. Highly Recommend read more

Barbella Studios - Lobby - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Amazing piercers and fabulous service. Can't say enough good things about this business.

If you are considering having a piercing or jewelry change, do yourself a favor and be very cognizant of all their hidden fees! Barbella aka "Best Studio Ever, Inc." is a complete money pit! I brought my 6 year old daughter here for her 1st piercing and they charged a sitting fee for each ear, plus charged for both front jewelry as well as push pin flatback jewelry! After my daughter picked out her jewelry I asked Lauren & Cat for an estimate or breakdown and they said, "Don't worry we will break it all down before we take your daughter back. Please sign the consent forms first." A line of about 4 people behind me built up, and they ended up taking her back without giving me an estimate. I had no idea my total would be $403! It should not cost $403 for a 6 yr old to have her ears pierced plus 1 jewelry change for myself. How is this even possible!? The ladies also told me I could bring her back once my daughter's backing started catching on her clothes, because the backing they used was long enough to make room for swelling. When I called back to see if I needed to make an appointment... they said "no, you can just walk in." I said, "great and that is included in the original cost of the $403 bill correct?" Of course she says, "no, we charge again for a sitting fee for each ear plus a new backing for each ear!" Wow I wish I would have been quoted all this before I was completely taken advantage of! The cherry on top, I kindly tipped 20% for the piercer, Cat but then they also gave a portion of her tip to Lauren who rang us up. Again, this was not discussed with me, this was just done. This studio is a complete rip off! Avoid it at all costs! They have a routine of not providing quotes and then throwing a 1/2k bill at you and expect you to cough it up without question! Go to a studio you have been referred to by a friend that will not take advantage of you! read more

Barbella Studios - Receipt - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

First of all, I called before hand around 12pm & asked the woman on the phone what the price would be for 3 ear piercings and she told me for the service itself it's $90. I go there at 2:30pm to get the piercings and the lady with the ugly green hair told me and my friends that they are on lunch & to come back at 3pm. Ok, we come back at 4:30pm, the same lady with the ugly green hair NOW said that it would be $200 for 3 piercings! I tell her that I had called earlier and the woman told me it was $90 on the phone, she starts to argue with me & makes me feel like I'm crazy as if I pulled the pricing as out of my ass from the phone call earlier. I ask her if she has been working all day & if I spoke to her earlier & she said yes. I tell her I'm not going to do the piercings as it was too much & im upset that I was lied to. I leave & im so upset because it WAS A WASTE OF MY TIME so I go back & just tell her to be more honest with privings over the phone becuz she out here wasting ppls time! She starts arguing again & asks at what time did I call, I tell her 12. She then says "I got here at 1 so you spoke to someone else that left. Then I ask her if she's lying again becuz she said it was her that's been here all day Anyways....she was soooo rude! DO NOT COME HERE!!!!!!! read more

I am so happy with my experience here! I got my cartilage pierced elsewhere but had an issue with the earring falling out. The receptionist was super helpful in assisting me with how to switch out the jewelery piece and ensure that there would be no further issues. The piercer was friendly and walked me through the change and assured me that it was healing well! The only thing is that it was pretty pricy but the quality is worth it and the experience made me feel so much better! read more

Barbella Studios - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I'm 9, and Cat pierced my ears. She was so so, patient with me. And my mom and I both don't know how to thank her for everything! She was not only patient but she was also very kind and gentle with me, and also all of the staff were very supportive and helpful and nice.thank you!! read more

Everyone here is kind, caring, and thorough. They have a great selection of earrings to choose from. I was extremely freighted and at one point I wanted to puke, I was so nervous. However, everyone was understanding. This establishment is also very clean!! They sanitize everything from beginning to end. They even explain after care, more than once. I would definitely return. Worth every penny I spent this visit. read more

Barbella Studios - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

AMAZING!! I've brought my mom and brother as well. Derek did all our piercings!He's AWESOME!!!!! He was so knowledgeable about everything and answered all of our questions. We've gotten, I believe 10 piercings done by him in the last 2 months. Everything was extremely sanitary and throughly explained. They have a great selection of jewelry. Remember to book online and bring a mask! When I tell you, I love this place, I actually mean it. Don't hesitate or wait on this place. All of the staff is so welcoming and kind. Thank you so much for making my experience one of a kind :) The picture I added wasn't the clearest (I apologize!!) But those were the two i received during my last visit. Almost painless and super quick :) If I have a picture of my family's, I'll definitely add. read more

Excellent customer service. The girl at the front answered all our questions and was extremely helpful and super sweet! Derek did my daughters piercing and he was amazing! He made it super easy and did an amazing job! She is very happy with her piercings. Everyone was so nice, excellent customer service, would highly recommend!!! read more

Knowledgeable, friendly, helpful staff who genuinely seem to enjoy working here. Cat K did my nipple piercings and was superb. Not only was it a pleasant interpersonal experience, but the quality of their work was top notch - ideal all around. Both piercings look outstanding. I experienced minimal recovery pain and have majorly increased in nipple sensitivity (woohoo!). It's been a year and a half since I had them done and I'm going back to get 14k gold barbells soon! Highly recommended. read more

Stephen is so incredibly competent at his job. He's done multiple piercings for me and my friends. I would recommend him to ANYONE- but most specifically younger people who may be intimidated by a scary/tattoo/piercing/tough guy type shop. Barbella is NOT that. Barbella certainly has an "edge", but they are accepting and welcoming to everyone- from the first timer teenager who came with their mom to the tatted up guy on his 18th tongue ring. Stephen walks your through every step, is honest about the pain level, comforting, and talented. I can't say enough about his demeanor while piercing someone. My most recent visit was to remove two dermal anchors on my wrist. The same dermal anchors he installed 10 years prior! These take quite a forceful yank to remove.. he approached with a confidence you could only obtain from 20 years of experience. He got each piercing out with one swift blow and very minimal pain. Honestly, the removal was about 10% of the pain getting them. My days of piercings are behind me, but I will always be a fan of Barbella and the great work they do, HIGHLY recommended! read more

I love how they adapted to manage the shop during covid. Making an appointment is super easy and done online. The shop is extremely clean and everyone is friendly. I came to get a ear piercing corrected (misaligned at another shop) and it was done perfectly and quickly. Steven was also very knowledge on general peircing/skin They also have a great jewelry selection. read more

We were visiting the the park across the street with my girls when my girlfriend and I decided to stop in real quick to see about nose rings. I was hesitant because about a year ago I called in regards to a nose piercing and got terribly rude customer service, so I never ended up going. As soon as we walked in, we were met with a terrible attitude. When we made a joke about tattoos, the girl just said "oh well, we don't do tattoos". Obviously it was a joke, my girls are 6 and 10. Everything was completely overpriced, and the environment just felt hostile. We ended up walking out literally a minute later. I can't see why anybody would want to spend their money here. read more

I came to get the industrial piercing. Unfortunately, the anatomy of my ears does not allow it. Cat walked me through other options and did such an amazing job explaining the options to me. I have always wanted a dermal piercing, I can't do my face right now so I opted for my chest. We had to work around a necklace I always wear and never take off. Cat is highly experienced and I could tell has a lot of knowledge. They did such an incredible job, the piercing was placed correctly right in the center exactly how I wanted it. It was fairly inexpensive, the place is clean, all of the tools they use are new. I'm so happy I found this place! I can't wait to come back for my next piercing! read more

Barbella Studios - Dermal piercing by Cat Keding - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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My rook piercing fell out after having the same jewelery in it for a couple years. Nonetheless, it was completely healed. I had got it pierced originally somewhere else. I came here in order to find new jewlery. I came right at their opening time. Although they had appointments, the two ladies that were there were super accomodating to me. Both of them were super nice. They were patient with me as I picked out new jewelery (I'm super indecisive!!) i was able to go in before their appointments arrived. They have a great selection of jewelery. I was able to get exactly what I wanted at fair prices. I'm glad I found my new spot for jewlery/piercings. read more

I brought my friend here because I had told her how amazing it was. She was looking for some new jewelry, and I was in the mood for a new piercing. Unfortunately, the person at the front was quite unfriendly, and it felt like they were annoyed by our questions, which was really off-putting. I had previously been pierced by Derek, who was so kind, which is why I returned. However, after feeling unwelcome, I decided to leave because the staff member with short curly hair was particularly rude. There used to be a lovely girl at the front who was always happy to answer our questions about jewelry and provide guidance. Instead, we ended up going to another piercing place down the street, where the girl was so warm and took the time to help us choose the right jewelry for my friend's ear. I really hope things improve here; the attitude was disheartening and has changed my overall perception of this place. read more

This studio is the best! The whole team is knowledgeable and have shining personalities! I had the pleasure of meeting Stephen, who placed my new piercing and also fixed my partially pulled out dermal. He works magic and is a genius at piercing placement. Thank you to the whole team for making my experience so fantastic from start to finish! read more

Barbella Studios - New Rook piercing! - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Very friendly and attentive staff! They also hide a wide variety of jewelry. I had an earring from a different shop that I had lost and they were able to match the jewelry perfectly. I would recommend this place to first timers. read more

I brought my 16 year old here today (4/3/22) to get her naval pierced. Making an appointment is super quick and easy as is filling out the waivers. All done on my phone in just a few minutes. I was very impressed with Cat who did her piercing. Bringing her to a reputable place was my top priority. When I had mine pierced 20 years ago there was definitely no checking to make sure that the piercing would look good or sit right in my body, etc. Right off the bat they made sure the piercing will look appropriate on your specific body shape. Thankfully, her naval was worthy of the piercing. Cat explained everything she was doing very well. The actual piercing seemed to be very swift and painless (she didn't even flinch). Again, explaining everything step before doing it. Aftercare was talked about thoroughly with some extra tips on how to care for it for optimal healing. I was able to purchase the soap and saline in the shop for not very much (no more than buying it at target). I also really like that they encourage an appointment in 4 weeks to make sure it's healing properly. Even though I myself have piercings and tattoos I am not a professional so I like the extra step to make sure it's all healing nicely. The entire appointment took around 20 minutes from start to finish. I appreciate everything is talked about and done very thoroughly it's also very quick. I would definitely come back here for future piercings. read more

Barbella Studios - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Everyone was very friendly and helpful. I had a pair of earrings that I haven't been able to get out. They did it in just a few minutes, and I was so happy to get them out. Their selection of piercing jewelry was amazing. I will definitely go there again! read more

Barbella Studios - Me, myself and I. - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Got my Nostril pierced! Wanted a Ring but they said I had to wait 5 months after the piercing to change it to a Ring. I picked out a little Tear Drop with stones. Once I got home I realized it was just too big, so I called them and they exchanged it for a smaller one the next day. I'm very happy! I will go back for my Ring. I couldn't get a refund on the tear drop since I already left, but it's fine. They put it in my ear. It's really cute. They gave me a discount on the smaller stud. Masks are Mandatory and you must make an appointment. Extremely clean and all the staff was very professional and nice read more

I went to the studio to get a philtrum piercing and did not leave disappointed. The staff here is so friendly and the atmosphere is very comfortable and inviting. The piercer took the time to explain everything they would be doing and made sure to let me know what to expect. The studio is very clean and well maintained. Definitely will be coming back. I can't recommend this place enough. With the jewelry and the cost of the piercing, it came to a little over $100. Definitely worth the cost to get quality jewelry and for the experience provided. 10/10! read more

STELLAR experience at Barbella! My mom, sister, and I were all looking to get pierced so we stopped by on a Saturday afternoon. We had a little bit of a wait, but it flew by after we picked our jewelry with Leesh (who was wonderful!). Derek did all of our piercings, we really enjoyed chatting with him. Mom was a little nervous but he put her at ease and made everyone's experience enjoyable. We will definitely be back to add more in the future! read more

I've gotten a few piercings done here and although I had to take my last piercing out, it was due to user error. Staff is always super friendly and accommodating. I am someone that has fairly fast and severe reactions to things like piercings and the staff have always been super helpful and accommodating, never making me feel ashamed or guilty for an involuntary response. All (except one due to my own negligence) of my piercings have healed up well; lobes and labret lip piercing. Definitely can't recommend this place enough, whenever I want a new piercing this is my go to place! read more

First piercing, great experience. Staff are friendly and offer education in best care practices. Sadly there are a few negative reviews based on masking polices and sterile environment. All materials were sterile for my piercings so no complaint here. Not to mention, businesses who support their staff in protecting from covid as best as they can, deserve 5 stars - would recommend. read more

I've wanted my nose pierced FOREVER!!! Finally did it and I love it. They are all great, Derek did my piercing and he was so patient and kind. If I could give them 10 stars I would read more

Barbella Studios - Nose piercing! - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I came across barbella on yelp and took a chance with all the good reviews. I was super nervous as the last time I got my ears pierced I was a baby and I don't remember the sensation. I decided to add a second piercing to my ear lobe and one on my helix. Stephen was very informative of what I should expect and thoroughly went over the after care. He started with the helix and had me take a deep breath in and as I exhaled he pierced. He made it so easy I had little to no pain. read more

Barbella Studios - Helix & second earlobe piercing - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Got my Nostril piercing today for my birthday. Mask are required. Appointments are highly required. Very clean shop. Cat was wonder talked with me for a bit. Was super informative about everything from the cleaning to the pain to the maintenance. I'm glad I went with this shop. We'll definitely be back in a few months for a hoop. Definitely recommend this shop. read more

Barbella Studios - Outside - Piercing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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If you're looking for a place for little ones, I highly recommend Cat. She was absolutely amazing with my six year old. She carefully explained everything and provided just the right assurance. She truly made my daughter's first ear piercing experience amazing. Cat was so good with my daughter that I had to ask her why she was so good with kids. She told me use to be a nanny and it clearly showed. Cat also carefully explained how to clean the area as well. The rest of the staff was also great. They were super friendly. I had to wait longer than usual and they were super apologetic. Cat is the only one who will do piercings for younger kids so make sure you call ahead and ask for her hours. read more

Exactly two years ago, I came to get a hoop put in. I even have a picture of me at the shop and my year old stud piercing is perfectly fine. The first few months were rough but everything online says it takes 6-12 months to fully heal, cool. Obviously the pandemic happens so July 2020 rolls around and there's still a huge bump but there's nothing I can do about. I contact my doctor and dermatologist because I graduate from university spring 21 and facial piercings are bad for my career. I get a lot of ointments, I get antibiotics and all types of random things that SHOULD help, but don't. Finally July 2021 is here and I am finally able to be seen by a piercer. I say "I know it may be infected but I'm wondering if you can take it out and add a retainer so I can clear up the infection. They look at it and go.. "It's not infected, it's an allergic reaction." They take it out EASILY. It bends like plastic. Because I've had a low grade, shitty metal in my face for two years. Mind you, I'm allergic to fake metals. I'll give Barbella the benefit of the doubt, maybe they mentioned it'd be fake metal and I missed it. Then again, maybe they didn't say that. read more

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I love this place so dang much. I will never go anywhere else for any type of piercing or professional jewelry needs. I ventured in on a Friday and there were a few people waiting but in total my wait did not feel very long, except the nerves were running so that didn't help. The staff here is amazing! Tanner at the front desk was helpful and efficient and did a good job of answering questions and explaining things. Stephen makes you feel so comfortable and his apprentice, did not catch the name, was also great. I still obviously had the nerves because well it is a thing that happens but it was a great experience. The best staff, super clean, high quality and for the first time ever in all of the piercings I have ever had they asked that I come back in a month to check on it. That right there blew my mind and I love that level of service. The best gosh darn place out there! read more

Walked over here yesterday and saw a decent amount of people waiting, figured there would be a decent wait and the woman at the counter did the math then and there, and I don't think it was even as long as quoted. We got the jewelry chosen, everything quoted and then Derek was ready. He talked me through it, started cleaning, did the really fun sticking fingers in my nose (septum piercing, kind of a requirement) and away we went. I've heard this piercing is like a 1/10 and they weren't kidding. Even swapping to the jewelry wasn't that bad. Had a great conversation through all of this about tattoos, video games, life, all in the span of 10 minutes. Will be back when I'm in the area! Definitely an amazingly accommodating place and super friendly employees. read more

Did a walk in for a piercing a few weeks ago and just wanted to say what a great experience it was from beginning to now. Healed great. Stephen was really cool and calmed me down lol. Process was quick and I was peirced before I even knew it. High quality jewelry read more

I was recommended to come here to have my daughter and my nose piercing looked at. It's been 3 months since had it done, but at a different location. My first impression was with a phone call. I spoke to Lauren who was SO patient with my story and offered the best way to get some answers. Won my trust. My second impres, again, great service from Lauren upon arriving. My third impression was with Stephen. Amazing service with him. He took the time to look at our piercing and listened to our concerns about on how it's healing. He took tome to explain our options but first educated us about the current piercing healing process with the mask wearing. We chose to hang on for another month with one of his recommendation, continue to clean with the Saline and wash with the naked soap. Hopefully this will do the trick so that we can change out the jewelry. We will be returning to have them change it. Highly recommend this piercing studio, hands down to the amazing service today. read more