I decided that I absolutely needed my ear piercings redone after letting them close almost 30 years ago. I happened to meet a heavily tattooed and pierced young woman who recommended Buddha Box and specifically Derek the piercer. I went to Buddha Box yesterday. Derek was so kind and gentle, and he thoroughly explained everything I will need to care for my piercing. It turned out that one hole was open, and one needed to be pierced. The piercing didn't hurt! I have chronic pain, so I'm very sensitive. I'm honestly still shocked that it only felt like a little bit of pressure. I messaged Derek on Instagram today to ask a question about aftercare. He replied right away. I'm so glad that I listened to the woman I met. Five stars. read more

I wasn't sure what to expect when I visited this place but was very impressed with what I saw. I came here with some friends who wanted to get some piercings done and one of them spoke highly of this place. Outside the building I wasn't expecting much but once we went inside, it had nice setup with a few couches you can relax. The place was well kept, organized and clean. The guy that helped my friends was great. Derek was very informative, knowledgeable and can tell he enjoys what he does. He made sure that the room my friends were in were thoroughly clean and explained what to expect when getting the piercings. He was also teaching someone too while talking to my friends. I think he did a great job making sure my friends were good and comfortable throughout. I didnt get anything but looking around if I do consider getting a piercing in the future, I would consider coming here for sure. They also do tattoos too and some images I saw seem cool so maybe something to think about too. read more

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Don't let the outside exterior fool you. This place is amazingly awesome. My friends and I stopped in because they wanted to get piercings. We were immediately greeted by staff. The place itself is nice and clean. We had the pleasure of meeting Derek for our service. He was thorough, honest, and friendly. Derek has been doing his expert work for 17 years. It was nice to hear someone passionate about what they do. I wanted to get a tattoo but unfortunately they were all booked up for the day. Next time I hope. Definitely don't pass this place up. I was extremely pleased with the service we received as well as how clean they kept everything. A must try if you are in need of this kind of service. read more

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I've been the Buddha Box a handful of times. I recently took a friend to get both of our serums pierced. The piercers are incredibly knowledgeable, and the customer service is the best I've had in San Antonio. Derek and Jess are amazing conversationalists and have a talent for keeping their clients calm and comfortable through the whole process. Can't recommend them enough! read more

My experience here was really good, the staff is professional and welcoming. Derek was who did my ear piercings. I totally recommend them. read more

Buddha Box Studios - Ear piercings - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I saw Elmo and I had a great experience. The tattoo is exactly what I wanted and healing nicely. Elmo took great care to ensure the tattoo and the layout was to my satisfaction. He was kind and great for conversation. Highly recommend, I'm very happy with the work read more

I went in last minute to get my second lobe pierced and Derek was able to accommodate me right away. Definitely recommend coming here for any piercing needs. + they have a good selection of jewelry to choose from!! read more

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Friday night, 9:00PM when I walked in, and they got me out in and out! Derek was the one that did my doubles and he was so nice, accurate and knowledgeable in all things related to piercings and it's healing process. Got titanium studs for the piercing and cost came out to $100! My friend was able to get one of her old pierced holes looked as well, and he did it on the house! So nice, and even advised her on how to heal the scar tissue area or advised on what new spot would be ideal for a new piercing. Overall, I see why everyone comes here for their piercings. :) read more

Buddha Box Studios - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Derek is amazing , he's done my septum & nose piercing. Makes sure you have the right anatomy , perfect placement , very nice and calm presence to be around , made it quick & easy & high quality jewelry is the cherry on top! The place overall all is just a vibe , everyone has great customer service , very clean & friendly! read more

I got a tattoo with Elmo and it was a great experience! It was smaller "girly" tattoo that was more fine line and the work matches the picture perfectly! He was super kind and helpful and made it a quick and easy process. I am about a week out from getting and it it's healing great! Would definitely recommend going with Elmo!!! read more

Got my first tatoo by artist named Elmo at Buddha box. Amazing first experience calmed my nerves down immensely and made everything feel natural. 100% will be going back read more

Place is extremely clean and my ear piercings turned out great and even on both sides!

This place is tucked off in the corner of a strip mall and is immaculately clean. They have beautiful jewelry on display and tons of open bays for work. I came in to get my nose jewelry changed. I got it done on the East Coast and was told to wait six months for a ring change. The young lady working the front was a bit condescending from the beginning of our interaction. I told her what I needed, and she asked, "Umm? Do you have an appointment?" I told her I did not, and then she asked when it was done and said I should wait nine months to change from straight jewelry to a ring. Now I'm no piercer, and I'm from the East Coast, so maybe there are different ideas on piercing here. ‍Additionally, I understand that people have varying levels of comfort with certain things and the various standards they practice. So I was okay with adhering to that. What I will say is I do know a thing or two about wound healing, and this is not my first rodeo with a piercing. So I wanted to understand why a bit better. She proceeded to say then: "You could get a hypertrophic scar. You know a bump? Have you ever seen a piercing with a bump?" (Ummm, yes, who hasn't?! ) I explained to her my concerns with the ring constantly displacing forward and then getting snagged on my clothing or mask at work and that I was worried that constant trauma might cause a hypertrophic scar if it continued to catch. She continued in a lecturer-like tone before stating she'd have to ask. I heard her ask her boss, "Did you hear that?" And he nonchalantly recapped our conversation before she came out and acted like I was twisting her arm to change the jewelry. I told her it was fine and proceeded to try to walk away. Then she asked to look at the piercing close-up and if it was if it was irritated. Seeing that she possibly still was not understanding my concern, I tried to show her the displacement to which I was referring and why I believed it to be irritated. "Don't touch it!!" she scolded as if I were a child. She then looked at the piercing and asked, "Um did you get this done here???" I told her that I wasn't from here and had recently relocated. She told me that the piercing was done incorrectly and was supposed to be perpendicularly pierced, but mine was pierced at an angle, and that's why it's snagging. She told me I'd probably have to remove it and start over. I told her to thank you again and not to worry about it, and she asked me if I wanted their card. "No, thank you," I replied. Look, I'm sure this is a great place to be pierced, especially for first-timers who may need more education. The cleanliness and the beauty of the displays speak volumes about their attention to detail. But good communication, customer service skills, and the ability to educate on a way that doesn't scream, "I'm a piercing snob, and you're an idiot" is key. I have no problems waiting and having it reassessed. That's why I came to the expert instead of going into the beauty supply store and changing my jewelry with some lead-laden junk. I'll wait the nine months and have it reassessed, but I'll think twice about coming back here. read more

I love this place. Clean and friendly service they have awesome artist and piercers. Amazing jewelry as well I come all the way out from Houston just to get services that's how much I love Buddha box!! The environment is awesome also! Def would recommend for any tattoo or piercing needs! read more

Superior customer service. Everyone is so friendly. Xene and Derek are extremely knowledgeable and sweet with great sense of humor. They are the only ones I will get a piercing from. read more

I've always had trouble putting earrings in, and having swelling afterwards no matter what metal. I finally realized I could ask a piercer what they thought I could do. Derek examined my piercings and said that they were a little narrow, so I was probably stretching them a little every time I tried to wear earrings, causing the irritation. So we are working on expanding my piercings a couple sizes to avoid that. I wish I had thought to talk to a piercer years ago! read more

We came in as a walking-in, everyone was so friendly as soon as we walked in, We were in the area for a concert (live locally in CA) and decided let's get some piercings. Came in with my daughter she got her nose and I got my septum. Derek was great and made you feel so comfortable with his level of knowledge and just overall amazing personality. Highly recommend. read more

Got a tat by Mars Black. Brought in my own design. Studio very clean and comfortable. Staff very friendly and helpful. Mars communicated with me well and did a fantastic job. Cost was same as discussed. While I was getting a tat my partner decided to get an ear pierced. He was accommodated and treated well. Will highly recommend Buddha Box and Mars. read more

Buddha Box Studios - Tat of Ukrainian Coat of Arms. - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Literally the most professional and cleanly piercing environment I've ever been in. The staff was lovely and so reassuring. I was so scared to get my septum pierced but Xene was so nice and answered any and all questions I nervously spewed out. They really understand their stuff, and are so passionate about it! I'll definitely be coming here again. read more

Buddha Box Studios - septum piercing - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Derek was awesome. Best experience I've had with a piercer. I came in as a walk-in wanting my daith pierced. I have been told my other piercers it couldn't be done but Derek was able to get the placement down and able to get it pierced! He was so great, professional and also calm and just great vibes overall. So happy I went with him and will be back for future piercings. read more

Buddha Box Studios - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

My go-to place for piercings now and it's definitely out of the way for me. They have a nice selection of piercing jewelry for a really good price. And if they don't have something they can order it for you ! I've never had an issue with scheduling or the lady owner at the front. Derek(piercer) does a good job at being knowledgeable without sounding condescending. He loves to talk and is very positive which I really enjoy in a piercer. Most really lack that quality. First time I went, I initially wanted to get my other nostril done as I only had the right side... when he finished marking I got up to look in the mirror to see if his mark was even with my other nostril piercing and asked if he thought this other piercing (pierced by another shop) was too low. He told me for a hoop it's perfect, but if you want to wear studs in it, too-- yes, it's a bit lower than usual. And I'm glad he said that cause that had been bothering me since I got it!!!! so he helped me decide I wanted to get pierced on both sides so I can have a higher, better placement! Second time I went with my mom to get our ears pierced and got Derek again. He was really good at chatting with us as he was setting up her piercing and mine as well. She got a helix and I got a tragus. Third time I had some issues with one of the nostril piercings he did (I was having allergies) and he helped give me a longer labret, it was painless and he didn't make me feel bad about it cause these things happen !!!! read more

Miles Larsen has been my tattoo artist since 2007! I have 15 yr old tattoos that people think are new! My colors are bright, beautiful and stand out. His lines are clean and straight. Miles can draw darn near anything and has wonderful creativity. He's a very talented, 20+ year tattoo artist. He's tattooed both of my adult daughters, most of my friends and now even my fiancé. I contacted Miles regarding a very sentimental tat on my fiancé and he responded right away. Not to mention, he's cool, laid back and funny to chat with while you sit in pain. HA The rest of the staff at Buddha Box is equally cool. Derek is always pleasant and in a good mood. The shop is always clean and sanitized. They are currently following Covid restrictions and additional safety protocols. read more

Buddha Box Studios - Fiancé tattoo - skull Skelton key - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Staff here are super friendly and helpful! Derek was wonderful to my nervous 10 year old while he pierced her ears... he took his time, walked us through the process, explained aftercare thoroughly and even taught my girl some mediation and relaxation techniques to help her through the experience. HIGHLY recommend!!! read more

Derek is so knowledgeable and takes the healing process for his clients very serious. I would recommend him as the piercer of San Antonio for sure! read more

I've been wanting to get my nose pierced for awhile, so I asked around for recommendations on where to go. A friend of mine raved about Derek at Buddha Box, saying that it's the only place/person she and her friends wholeheartedly trust for their piercings. It was easy to make my appointment, and I was able to come in the day that I called. When we (I brought my husband along for moral support) arrived, we called the number and were told to wait in the car. Derek came out to grab us when he was ready and led us inside. He asked about COVID symptoms/exposures and took my temperature with it being an under the mask piercing. He also spent some time discussing how to care for the piercing and seeing if I had any questions. Luckily, he also gave a small handout at the end with similar information since I had forgotten after the rush of actually getting the piercing. Apparently, they've been incredibly busy recently, so they have limited selection for nostril studs. I chose a simple gold ball. He went back and got everything ready while I signed a waiver. He laid me down for the piercing and calmly talked through it. He had me do some deep breaths then pierced during an out breath. It wasn't bad at all! He put the stud in, and it was all done! He even had a Kleenex ready for tears. We're moving in a month, so he told me if I'm ready to switch to a corkscrew before we leave to come in. Otherwise, he has some connections to shops where we're moving and will give us recommendations. I'm so happy I finally got my nose piercing done and had such a great experience at this shop with Derek! Now, I got to religiously care for it and avoid infection! read more

Buddha Box Studios - Fresh nose piercing! - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I had an incredible experience at Buddha Box. I was able to get a same day appointment with Xene for a double helix piercing. She was very professional and methodical in the placement of each piercing. This was my first cartilage piercing so I was a little nervous. She was great at calming me down. The facility itself was very organized and clean. Xene sterilized the jewelry in front of me and walked me through what to expect. I will definitely go back to her for any future piercings. read more

Buddha Box Studios - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

TBH I was a little weary of this place just because of location but I'm so glad I ended up there. Xene pierced my nostril and she was amazing! She was soo knowledgeable, offered up lots of dos and donts (especially since I explained that my precious nose piercing had lots of problems trying to heal). She gave me great tips on how to keep the area clean as well. I liked all the private rooms, and clean the shop was. My jewelry even went into a sanitizer before being pierced. I will never go anywhere else for any future piercing! read more

Buddha Box Studios - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Great service and was super friendly. Super clean environment and nice employees. Did not have to wait at all.

Quick and painless experience! Thanks Derek for taking me in last minute for a spontaneous cartilage and conch piercing. It came out beautiful, I'm so in love with them If you're looking to get a piercing definitely check them out!! You won't be disappointed! read more

The vibes, cleanliness, and fun of this shop is definitely top-tier piercing and tattoo location. I went to get my nose pierced by Xene Erika Sanchez (@xenethepiercer) and I would definitely be a repeat customer for her. She was calm, took cleanliness and safety very seriously, and obviously cared about her job as a piercer. She lined my nose stud perfectly and kept me cool and calm during the process. She took her time to set up and make sure it was perfect before the actual piercing and made sure I knew how to take care of it for a perfectly healed wound. I would hands down suggest this shop because they take pride their work and being clean, which is very important during these times. read more

Visiting San Antonio and had too short of a bar in an established lobe piercing, not imbedded, just swollen from the pinching. Stopped in to ask if they could remove it, as I couldn't grip it myself and I'm away from home and my tools. I let them know I was happy to pay whatever and possibly buy some replacement jewelry. Dude looked me dead in the face, said, "That must be painful, we can get you in in 6.5 hours, we're booked up until then." Piercer was standing at the counter waiting for his appointment which did not appear to be on site. Went elsewhere, they removed it in less than 10 seconds, with just gloves no tools, didn't even need to sterilize anything. The frank dismissiveness was startling to this out of town traveler with a minor issue popping in to such a highly rated parlor. read more

Great experience! The girl at the front desk was nice as well as our piercer Derek, he was so sweet and professional! Will definitely be returning for any future piercings! read more

Buddha Box Studios - Septum piercing - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Came across this company here on Yelp after going to one shop and being told they didn't have a piercer on Sundays. Went over to Buddha Box and worked with Jess on getting my nose pierced--- first piercing mind you since I was a kid getting one at Claire's. I warned her ahead of time that I was nervous. Jess was super sweet and put my mind at ease. This place is seriously CLEAN! Which is always a good sign. I think Jess had my piercing done in under 5 minutes! Didn't even hurt! I was scared for no reason! Highly recommend coming here! I'm glad to know they are there to answer any questions or concerns you have. I'm planning on going back again later this year for a few more piercings!!! Thanks Jess!!! I want to update almost 6 months later and I still cannot recommend Buddha Box enough for piercings! Erin has helped me several times when I've had questions about the healing process and Derek helped me when I removed it too soon and couldn't put the stud back in. I went in tonight and I was happy to see Erin who helped me get a silicone retainer for a medical procedure this week. Everyone needs to just come here for piercings and tattoos. You won't be disappointed! read more

Buddha Box Studios - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Made an appointment to get a piercing with a Friend of mine. I was able to set the appointment for my both of us. I got my rook piercing done by Derrek and it was a pleasant experience. He talked about aftercare, went over the paperwork, cleaned the area, and marked it. Throughout the appointment we were making small talk which helped calm my nerves. This is a very laid back and profesional establishment. I will forever come back here to continue to get my piercings and will recommend to everyone who asks where i go. Let's be real, I'll tell them about this place even if they don't ask. I ended up paying $50 for my rook, with basic a earring. Don't forget to tip!!! read more

Buddha Box Studios - Fresh rook! - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I went to this shop almost a week ago to get my nose pierced and my experience was absolutely amazing! They really take the time to educate you and are super patient with explaining after care as well as ensuring you're happy with the jewelry you pick out. As far as the piercing went, Derek was so gentle and made the process so quick and easy, and honestly as a person with an extremely low pain tolerance, I barely felt a thing. Go visit this shop! I promise you won't be disappointed. read more

I would highly recommend this place if you prefer your health/safety over prices. Yes, in comparison their prices are a tad bit higher but your are paying for infection control and knowledge. My friend and I went for some piercings and dealt with Derrick. He was very educated on piercings and direct. He informed me that my preferred choice wouldn't be ideal with my shape of ear and stated the reasonings. I appreciated his honesty for people just taking your money is how you risk infection, keloids and healing improperly. The building was clean and COVID precautions were taken. Derrick was very laid back, personable, professional and would be returning! Once again if you value quality of work and your health then Buddha Box is a must!' read more

I had the absolute best experience ever here at the Buddha Box Studios! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted kindly by the artists in the lounge. From there, Brandon, who ended up being my piercer, was extremely helpful, thorough, and knowledgeable on the nose piercing that I wanted. He went over the different options of jewelry with me, their pros and cons and price points, and we finally decided on what would be best for me for now. Besides the space being very clean and aesthetically pleasing, it has a very cool vibe. We also had the opportunity to interact with the manager, who was extremely personable, professional, and fun at the same time. We will definitely plan to come back for any other piercing or tattoo that we might want in the future! My nose piercing was quick and painless, As well as it being in the perfect location that I wanted. read more

Buddha Box Studios - My perfectly placed nose stud piercing done by Brandon! - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Derek was very helpful when I went to visit. I didn't even buy anything and he went above and beyond to make sure I found something I liked and was happy. I'll be back in a few months once they have more gold items in stock but I'd go here just based on the service that the piercer gave. read more

I am so impressed with this establishment! I read the reviews before deciding where to go to get my nose pierced. They are only accepting clients with appointments right now so I called last week and made an appointment for the following week. I told them I wanted to get my nose pierced and get two lobes re-pierced because they closed partially years ago and I've worn them wonky since. When I told her I was interested in getting my nose pierced, she informed me that because it was an under-the-mask piercing, my temperature would be taken and there'd be different precautions. She let me know to call the shop when I arrived for my appointment so Derek could come out to get me. The day of my piercing, I called when I arrived (also realized it's right next to an amazing Chinese restaurant I used to go to as a kid and totally forgot about - double win!) and was told Derek would come out to get me. I waited less than 5 minutes and was greeted by Derek who walked me in. He had better bedside manner than some doctors I've visited and was so kind!! He made the process of talking about aftercare, healing, and the actual piercing procedure calming. When we talked about me getting my nose pierced, he told me it may not be the best time because of COVID and wearing masks that bacteria will ~thrive~ in that environment under my mask and I was at more of a risk. I ultimately decided to forgo getting my nose pierced this session but I guarantee I will be back! I was very glad he talked to me about it first instead of not mentioning anything and me possibly having greater issues down the road. Very professional. I ended up getting my rook pierced instead of my nose plus my two lobe piercings. Derek changed his gloves multiple times after doing different tasks, I saw and heard the autoclave and the room was very comfortable and clean. No extra clutter or issues of cleanliness. He recommended we do the rook first since it would be a greater pressure feeling than my lobes and he was very right! He told me how to breathe and when the needle would go in and it was not bad at all! The sound was probably worse than the pressure, to me it sounded like cutting celery, a nice little crunch. My lobes didn't hurt too bad and I love them all! I was pleased they accepted card because I forgot to get cash out. I was given an aftercare pamphlet and was on my way. Highly, highly recommend this establishment! So clean and friendly! read more

Buddha Box Studios - New rook piercing, plus re-pierced second lobe! - Tattoo Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Xene is an amazing piercer! I have gone to her twice and she takes the time to explain everything to you and makes you feel comfortable! Also, the lady owner is amazing too! Overall, I've had great experiences every time and won't go to another piercing place! read more