South County Tattoo

This place is beautiful! I got my second lobe piercings here and had a great experience. They…read moreeducated me and walked me through the full process, from sterilizing the titanium jewelry to how to clean my piercings afterward. They also have APP certified piercers, which means they hold high standards for safety and jewelry quality. I felt very comfortable the whole time and would definitely recommend them to anyone who has been wanting to get a piercing!

I went and got my tongue and nips done by Jade and let's just say I had the best experience ever…read more This is not a one after the next type of shop. You can tell they genuinely care about their clients and take their time to make sure everything is done correctly. Very straightforward with pricing and so many jewelry choices. Anatomy check first and then time to pierce!! JADE WAS AMAZING!! I've never felt so comfortable during a piercing. Considering these are some spicy spots too she made me feel so at ease. I could tell she was super skilled in her work. Piercings were done quickly and I am in love with them!! They went over healing and made sure all my questions were answered. 1000% recommend and will be coming back to change my jewelry soon. Thank you Jade!!

My nose piercing!

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Get My Point

4.8(199 reviews)

2.4 mi

•$$$

I went here about a week ago due to having earring that was getting embedded. It was done and…read moredownsized elsewhere, but this was the closest location to my work so I rushed here after I was and got here not too far away from their closing time. Karla was able to help me right away, she got the earring out and put a longer post in without it hurting too much! She was super helpful and friendly I will be going here for any future piercings and to down size when it is time. A week later my ear is doing so much better!

I was in South Orange County for business and decided to stop in because the shop's reviews were so…read morestrong. That's unfortunately part of why this experience was especially disappointing. I was considering getting a piercing here today, but I left without getting pierced because the consultation made me feel unheard, pressured, and uncomfortable. I think it's fair to come in expecting a conversation where I could show a reference photo, explain my placement preference, hear the piercer's professional opinion, and then decide whether to move forward. Instead, while I was trying to pull up the reference image, I was repeatedly interrupted. I asked several times for a moment to finish finding the photo and explaining what I meant, but the piercer kept making remarks and insisting that she already understood. She told me the piercing wouldn't look right on me before I'd even been able to fully explain what I was asking for. To be clear, the issue wasn't that she had a professional opinion. I respect the expertise of piercers and understand that they may need to advise against a placement for anatomical, safety, or aesthetic reasons. They're the professionals, and I'm open to being guided by that expertise, of course! However, I've already had a number of piercings and have never felt as disregarded during a consultation as I did today. A piercing decision should be a collaborative conversation. The piercer should be able to share their professional assessment, while the client should be given the space to explain their priorities, ask questions, and decide whether they feel comfortable moving forward. I should feel respected the same way I show respect to professionals. And I would've welcomed a respectful explanation or alternatives. But what really upset me was being discouraged and spoken over before I was given a real opportunity to clarify what mattered to me, and as a result I did not feel respected in the slightest. We also clearly weren't on the same page, despite her repeatedly saying that she understood what I wanted because she kept focusing on the lower crystal not being visible. The thing is I already understood that and wasn't concerned about it. My priority is on the placement and being able to see the top of the vertical helix. I tried to explain that distinction, but I wasn't given enough space to do so before more assumptions were made. I've also consulted multiple other professional piercers who've said the piercing is possible, so I was hoping for an actual discussion of options rather than having my request dismissed from the start like that. She also spoke to me as if I didn't understand ear anatomy, even though I have multiple piercings and was simply trying to communicate my own preference. She referred to my ear ridge as a "speedbump" and commented that my existing helix piercing wasn't very visible because of it. That wording may have been meant as humor, but it didn't feel professional or reassuring in the context of an already tense consultation. Visibility wasn't my goal with that piercing either, since I got it with the intention of wearing a hoop there once it healed. Comments like that made me feel like assumptions were being made about my anatomy and choices without first asking what I actually wanted. Because placement was my main concern, the way the consultation was handled affected my confidence in moving forward. If I couldn't get my preferences understood before the procedure, I didn't feel comfortable trusting that they'd be understood during it. The interruptions, assumptions, and overall attitude left me increasingly overwhelmed, and I ultimately had a panic attack. I left feeling talked down to rather than treated with patience or respect. Regardless of intent, the interaction made me feel unsafe, disrespected, and unable to trust the process. And honestly I really am especially disappointed because this shop has such strong reviews, and I understand my experience may be dismissed as a one-off because of that. Still, I don't think that means it should be brushed aside. I'd strongly urge anyone who is naturally anxious, needs time to communicate clearly, or is very specific about placement to consider whether they'd feel comfortable in this kind of consultation. A client should be able to ask questions, show a reference, and explain their priorities without feeling rushed, spoken over, or made to feel difficult. At the end, I told her I didn't appreciate the attitude I was receiving and that I was no longer interested in continuing the consultation. She didn't respond, and I left. I hope the shop takes this feedback seriously, because technical skill matters in piercing, but so does listening, respectful communication, informed consent, and making clients feel safe enough to ask questions before someone performs a procedure on their body.

EDDIE THE MAN

Septum and labret piercing

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Forward helix piercing

True At Heart Tattoo

4.6(347 reviews)

0.7 mi

Very personable and professional service. Jordan goes above and beyond. I highly recommend if you…read moreare looking for ideas, recommendations for someone looking into inspiration

I'm very disappointed with how my appointment was handled…read more I scheduled a consultation before getting a tattoo cover-up. After submitting photos and discussing the project over the phone, I was quoted around $3,500. It's a big project and definitely not cheap, but I was told they could do what I wanted, so I decided to move forward. I wanted to have a proper consultation in person to discuss the design, ideas, expectations, and final pricing, so I rearranged my work schedule around their availability. The appointment was originally scheduled for the afternoon, but then it was changed to the morning. I drove to the studio in the morning, only to be told that the appointment was actually in the afternoon. So I went back to work and then came back again in the afternoon. When I arrived for the afternoon appointment, I was then told that the artist was busy and asked if I could come back in another hour. At this point, I had already driven back and forth multiple times, dealt with traffic, and rearranged my work schedule, only to still not have my consultation. A simple text or phone call saying, "Can you come later? The artist is busy," would have saved me a lot of unnecessary driving and disruption to my workday. They may do great tattoos, but I'm very frustrated with how the appointment was handled. After this experience, I'm going to look at other studios. There are plenty of options around.

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Anatomical heart tattoo with blooming flowers , first tat experience!

Vatican Studios

4.9(154 reviews)

0.1 mi

•$$$

I only go to Zero @ Vatican. Period. Ive been going to him for 5 years. I drive an hour and half to…read moresit with him. Hes incredibly talented and makes the experience smooth and easy. I can't tell you how many times Ive gotten compliments on the work hes done on my arms.

We didn't even know this is here in Lake Forest! Wonderful tattoo artists, and a piercing place…read more Excellent customer service that's friendly, in the atmosphere is just gorgeous! They have shirts and all this other stuff. There's so much personality in this store it's endless!

My cute little orange slice with orange blossoms

The studio itself is beautiful

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This is my tattoo right after it was finished by Lyjah at Vatican Studios.

Irvine Ink Tattoo

4.8(124 reviews)

1.9 mi

I just got my first tattoo at 59! Adam @hawaiianhashira was so gracious to work with me throughout…read morethe process. From our initial consultation all the way through completion, he was kind, fun, professional and only added to the excitement of my first tattoo. He truly wanted to make it a great experience. His location is calm, relaxing and has a great vibe. I'm looking forward to many more with Adam!

They do great work. I have had 4 done there already. Highly recommend. Friendly and I have not had…read moreany issues.

By Yao Yu

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White Lotus Tattoo

4.6(290 reviews)

2.4 mi

My wife wanted a second piercing in one ear. We came in and Irene explained everything clearly,…read morehelped her pick out the jewelry and did the piercing. She was friendly, nice and patient with my wife's questions. We'll be back, if she wants a third.

I came back! I've gotten a tattoo every year for my birthday and for my quarter life crisis (25th…read moreb-day) I got a "lost my mind" tattoo I am obsessed with it and it came out exactly like I wanted it. Amy was awesome and she did such a great job. I always get the pre-tattoo anxiety and she was so patient with me. It honestly didn't even hurt, I almost fell asleep. Was very fairly priced! See you guys next year~

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My secret and it's MY BODY!

Cleopatra

4.6(433 reviews)

4.7 mi•Woodbury

Very happy with the professionalism and service given by Cleo. Very clean, private room for the…read morefamily. My wife and I are very grateful we took the referral given to us by her friend. Our daughter did great! Cleo is amazing! Thank you

Cleo is amazing! The appointment slots fill up pretty quickly which tells you a lot about her…read moreservices! Each appointment is roughly about 30m, the first 15m will be her applying the numbing cream. Then you will pick out your earring and get the process started. Hypoallergenic gold earrings so you won't have to worry about allergic reactions. My daughter got her first piercing and Cleo handled it so well. My daughter was a little nervous, but Cleo made her comfortable and she enjoyed the process. Earrings came out so well and my daughter loves em! Highly recommend, she also does nose and belly piercing!

4weeks baby piercing

Cleopatra - Tarnished even after following aftercare instructions perfectly!I take it very seriously. Too expensive to be tarnished not even 2 months

Tarnished even after following aftercare instructions perfectly!I take it very seriously. Too expensive to be tarnished not even 2 months

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Ghost Wolf Tattoo

4.6(105 reviews)

1.1 mi

All I can say is Rob Ullom does amazing work and really understands how to guide you to making the…read morebest choice for your body type and is a total professional of the highest. I am very thankful to have someone who really cares about you and your ink. I'm going to refer everyone I know to Rob !! You won't go wrong with any of your tattoo wants and needs.

My artists name was Nate. My friend inspired me after she showed me what he did with her…read more My favourite one that he did on her is the orchid by far. When she had an appointment, I went with her and I thought " hey!! I want one too!!" He also did the cat one for her. My design is a raven which represents intelligence, wisdom, wit, creativity, compassion( I rescued a 2 corvid birds) yes I'm a Harry Potter fan and I'm of the ravenclaw house ( yes I know the original is an eagle) . Below is the tree of life. So it's a self esteem spell which shows all of the good qualities of myself within this lifetime. The pricing was very good

Jonny Caarvajal

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Jonny Caarvajal

Aspired Ink

3.7(68 reviews)

1.1 mi

Karissa pierced my snakebites and they are done so well. I will update on the healing process but…read moreoverall, super quick, minimal pain and very professional. I will be going back! (Keep in mind I haven't downsized my jewelry yet and it is swollen so I promise they are very even but one side is more swollen than the other)

Got to meet a childhood icon surfer, a.k.a. Mr. Pipeline - Gerry Lopez! Spent about 20 minutes,…read moretalking with him in San Clemente at Rainbow Sandals 50th Anniversary Event - outstanding & unbelievable time. Had Gerry autograph my left forearm and went to see Caleb at Aspired Ink. Transferred the signature of Gerry Lopez and tattooed on my right inside lower leg. Epic & immortal! Props go out to Trigger for making it happen as he was at a show in Texas. Talk about coordination.

Nose stud.

Navel piercing.

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Tattoo

Alyssa's Beauty Bar

5.0(46 reviews)

28.2 mi

Highly, highly recommend Alyssa's Beauty Bar! I've been researching for months on semi permanent…read moremakeup for my brows when someone referred me to Alyssa. She was raving about Alyssa and her work with nano brows, which she said is far better than microblading. Then I read all her highly rated reviews and followed her instagram for months before finally making the decision to do it. I cannot say enough good things about my experience. Alyssa is an absolute gem and amazing at what she does. She felt that I was nervous being its my first time and she immediately put my mind at ease. It never seemed like she was rushing through the appointment. She was very thorough in explaining each step in the process and answering all the questions I had. From the moment I walked in, I loved how clean and comfortable her place was. She makes you feel very relaxed by putting a wedge pillow under your legs and providing a warm blanket. She was so patient with me during the outlining in making sure I loved the shape and look. Alyssa is very skilled at her craft, she studies the shape of your brows, how it fits your face, works with you every step of the way to perfect the look, and then delivers the final result even better than you could've imagined. I am so pleased with how they came out I couldnt stop staring since they looked so natural. I've recommended all my girls to Alyssa and confident that she'll take care of them. The process was seamless and she walked me through the phases of recovery that I would go through as they heal so I knew exactly what to expect. Now makeup in the morning is a breeze and I have brows that slay all day. Thank you Alyssa xoxo

Alyssa is fantastic! I've only come here for piercings, but I was a piercing newbie when I started…read moreand she's been great for helping me learn things. The shop is clean and comfortable. She walks you through things including details on aftercare; and even provides some sterile spray after. If you have questions she's responsive. I actually brought my partner here after they had a nose piercing at another place and she helped them with it and told them more about aftercare that the other place hadn't mentioned. I've now gotten four lobes, two helix, and a nose piercing here. I only lament that I don't have other piercings I want. :)

Nose Piercing

Tragus Tiny Tat & Piercing

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Nose Piercing

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17 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Vincent S.

0

1

0

1 year ago

I fucken love this shop and my boy sick Rick (Richard Galvis) has been killing it. I started getting work from him back in 2019 and haven't stopped. lol I literally drove 80 miles two weeks before my wedding last year to have him tattoo my throat... that's how much I trust this guy. haha look at his work if you don't believe the reviews and look at the 5+ years later photos to see how it heals... I've never had a bad conversation with this guy either honestly all of the work I've gotten from him truthfully are super rad experiences. read more

Bev C.

0

1

0

4 years ago

This was my first visit. It is HUGE and immaculate. I was hoping to make an appointment, but was able to see Richard (Rick) right away. I had a difficult request to redo a tattoo I have never been happy with. The re-work was beyond my imagination. He did a fabulous job. I also requested a new tattoo that turned out so perfectly and beautiful. Rick is an amazing artist and I would highly recommend him. He's also really, really nice! Everyone I had contact with was extremely friendly. read more

Karmen C.

0

3

6

1 year ago

I always have a great experience at South County Tattoo, working with Richard! Great conversation, willing to work with the ideas I bring to him, and the tattoo always comes out better than what I'd hope for! I highly recommend looking into his work if you like fine lines and attention to detail In general, this shop has a chill vibe and all the artists are very friendly! read more

Arman N.

410

8

3

8 years ago

Walked into this shop and it's beautiful! As soon as I entered I was greeted by the really friendly staff and was able to choose my tattoo from the endless amazing designs they had. I had such an awesome experience here. 10/10 would recommend all of my friends and family to go here!! Beautiful, brand new, friendly staff. And in our own south Orange County! read more

Olivia G. M.

0

2

0

2 years ago

I just turned 18 and got my first tattoo -it is small fine line on my ribs. I love it. Rizzo was a super nice, respectful guy and made me feel super comfortable! It was super quick and looks great so far -still healing but doesn't hurt at all! Couldn't have had a better experience or better person to do my first tattoo! read more

Marie G.

0

1

3 months ago

Getting tattooed by Chad has been an amazing experience. He's worked on both of my calves and I am extremely happy with the results. He has been super easy to talk to about planning the designs and he's very attentive during each session. I definitely plan on going back for future pieces. read more

Cory C.

0

1

8 years ago

So I went to check this shop out because it's brand new and I was stunned on how beautiful the shop was inside the staff was super friendly and I ended up getting a small traditional devil head from Bruce Chung it turned out better than any tattoo I have. read more

Peyvand S.

0

1

2 years ago

Gizmo at South County Tattoo does exceptional work. He is unbelievably talented has decades of experience, is clean and professional and his pricing is on point. Gizmo took time to go over future project that I'll be doing with him. Highly recommended. read more

Liberty H.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Rizzo was super helpful and did my tattoo within like 10/15 min. He was super friendly and answered all my questions. The price was reasonable as well. It was a clean environment and well organized! I would definitely get a second tattoo from here! read more

Sabrina S.

0

7

1

4 years ago

I came here for a belly button piercing. Piercer was nice and knowledgeable, but sadly the piercing is crooked and doesn't face straight on :( read more

Kaitlin B.

242

79

29

9 months ago

Great pricing, clean facility, great owner (love you buddy), good artists. Orange County ORIGINAL. Looking forward to the future. OCMF.

Travis T.

0

2

0

7 years ago

This place is the best, cool people that do badass work! Tyler is the man, and can do anything you imagine. Best shop in OC!

Brian S.

0

7

1

4 years ago

Sweet shop, great artists and good prices, love my tattoo I'll be coming here from now on for all my work, thanks again!

Marcelo S.

0

2

0

2 years ago

Nick Rizzo did an amazing job on my tattoo today. I got my first tattoo and better than imagined

Drew B.

0

1

0

2 years ago

got my first tattoo by rizzo ! definitely coming back after the amazing experience!!!

Bill S.

0

5

1

8 years ago

Chacha did a awesome job on my tattoo. Thank you

Alec S.

52

3

5

6 years ago

Horrible tattoos and trash owners

South County Tattoo - tattoo - Updated October 2026

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Jordan did a great job on the artwork and ink! He made the whole experience enjoyable! Definitely…read morewill be returning! Thanks

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