Hillsborough St Tattoo and Body Piercing

Fantastic experience: The shop was clean and had a really professional vibe. Riki and Christian were super nice and made sure I was comfortable the whole time. I had a little trouble getting my existing nose ring back in, but Riki stayed patient and got it done. The wait time was really short for a walk-in, especially in a busy area near NCSU. I’ll definitely be coming back for any future piercings.

Fantastic experience: I have come here many times for downsizing, upsizing, and piercing troubleshooting. Every piercer I have worked with has been incredibly kind and knowledgeable. They make sure to answer all your questions and give great advice. I will always return here.

Fantastic experience: I have gotten 2 piercings & love them. They are clean, friendly & easy to work with. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I was already so excited for my nose piercings, and I felt even better about in knowing I was in good hands. The piercer I had was Christian and he was really a vibe from the beginning. We talked about like 4 different things in like 45 seconds. If you're reading this, Christian we never went to Shake Shack and we went to Chipotle instead...

Fantastic experience: I went in to get my septum pierced, I was very nervous but had a great experience. Christian on their piercing staff did an amazing job of making sure my friend and I (she was also getting a septum) were comfortable and talked us both through every step of the piercing process as well as the after care necessary.

Fantastic experience: Everyone here is a gem! Got pierced by Christian and I will absolutely go back to him. Efficient, clean, and so so kind.

Fantastic experience: Updating my review since it’s been several years now: We love Rikki and Christian and will never go anywhere else! From troubleshooting or re-installing old piercings done elsewhere to new piercings done by them, me and my spouse’s experiences have only been great. Christian has redone 4 old lobe piercings for me, downsized many a piece, and pierced my septum and labret. Everything has healed beautifully! Their prices are really reasonable. We usually get their most basic titanium jewelry for an easy heal’s sake, and I believe that has usually worked out to something like $65 total per each new piercing with jewelry (I could be off by a few dollars but pretty close). They can anodize their titanium jewelry to many colors as well which is awesome, though I haven’t tried it yet! Jewelry changes are free (not including the jewelry itself) which is extra great because I have arthritis in my fingers and just can’t reliably change my jewelry for myself. I usually come on weekday afternoons and there’s never been more than a 10-15 minute wait, often I can be seen right away. No promises about weekends! There’s a nice big wait space to sit in, which is great for those of us who remember the awesome but tiny space they were originally working out of. The new space is very maneuverable, I would feel comfortable bringing my walker in here. I also want to say I’ve seen Rikki handle customers being nasty to her front of store staff and really appreciated that she would not allow that behavior and made them leave. I like knowing a business is a good place to work and that management won’t let their employees be treated disrespectfully.

Fantastic experience: I’ve had 2 piercings done here so far and I’ve been really happy with them. It’s very obvious they know what they’re doing and I will definitely be back again.

Fantastic experience: I don't often leave reviews but I love this place! Whenever someone mentions wanting a piercing i always strongly recommend going here. I got my bridge done yesterday by christian, as well as my septum a month prior (which is healing perfectly). Very friendly staff, they’ll make sure everything is even, very clean and explain the process thoroughly as well as making sure you’re comfortable. :) It can be expensive yes, but it is always worth it. i compare it to getting cheap plastic surgery, as in not worth the risk of getting an infection or botched piercing to save a little money. After having a horrendous experience getting my daith pierced somewhere else in 2020 which eventually fully rejected; I did my research, found the APP website and saw Rikki! I had come in to get my daith re-pierced back around 2021, it healed perfectly and never had any issues. I’ve been coming here ever since and will not go anywhere else! :D

Negative experience: Paid $120+ for lip piercing jewelry twice and both of them broke—did not come loose, straight up broke off. The piercer was amazing but the customer service is horrible and the jewelry quality is horrible despite being expensive. Never going back again. A waste of time and money.

Fantastic experience: Saw Rikki and I couldn’t be happier with how the piercing turned out! Highly recommend

Fantastic experience: All I say is…Rikki is simply the Best! I connected with Rikki a couple of years ago, and I referred several of my friends and coworkers to her for piercings. Everyone, including myself always has an amazing experience and leave extremely satisfied! This past weekend I came back for Rikki to reopen my third earring hole and she did just that not only that my husband came with me to get his piercing reopened as well and we are beyond grateful. My only complaint is the reception area as always I believe the young lady was very caddy and immature from the moment we got arrived the moment we left, but I’m so thankful to Rikki for who she is. And that she remains professional, no matter what someone tells her.

Fantastic experience: 5 stars. I stopped by Hillsborough Street Tattoo & Piercing as a walk-in for a quick follow-up and ended up having one of the best piercing experiences I’ve ever had. Christian was exceptional — professional, personable, and clearly takes a lot of pride in his craft. He helped me replace the backs on my helix and forward helix, assisted with my nostril jewelry, and gave me honest advice about waiting before doing fresh piercings on both ears (prioritizing my wellness over profit which I really respected). What really stood out was his attention to detail — from how clean and organized he was with his equipment to how precisely he measured for symmetry and alignment. You can tell he genuinely cares about his work and his clients. We chatted about video games and anime the whole time, and he made the experience easy, relaxed, and fun. I even decided to add a matching nostril and a labret (low-bret) midway through, and he managed to fit it all in with total professionalism. It’s rare to find someone who blends skill, hygiene, artistry, and great vibes so naturally. I’m beyond impressed — Christian will definitely be my go-to from here on out. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: Found this tattoo shop on a whim, and I’m so glad I did! Christian was super helpful and made me feel completely comfortable. I’ll definitely be coming back for all my piercing needs!

Fantastic experience: came in to have my rook done about a year ago (healing process has been fabulous) I was looking to get it done by a female and the shop owner Rikki or her other piercer melissa seemed like the girls with all the credentials. I was sitting in the wait area waiting to be called back, while I was waiting these 2 female piercers were with another client when the receptionist told them I was the next client there for a rook piercing, receptionist walks away but the 2 female piercers started expressing their strong dislike of rook piercings and having to do them. one comment that stuck out was "I cant stand doing rooks!" and continued to express their dislike of them. I started feeling anxious hoping these weren't the people I was about to entrust to stab me with a needle especially after I did SO MUCH research before going to them. I almost walked out but lucky for me Christian loves doing rooks and I felt safest in his hands, he is a rock star and the only reason I give 5 stars!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been getting tattooed by Patrick for 8 years. After my first tattoo with him, I’ve never gone to anyone else. The shop is clean and professional, and all of the staff always make me feel welcome and comfortable. I can’t wait to get back!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been to this piercing studio twice now, and both visits have shown me why this is the only place I’ll go from now on. The first time, I came in for a Tragus piercing and the experience was fantastic. The piercer walked me through the process, made sure I was comfortable, and the piercing was done quickly and professionally. Everything healed beautifully, and I left feeling really confident about choosing this shop. My second visit I came in with a problem from another shop where the piercer had used the wrong size earring. My ear was swollen and painful, and I wasn’t sure what to do. The piercer here not only took the time to carefully remove the bad but he also did it free of charge. I purchased a new earring from the shop, and he immediately placed the correct size with no issues at all. The relief I felt was instant, and the care he showed made a stressful situation so much easier. The staff here is genuinely friendly, professional, and focused on doing things the right way. If you’re thinking about getting pierced, don’t waste your time anywhere else—come here first. They’ve earned my trust, and I’ll definitely be returning for any future piercings.

Fantastic experience: Christian is so nice! I was visibly nervous for my piercing and would not shut up (I’m a nervous talker) and he didn’t seem to mind He is very good at calming people down and talking with you to make you less anxious He did my vertical labret and I’m so happy with it! It’s straight down the middle and stays that way when I smile. He also did my friend’s nostril piercing right after doing mine and it looks perfect! I will definitely be coming here for more piercings in the future : ) The rest of the staff was incredibly welcoming as well!!

Fantastic experience: Had my ear lobes pierced. Rikki Goodwin was professional and friendly. Well recommend to friends and family.

Fantastic experience: Service was great! Everyone was so nice and Christian is amazing at his job

Fantastic experience: The gentlemen piercer ( I’m so sorry was it Ethan?!) anyway was amazing and overall had a feel good vibe 10/10!

Fantastic experience: Got my septum done back in December, healed perfectly! This place is wonderful and the staff are so cool and helpful. Definitely will be coming back for a tattoo!

Fantastic experience: Excellent team! Aldo tattooed some of us, I can't thank him enough for his art and helping us out last minute! It was a wonderful experience. Rikki helped me remove some stubborn ear jewelry- it was painless and she is so kind. I am excited to come back to this shop. Please support this healing energetic space.

Fantastic experience: Hillsborough St artist are very professional. They give you the information needed to take of whatever service you're getting. I felt very confident that I was in good hands!!

Fantastic experience: I got my belly button piercing here and it was great! The guy that did the piercing was so kind and informative!

Fantastic experience: Rikki Rikki Rikki ✨RIKKI✨!! Piercing received: [CHRISTINA PIERCING] I couldn’t be any more confident with a recommendation of any sort. Let’s start with jewelry selection: beautiful case presentation selection and *high grade* options. Nothing in that case is a $5 piece of crap! This already showed me green flags from the get-go! I’m extra sensitive to certain metals and how they’re made. Once I chose my desired piece of jewelry, it was time to do some quick paperwork. Whilst filling out paperwork, my piercer (Rikki) requested to do a thorough anatomy check. Next, she gave the A-OK & began prepping her station & waiting for my jewelry completion of proper sterilization. She proceeded to (in front of me) unseal each individual necessity used during the piercing process. ****I have been to shops where those same necessities were already “prepped” and opened out on a table for the client***. I’m happy that Rikki has gained my respect and trust for opening each sealed item in front of my eyes to ensure cleanliness, proper sterilization & ensuring brand new material used. Next, she (Rikki) thoroughly talked me through the step by step process, we spoke about the proper placement (as I was clearly pierced very wrong by a previous piercer in Raleigh— Never trust an advertised $10 piercing & remember that YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!!!). She thoroughly, in detail, explained to me everything about the entire process up until healing (the do’s & do not’s) etc. I respect and appreciate everything about my entire visit with Rikki. I’m happy that she was able to fully 1000% gain my trust being that I have received very poor experiences with multiple Raleigh “professional/yearssss experienced” piercers in the past. I felt extremely welcome upon arrival, I felt very at-ease, I felt like my body was RESPECTED, my voice was HEARD, my concerns were PUT TO REST with her assured confidence etc. I don’t sit around writing up surveys and reviews but this person (Rikki) clearly 1000% deserves to be recognized for her passion and work of art. Someone that truly cares about & shows great passion for every single client. The joy in her face and how she lit up after correcting a POOR previous piercing I had really showed me the love she has for what she does. She’s not just someone with a job piercing people. She has a TRUE PASSION for perfecting what she does!! She’s more than just someone “capable of piercing”. She’s someone who's intiricate & precise with every move. Thank you Rikki. As someone who truly struggles with OCD, I couldn’t thank you more for how your precision and work ethic has made me feel walking out of your shop.placement is PERFECT! I finally feel confident, I trust you and I’ll definitely share my experience with EVERYONE on all social media platforms to reach those seeking a trusted piercing experience. Thank you Thank you Thank you. Sorry for this long review. I believe it’s very appropriate for someone similar to me to stumble upon. -Talia Castro

Fantastic experience: I came here last September in an emergency after a bad experience at another studio. The piercer didn’t account for cartilage swelling, used a short post, and when my ear swelled painfully, they blamed me for causing an infection instead of helping. Desperate, I found this place on Google, drove an hour, and saw Christian—who immediately recognized it as normal swelling and swapped in a longer post. Honestly, he saved me! I was panicking, thinking I’d need surgery because my ear was *that* swollen. Beyond fixing my piercing, Christian is the reason for my 5-star review—he’s an *amazing* human! His warmth and kindness made the whole experience incredible. A small downside: they only have paid street parking, and they don’t take appointments for ear piercings (or at least that’s what I was told). Waiting while watching my parking time run out was a bit stressful, but I’m grateful they fit me in! Also—LOVE their jewelry collection! No other studio I’ve been to has such a beautiful selection, and they even gold-dip titanium pieces in-house in case you didn't want to spend on their solid gold pieces. Love the options they provide! 1000% recommend! I'll be going there soon for future piercings.

Fantastic experience: Nips and ears. Easy in and out. The staff is pleasant and informative. The facility was clean and nicely lit. Will definitely return as I explore this aspect of my life.

Positive experience: Rikki did an outstanding job on my septum piercing. She was incredibly friendly and attentive to my needs, as I have been sensitive to piercings in the past and had worked up my anxiety wayyy too much. She walked me through the entire process, let me rest as much as I needed to afterwards, and made sure I knew how to take care of my new piercing afterwards. The piercing itself was painless and healed beautifully. The front desk lady was not as friendly, however, and the lighting in the front room was dark. The real reason for the star off, though, is the incredibly high prices. I paid over $115 here for just average titanium jewelry. Would still recommend just for the service and experience.

Fantastic experience: I always come here for piercings and to buy replacement jewelry, and I’ve always had a good experience. Staff has been very friendly and helpful every time I’ve visited and I’m always comfortable getting piercings from them. I’ve never gotten a tattoo here so I can’t speak on their tattoo services.

Fantastic experience: I came twice in 2 days to put my tragus piercing back, they were really kind and dedicated to providing you with the best advices and experience. I recommend

Fantastic experience: Christian was so kind and patient! They made us all feel very safe and hyped up our new piercings! We were in and out of there so quickly and with our purses in tact! Great prices, friendly people, professional and clean environment, gorgeous jewelry! I would highly recommend this shop and I highly recommend Christian as a piercer. We got two dermal piercings and an eyebrow piercing.

Negative experience: Dunno how yall got your tattoos, sent my request months ago, and Still waiting for a reply, after I had to reach back again, and they told me they were working on it, yara yara, they never reached back at all.

Negative experience: Walked in set on piercing my ears but the receptionist was so unfriendly and uninterested. We were asking questions about the earrings and she acted like we were inconveniencing her. We Ended up going to piercing pagoda at the mall and the specialist was so friendly and even offering recommendations. The owner should really have a conversation with the receptionist or change her.

Positive experience: My piercer Christian was great! However the check-in system is really odd and the receptionist was so unfriendly and rude we almost left. The priority is always a safe and well done piercing but the first impression wasn’t reassuring. From other reviews this seems to be a bit of a common occurrence. Limited jewelry options and very low lighting also wasn’t ideal.

Fantastic experience: Got my double helix done by Christian and he did such a great job! Very meticulous and made things easy peasy. The jewelry selection is also very cute and affordable

Fantastic experience: Rikki has done nose and body piercings on my family and me and they have all been perfect! She did my two nasal piercings, my sister’s navel and tragus, and my mom’s navel. All of our piercings have healed great and the positioning is perfect.

Fantastic experience: I had an appointment at another shop I will not name earlier in the day. I wanted my septum pierced. The girl has been piercing for 4 years and immediately told me that my septum was too deviated and there was not soft tissue on one side therefore the piercing would not work. I told her I’ve read enough to know that nearly anyone can get a septum pierced it just takes good technique. She backpedaled at this point and said she is not experienced enough. While I appreciate the honesty I do wonder at what point she is going to get the practice?? Anyway, I have read great things about Hillsborough Street Tattoo and Body Piercing. I dropped in on the way home to see if they could help me. I was having a really bad day and this thing was really important to me for reasons. They immediately welcomed me in. I waited a few minutes and Christian came out, took a quick look and said it wouldn’t be a problem to pierce my septum. I waited about 5 more min and he came out and said “Rikki actually wants to take this one.” She came out looking like a tattooed fairy. I mean stunning. And she brought me right in the room, asked me what my goals with the piercing were. Then she went right to it. It was nearly painless. And it looks SO GOOD. I’m sooo happy. So moral of the story, if someone less experienced tells you that you cannot get your septum pierced, get a second opinion. And also just got to Hillsborough Street Tattoo and Body Piercing to begin with. Rikki acted like it was easy (I’m sure my nose is more challenging than some but she was so quick). They got me in and out and didn’t make me feel like I was deformed lol. I will definitely be a faithful customer in the future.

Fantastic experience: I had the pleasure of working with Rikki on my second hole in my ears as well as nipple piercings. Rikki's calm and inviting aura was just want I needed while at the shop. Her peaceful energy and breathing tips kept me calm throughout the whole process. From, picking out & customizing jewelry--> needles poking thu --> education and aftercare --> answering any questions or concerns I had.... Rikki was top tier and my experience was fabulous. Extremely happy :)

Fantastic experience: Went in a few months ago for my third lobe piercing on both sides. They healed up wonderfully. Went back yesterday for my first tragus peircing - practically painless. The staff is so nice. The jewelry selection is top notch. I plan on returning again!

Fantastic experience: I was having a hard time getting earrings all the way through, so I thought I would need a re-pierce. I walked in to the shop and Christian was available. He is very professional, great conversationalist that made me feel at ease. After checking my earlobes, he was able to fix my issue. If you are having issues with your piercings, go see Christian, he is the best!

Fantastic experience: I worked with Aldo recently on some small tattoos and boy oh boy was it great! He was the 7th person I have received tattoos from and was the best by far. Great communication, very accommodating, super friendly, highly skilled, and a host of other positive qualities made the hour I was in the shop a positively memorable experience. Space was very clean, had great vibes, and was an overall pleasure. Highly suggest this shop and can specifically speak to Aldo being an all around awesome artist!

Fantastic experience: Visually this shop is something to see. Staff is very professional and so wonderful to work with.

Fantastic experience: Got my navel pierced, it was an amazing experience! Everyone was so kind and professional, my belly button piercing turned out amazing, and no signs of infection at all. 10/10!!

Fantastic experience: I recently found out the only metal I'm not allergic to is Titanium. So, after not being able to wear earrings for the last 15+years, I got my ears re-pierced. I found Rikki and went in as soon as I could. She put the new earrings in, as she talked me through the process. She was so kind and patient! Very happy a week out- with no irritation!

Fantastic experience: Great experience with Christian. He pierced both me and my friend, everything was very clean and he was quick and professional. Trans friendly. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I’ve had Rikki, Melissa, and Christian all give me piercings over the last couple years and I’ve had awesome experiences with every one. They’re professional, warm, and have given me great advice (e.g. anatomy, irritation troubleshooting) when I needed it!

Positive experience: While the piercer was very nice and professional, I will say the price is insane compared to any other place I’ve ever been. It’s way more, and I wouldn’t say it comes with higher quality. My bellybutton piercing is crooked. I’ve waited over a year to post this to make sure it healed fully and wasn’t a temporary issue. Not a horrible experience, but save your money and go somewhere else!

Fantastic experience: This is my current go to for any piercings I get. I’ve had my first two here and it’s been a quick and satisfying experience. The tattoo artists and piercers show off their love for art and pop culture, and it sets the atmosphere when you walk in. They uphold cleanliness standards and are well maintained. You won’t be done wrong coming here.

Negative experience: I’d like to start by saying I have been a RN for 10yrs and worked with/served different people from all different backgrounds and tattoo shops are one of the few places where I can be me freely no matter how many tattoos/piercings I have, I’m typically treated in respect to how I treat others without pre judging… my safe space so to say.. I’ve had mixed experiences at this store. While the piercers have always been super nice and professional, one of the staff members has consistently been unpleasant. Specifically, the African American woman with dreadlocks who works at the front desk there often has a negative attitude, rolling her eyes and acting rudely whenever I come in. I’m African American as well so it’s not a matter of her just having a resting B face lol It’s disappointing because the rest of the team is so great. Unfortunately, her behavior makes the overall experience less enjoyable. I have been there 4 times in the past 2yrs and it’s been the same every time and I notice she takes a different tone with other customers. I’m kind and try not to ask a bunch of questions because she rolls her eyes when I ask the first. Waited to write a review because I don’t like to complain and try to give people the benefit of the doubt like maybe she had a bad day but no. To add context, today after I selected my items and finished with the piercer, I’m standing at the counter waiting for the piercer to bring my other jewelry item from the back, credit card in my hands, waiting for her to tell me my total and reach for it or something to let me know she’s ready but no.. she stands on the other side of the counter, 3 minutes of awkward silence with her rolling her eyes looking annoyed before finally saying “I can take you over here” I kinda laughed and told her I thought she was waiting for the other lady to come back since she didn’t say anything.. however when the guy before me finished I heard her ask him if he got what he needed and I can rent you up right over here etc.. you know normal customer service behavior. . maybe im more urban appearing than the area is used to.. that’s the only thing I can think of for her energy but EVERYONE else is super nice and accommodating.. she just makes me feel like my presence is a bother to her.. if you’ve ever felt that then you know it’s kind of hard to describe..

Fantastic experience: Both Rikki and Christian are highly skilled and professional piercers! I've been pierced by both, as has my sibling multiple times, and it's always a great experience. They are patient in answering questions, and they take great care when marking and piercing. Highly recommend them both

Fantastic experience: Drove over an hour to be pierced by Rikki and she did a phenomenal job. She is great at what she does and made me feel very comfortable. I will absolutely be back

Fantastic experience: Went here for a nose piercing with 2 of my friends. We were in and out in under an hour! My piercing has healed so well. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: Rikki is amazing! Made me feel so comfortable when I got my piercing done by her way back in 2019! I contacted her recently for some concerns and she replied immediately and helped me out so much! The whole staff is really cool and the place itself is cozy, and kept nicely.

Fantastic experience: My husband and I came here for our night on the town! We both got pierced by Rikki! This was my husbands first piercing and the entire staff made him feel at ease and walked him through everything! Rikki made sure he was comfortable the entire time and went at his pace! I couldn’t have been any happier with the service we both received!!! Staff is absolutely fantastic, the quality of the jewelry is top of the line and the entire experience is so worth it!!! Not to mention the shop itself is the coolest thing I’ve ever seen!!! Thank you to Rikki and all the front desk staff for taking such great care of us! It was a wonderful Mothers day present :)

Fantastic experience: Super clean with a very nice atmosphere! My prices was very professional, while also being super friendly! I'll absolutely be back for my next piercings!

Fantastic experience: Got my nose pierced here by Christian. He did a really good job with the piercing placement, ane explaining the whole procedure/ healing process. Plus he was sweet and calm making the whole experience nice. If you're looking to get anything pierced, this is the spot.

Fantastic experience: As someone who has worked here and has had work done here, I cannot recommend this team enough. Great people to work alongside with, and to go to for services. Client comfort and care is at the top of the priority list- you're in wonderful hands if you come here no matter what type of body art you're looking for! Love y'all miss y'all see you soon <3

Fantastic experience: I've been going here since around 2017. So far, I think I've received 16 tattoos with various artists, and 14 piercings from various piercers. The shop is Hygenic, welcoming, and provides excellent customer service. As a member of The Queer community its amazing knowing I have a place where I can comfortably express some levels of control on my body. I Highly recommend this shop if you want a welcoming place, who specializes in Anime style tattoos, and knowledgeable safe piercing.

Fantastic experience: Just here to say that if you can't read opening hours or are that hurt by people ignoring you(during closed hours) you probably don't need a tattoo. This place is wonderful for piercings and tattoos. Book an appointment and you're all set. Phenomenal people and the owners are amazing to talk to. One of the best businesses downtown and I'm good for that rating(I got a mullet, buddy - bet bro who can't read shop hours didn't have one of those). Shout out to everyone there for being not only amazing tattoo artists and piercers but great friends too!

Fantastic experience: I can't recommend this place enough- I've had all 8 of my tattoos and 3 of my piercings done here. Everyone is so friendly and I always feel welcome! Patrick, Aldo and Michael are extremely talented and always deliver high quality work. They really listen to what you want and help you design the perfect piece of art. Rikki, Chris and Melissa are amazing piercers and are truly passionate about their craft. I feel so safe coming in because I know that everything is up to standard. I tell everyone I know about this place and I truly think they are the best of the best! The shop has super convenient hours and it's super easy to schedule a tattoo or walk in for a piercing!

Fantastic experience: Best shop I’ve been to thus far. It’s really hard to find tattoo artists who are truly artists and passionate about what they do. Every time I have been here, it’s always a pleasant experience. Everyone there is professional and friendly and the place is by far the most well kept of any of the prior shops I’ve dealt with.

Fantastic experience: Best Shop in the State. I've been going here for almost a decade, and the crew here have always been awesome. Rikki, Christian, Melissa, and Xander are first class and super knowledgeable. Patrick, Aldo, and Michael are all chill and do amazing work. The hours are great too. Almost ten years of appointments and I've never had trouble scheduling a tattoo or getting a piercing. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Had an issue with my daith piercing and reached out to Rikki and got it fixed! Both piercers are excellent and I have gotten so much help from both of them :)

Positive experience: I would have given a 5/5, however, the receptionist was very rude and offsetting. Our piercer, Christian, was absolutely wonderful and more than accommodating. I see several other reviews regarding rude customer service at the desk which tells me that I am not just making this up. Piercing service was amazing, however, the way we were welcomed definitely took away from the experience.

Fantastic experience: My friend and I walked in to get some piercings. The staff were super friendly and the shop was really clean! Christian was our piercer and he was fantastic! My husband loves the Pokémon care cards! Definitely going back for my next piercing!

Fantastic experience: This place is very clean and super professional. When I went I was able to be seen fairly quickly. The jewelry selection was high quality. I chose to have my barbells plated with a different color coating. They had a ton to metals to choose from that were all beautiful. You can get black, yellow gold, pale gold, rose gold, etc. They knew their jewelry is MRI safe when I asked. My piercer made me feel very comfortable and was super knowledgeable. Piercings happen in private rooms in the back. There were male and female piercers on staff. They run a tight ship and everything is very efficient.

Fantastic experience: Christian was amazing! We came in with a group of 3 and he was super professional and knowledgeable. We all had a great experience and we will definitely go back for future piercings :)

Fantastic experience: Absolutely wonderful studio. I came as a walk in to upgrade some jewelry and the piercing team was soooo helpful! The experience was fast and friendly. My four new pieces of jewelry are so high quality. I can't wait to return.

Fantastic experience: Rikki took care of my piercing and was sincere throughout the whole process. She answered my questions with delight and made the experience fun, all for one simple piercing! I highly recommend her!

Fantastic experience: Come here for all your piercings! They only take walk-ins for piercings. Great selection of jewelry, it was hard to choose because I loved them all. Very reasonably priced for the piercing itself. Christian did my piercing and was very kind and personable. He made sure I liked the placement and took his time with me. Highly recommend this place!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely loved my experience here and will definitely be going back for any other piercings in the future! I had my Medusa pierced at a local shop in Clayton that was crooked and I was too nervous to ask the piercer to see what they could do about it. I ended up taking the piercing out and did some research on other piercing studios. Through an Instagram search I found Hillsborough st tattoo & body piercing and loved how their piercing work turned out. When I went to the website I really loved the fact that you could text the piercers about any questions that you may have. I explained my story to Rikki and she was so helpful, quick with responding, and very nice. When I arrived at the shop, the front desk was really helpful with assisting me on picking out jewelry and checking in. Mellisa ended up doing my Medusa piercing and did an AMAZING job, Rikki and Mellisa both made sure that it was perfectly aligned and made me feel really comfortable during the whole process!! I normally don’t write reviews for anything, but they really fixed my piercing and made it a great experience. This place is clean, precise, and welcoming! I would recommend them to anyone

Positive experience: Love Rikki and Melissa, don't like the front receptionist. They were really disinterested which I get working sucks, though I felt like I annoyed them when all I did was tell them which piercings I was getting. They were very snappy and was irritated(or maybe was tired?) when going over jewelry options. When we were talking it seems they were only half-listening as I had to keep reiterating myself. Made me feel like I bothered them or that today was just a bad day or something. I felt uncomfortable after talking to them and paying at the register which sucked because I don't want to feel like I gave them a hard time but I've been here before and I was never treated like that.

Negative experience: When we got there we were assisted by a younger woman who had darker skin and dyed hair. She was literally the most rude and unfriendly person I have ever come into contact with for customer service. She seemed like she hated her life but like… that’s not my faultand she wasn’t even listening to what I was saying and had the biggest attitude in the world… like fix it it’s not cute. But the person who did my piercing was a Queen and she did a great job ❤️

Negative experience: Rikki is a great, very professional piercer and a kind person. However, her front desk person was incredibly rude to me and the other customers in the lobby. They were very murky about pricing and were visibly annoyed when I inquired about the prices of the jewelry. They kept telling me that "the jewelry is priced individually", but could not give me an exact number of how much the individual jewelry/fees would cost when I asked. I eventually stopped asking them questions because they got impatient and snappy. I regret not leaving then and there, because I ended up paying $200 for two lobe piercings and basic, titanium earrings. Though I enjoyed my experience with Rikki, I am not coming back because of the unreasonable/unclear pricing (I'm a college student that can't afford to shell out hundreds of dollars for ear piercings) and the poor treatment we recieved from the front desk.

Fantastic experience: They are absolutely wonderful. They are my place when it comes to piercings and tattoos. I would recommend them too anyone. They do phenomenal work and it's a great atmosphere too.

Fantastic experience: I had a fantastic experience getting pierced by Rikki. She was so professional, kind, gentle, and made me feel so comfortable! I will definitely be back for more.

Fantastic experience: Shout out to aldo the artist i choose to do my first tattoo very welcoming environment and artist and fast turn around when submitting about getting a tattoo definitely will be back for another piece soon

Positive experience: I came in for a Philtrum and I asked specifically for Rikki, since they were gonna do it originally, but I bailed out the first time. So it felt fitting to have them do it. However when I asked for them, Melissa in a condescending and upset tone said it’ll be a while because they were doing something else. Other than that interaction, Rikki was very educational, supportive, energetic and overall everything you would want from a professional piercer! ✨ The shop has amazing personality and the jewelry selection was plentiful and beautiful!

Negative experience: I am extremely upset About a month ago I had my vertical labret pierced, I was very apprehensive about the cost. With the jewelry that I chose my piercing was $129.00 with tax. I understand that your lip swells when its pierced, so didn't think anything of it until I had to change the jewelry that kept falling apart at the top. Once I changed my jewelry I realized that it was so extremely crooked. After all said and done I left the piercer a 20.00 tip. So for 1 piercing out the door, I spent 149.00. Never again... I am so upset. I wish that there was a way to show the photo of how botched up the piercing is. TO EXPENSIVE.... NOT WORTH IT.... WILL NEVER RECOMMEND OR RETURN.

Negative experience: Do not attempt to go to this establishment. Understanding prior customers have their loyalty, however the staff are rude, and immature. If you are a new customer do not expect any type of professionalism. The owner of shop does not seem to care of caliber of individuals she has working for her as very unprofessional I inquired about a tattoo over a month ago. A artist reached out requesting information never heard from shop or artist again. When I called a female receptionist named Michelle was rude as well as condensending..typical demeanor of entitled immature individual.

Fantastic experience: I would absolutely recommend this place to first timers and/or people who are scared of needles. Christian has done multiple (4 so far) piercings for me and it has always been such a pleasant experience! I am terribly scared of needles and he was so understanding every time! He walked me through aftercare and made sure I understood everything. Rikki was also super nice and professional! 100% recommend this place :)

Fantastic experience: I got my ears pierced there today. The people were very nice. Rikki did my piercing and they did a wonderful job. They talked me through the whole thing and let me talk about random stuff while it was happening. The services are wonderful. If you’re getting a piercing, I would recommend.

Positive experience: Got my navel pierced here and I love it! Rikki and Christian are super sweet and professional Update: The piercing started rejecting after like a month, RIP. I had suspected that a floating navel would suit me better & I should've listened to my gut instinct. Christian did check to see how my navel looked while I was sitting down, but I quickly realized that the bottom ball would get squashed when I would slouch or bend over to pick something up

Fantastic experience: Waits are short, all the staff are super friendly, and the piercers are incredibly professional. I've always gotten the exact placement I wanted without any concern for mistakes, infections, whatever! Wouldn't get future piercings at any other spot :)

Fantastic experience: They were great. I had a hard time finding a parking place and had to call them, and by the time I got in I was a bit stressed. They were super calm and friendly and the place was clean. I was getting a piercing so they had lots of choices. I plan to go back in the next week or two.

Fantastic experience: Had a very pleasant experience. Everyone was very perfessional and it all felt very clean and well kept. Rikki was an amazing piercer. I got my second set of lobes and my friend got a helix and belly button peircing. Pricing was clear and everything went smoothly and quickly.

Fantastic experience: Just got my nose and septum pierced by Christian, easiest piercings ever. he went over proper aftercare made sure I was comfortable and informed me on what to expect in the healing process. The place is very clean as well. As someone who has been to piercers who are not APP certified I will continue to drive over an hour to get quality work done . this is definitely where I will go for all of my future piercings. Very professional very clean I can’t say enough good things. Thank you!!

Fantastic experience: Rikki is amazing! The entire process from texting her regarding my daughter having her septum pierced, to the piercing itself, to her bubbly personality and professionalism was great. The jewelry selection was great, prices were reasonable and they allowed all members of our weird blended immediate family to be there for my daughters first non ear piercing. Rikki may be one of, if not the only, APP piercer around which is how we found her, but she has clients for life now!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely love the staff and always have a great experience. Edit: Christian gave me a wonderful septum piercing that I've wanted ever since I was like 15 and it looks so good. Thank you for helping out with my self expression goals <3

Fantastic experience: Great experience! Rikki was super patient and explained everything involved in my helix piercing. Pretty jewelry too! ETA: I also had my septum and daith pierced here! Both have healed with absolutely no problems. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: Rikki did a great job on my piercing! The staff is very friendly and well trained. They also adhere to outstanding sanitary standards for body piercings. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I get all my ear piercings (6 total) done here! Rikki is amazing and so is the rest of the piercing staff. I've never had any serious problems with my piercings and they are super helpful if I have any questions. Definitely go see them!!!

Fantastic experience: The bedside manner here is fantastic; the receptionists were clear about pricing and paperwork was quick and easy. I was able to text about pricing and ask questions before I came in. Even though we came in 10 mins after they opened, there was a group ahead of us. Our visit took about an hour and 45mins (mine for one piercing was an hour). Bear in mind they can’t give any estimates for how long the service will take so plan accordingly. My piercer Rikki was really kind, talked me through the whole process and made sure I was comfortable and involved. She asked me to come back for a follow up and recommended I wait another 6 months before changing jewelry. My roommates piercer Christian was equally kind and patient. We were both given complimentary nasal spray. My roommate did like 5 face piercings for 400 or so and my nose piercing ($80) and a jewelry replacement ($45) for my other nose piercing was $139. Definitely recommend.

Fantastic experience: So I went to get a nose piercing, super professional staff, and a great experience. Had an issue(that I caused) and Rikki was super kind and reassuring. Best experience ever!

Fantastic experience: Rikki is FANTASTIC! She walked me through each step of the process thoroughly beforehand while making sure to let me know of her every move while the piercing took place. I did extensive research on this particular piercing and she is very knowledgeable on the subject!! I am not new to piercing but I really wish I’d found her sooner! Will probably never let anyone else pierce me again. She’s THAT good.

Fantastic experience: Got my helix pierced here and loved the customer service and quality of the service. Highly recommend!! Can get a little busy since a lot of college students visit this shop since its close to campus.

Fantastic experience: Rikki pierced my bridge, she did a wonderful job; the piercing process was very smooth, she took the time to explain every move she was making throughout and was very professional. It's healing beautifully. I felt very comfortable with this shop and I will definitely be back for more.

Fantastic experience: I love this piercing/tattoo studio. I went there recently for a jewelry change for my lip. I got my eyebrow and rook (ear) done by Rikki. This place is very professional and clean.

Fantastic experience: got a conch piercing here, I'll definitely be coming back for more (already planning for a double helix)! the staff was super friendly and talked me through all of the process, and it took under 45 mins for the whole process. i would definitely recommend this place, it was a great experience overall.