Looking for a trusted tattoo shop in Charleston, SC? Broken Lantern Tattoo has been part of the Charleston community since 2009, earning a reputation as one of the longest-standing and most awarded studios in the area. Located at 1931 Belgrade Ave in West Ashley, our shop consistently ranks among the top choices for custom tattoos thanks to skilled artists, a welcoming atmosphere, and high-quality work at fair prices.
Whether you’re a first-timer or adding to an existing collection, here’s everything you need to know about getting inked at Broken Lantern Tattoo.
What Makes Broken Lantern Different?
We’ve been voted Best Tattoo Shop in Charleston multiple times through local polls including Charleston’s Choice and the City Paper’s Best of Charleston. Our team specializes in a wide range of styles, including:
Japanese / Irezumi
Realism and portraits
Black & grey
Floral
Biomechanical
American traditional
Illustrative and blackwork
Artists at Broken Lantern come from diverse backgrounds and bring years of experience. The shop focuses on custom designs — bring a rough idea or reference and our artists collaborate with you to create something original that fits your body and story.
The environment is clean, professional, and relaxed. Walk-ins are welcome when schedules allow, though we recommend booking ahead for larger or custom pieces.
We’re easy to reach for both Charleston locals and visitors exploring the Lowcountry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept walk-ins? Yes. Walk-ins are welcome depending on artist availability. For bigger projects or specific artists, booking an appointment is the best way to secure your preferred time.
How do I book an appointment or consultation? Call us at (843) 637-4999, stop by the shop, or reach out through the contact form on our website. We’re happy to discuss ideas, placement, sizing, and timing.
What styles do your artists specialize in? Our team covers Japanese, realism, black & grey, floral, biomechanical, American traditional, illustrative, and blackwork. Each artist has their own strengths — we’ll help match you with the right person for your concept.
Do you do custom tattoo designs? Absolutely. Most of our work is custom. Bring photos, sketches, or just a description of what you want. Our artists refine the idea into a design tailored to you.
Are your artists experienced? Yes. Several team members have decades of experience. We’ve attracted talent from across the country and maintain a high standard of quality and professionalism.
What should I expect on my first visit? We’ll talk through your design, placement, and any adjustments needed. The studio is clean and comfortable. After the session, you’ll receive clear aftercare instructions so your tattoo heals properly.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Eat a solid meal beforehand
Stay hydrated
Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications the day before and day of
Get good rest
Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area
Do you offer cover-ups? Yes. Many clients come to us for cover-up work. Bring photos of the existing tattoo so we can evaluate the best approach.
Where exactly are you located? We’re at 1931 Belgrade Ave in the West Ashley area of Charleston, SC 29407. Plenty of parking is available nearby.
Why do so many people recommend Broken Lantern? Clients frequently mention the quality of the artwork, the friendly and patient staff, the clean environment, and the fact that artists take time to get the details right instead of rushing. Hundreds of reviews reflect a consistent 4.8-star rating across major platforms.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you want a small fine-line piece, a full sleeve, a memorial tattoo, or a bold traditional design, Broken Lantern Tattoo is here to help bring your idea to life.
Call (843) 637-4999 or visit us at 1931 Belgrade Ave in Charleston to schedule your consultation. We look forward to meeting you and creating something you’ll be proud to wear for years to come.
Are you searching for a trusted tattoo shop in Charleston, South Carolina? Look no further than Broken Lantern Tattoo Studio. Since opening in 2009, we've become one of Charleston's longest-standing and most respected tattoo parlors. Voted Best Tattoo Shop multiple times by local readers (including Charleston’s Choice and City Paper awards), we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality custom tattoos in a clean, welcoming environment.
Whether you're a first-timer or adding to your collection, our experienced team turns your ideas into lasting art.
What Makes Broken Lantern Tattoo Stand Out?
Talented, Versatile Artists: Our international team masters styles like Japanese/Irezumi, realism/portraits, black & grey, floral, bio-mechanical, American traditional, illustrative/blackwork, and more. Artists include Glenn Collins (owner and award-winning tattooist), Hailey Quesenberry, Shane Watkins, Wyatt Hughes, Lexie Zinsmaster, and more.
Custom Designs: Bring your vision — we collaborate closely to create personalized pieces that exceed expectations.
Welcoming Atmosphere: Clean, professional studio that inspires creativity for both clients and artists.
Flexible Booking: Appointments and walk-ins welcome. We accommodate a wide range of projects, from small pieces to full sleeves.
Proven Track Record: High ratings across Google, Yelp, and other platforms, with clients praising our professionalism, cleanliness, and results.
Located at 1931 Belgrade Ave, Charleston, SC 29407, we're easy to reach at (843) 637-4999. Follow us on Instagram @brokenlanterntattoo for latest work and updates.
The Tattoo Experience at Broken Lantern
From consultation to aftercare, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. Our artists listen carefully, provide honest feedback, and ensure sterile, safe procedures. Many clients travel from out of town because of our reputation for fair pricing and outstanding results.
Ready to book? Visit our contact page or stop by. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended for larger or custom work.
FAQs About Getting a Tattoo at Broken Lantern Tattoo Studio
Q: Do you accept walk-ins? A: Yes! We welcome walk-ins, though appointments are best for complex or large pieces to ensure dedicated time with your preferred artist.
Q: How do I book an appointment? A: Call us at (843) 637-4999, visit the shop, or use our contact form. We'll discuss your idea, match you with the right artist, and schedule a consultation.
Q: What styles do your artists specialize in? A: We cover a broad range including Japanese, realism, black & grey, floral, bio-mechanical, American traditional, illustrative/blackwork, and more. Check our gallery for examples.
Q: How much does a tattoo cost? A: Pricing varies by size, detail, and placement. We offer fair, competitive rates and provide quotes during consultations. Minimum charges may apply for smaller pieces.
Q: Is the shop clean and safe? A: Absolutely. We follow strict sterilization and hygiene protocols to ensure a safe environment for every client.
Q: What should I do to prepare for my tattoo? A: Eat a good meal, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and blood thinners beforehand, and get plenty of rest. We have a helpful blog post on summer tattoo prep.
Q: Do you offer aftercare advice? A: Yes. Our artists provide detailed aftercare instructions to help your new tattoo heal beautifully.
Q: Can you cover up or fix old tattoos? A: Many of our artists excel at cover-ups and touch-ups. Bring clear photos for an assessment.
Q: Are you good for first-time tattoos? A: Definitely! We specialize in making first-timers feel comfortable with patient, friendly service and great results.
Q: What are your hours? A: Hours vary — typically open afternoons into evenings, with extended hours on weekends. Call ahead for current schedule.
Ready for Your Next (or First) Tattoo?
At Broken Lantern Tattoo Studio, we don't just ink skin — we create meaningful art that tells your story. Join the many satisfied clients who keep coming back and referring friends.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation or walk in and see why we're Charleston's go-to tattoo shop. Your perfect tattoo awaits!
The absolute best thing you can do to take care of your healed tattoo is take care of your skin. It’s no secret that tattoos look better on healthy skin. While the summer is a great time to get outdoors, go swimming, visit the beach, it can also be detrimental to the longevity of your favorite work of art. One bad sunburn can zap and fade, colors and grey washes out of your tattoo. At Broken Lantern we want your tattoos to last; we are just as concerned as what your piece will look like 5 years from now as they do when you walk out our studio door. Below we comprised some helpful hints (some obvious, some not as much) to help you preserve your tattoo through the summer months.
If you can, keep it covered:
We want you to show off your tattoo as much as you do, but unfortunately your best defense against the sun is to keep it covered. This typically isn’t as much of an issue for tattoos on the torso and back, but arms and legs may be more tricky. Breathable leggings and loose shirts are good options when it’s hot outside (and it will be in South Carolina)
Wear Sunscreen:
Covering your tattoo with clothing may not always be an option. The next line of defense should be sunscreen. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you go outside, and reapply frequently. The minimum protection should be at least 15spf. Sport sunscreens tend to hold up better to sweating and water activities, however if you are thinking about going in the ocean we recommend a marine friendly sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. These products are much less toxic to reef systems and aquatic life.
Hydrate:
Drinking lots of fluids, especially water, is important for everyone during a hot summer, regardless if you have body art or not. Along with all its general health benefits, water keeps your skin clear and moisturized from the inside out. Combined with using lotion, your tattoos will look more vibrant and more importantly, you will feel healthier.
If you must tan try a sunless option:
Obviously, since protecting your skin from the sun is key to keep your tattoos looking good, tanning by the ocean or hopping in a tanning bed won’t do your skin or tattoos any good. If you want to look tan this summer, opt for a sun-free option like tinted moisturizers or spray tanning. Keep in mind these will dull the appearance of your tattoo but only temporarily.
Eat foods that help fight UV damage:
I was surprised to find out about this but it is actually a thing. Certain foods like bell peppers, tomatoes, and carrots contain vitamins and organic compounds that help rebuild damaged skin and keep it healthier overall. Also, water-heavy foods like watermelon can help keep your skin (and your body) hydrated.
It is important to note that this blog is intended for healed tattoos only. For information of how to properly heal a tattoo please refer to our aftercare blog. Take care of those tattoos and come back to see us soon!
Y’all are amazing! We are once again nominated for best tattoo shop in Charleston through the City Paper AND our very own Glenn Collins is nominated for best tattoo artist! This is a huge deal because it is completely motivated by you, our clients! We are humbled, we are flattered, and most of all we are inspired. We need your help to take it a step further. Now it is time for you to vote! It is down to five shops and five tattoo artists, with your help we can become number 1. For your continued support we want to say thank you, so we are giving you four ways to win some free tattoos!
Up for grabs is THREE $300 tattoo gift certificates. Here is how you can win, vote for us Broken Lantern Tattoo on the Charleston City Paper website you can also vote for Glenn Collins for best tattoo artist, Click here to access the voting page. Send a screenshot of one or both of your votes to BrokenLantern77@gmail.com to be entered. Another way to be entered is to like, share, AND tag two friends in the post on our facebook and instagram page. Click here for quick access to the Facebook post and Click here to access the instagram post. Every way gets you entered and takes less than 5 minutes. For a small business like us this is a huge chance for exposure, help us get there!!!!
It is always important to remember that before your new tattoo begins peeling and scabbing it is essentially an open wound and needs to be treated as such. Make sure to give your tattoo the time and attention it requires to heal properly. Charleston is a uniquely humid climate, leading to slightly different aftercare recommendations. What we suggest is a follows:
Day of Tattoo
After the tattooing process your fresh piece will be bandaged, remove the bandage after 1-3 hours or whenever you get home. Do not remove the bandage until you can properly clean the tattoo with mild antibacterial soap and warm water. Rinse it well with water, massage off the slimy coating that may have formed underneath the bandage. Gently pat dry with a clean towel. The tattoo should not be re-bandaged unless you are instructed to do otherwise by your artist. Fragrance free antibacterial soap is recommended for washing the tattooed area.
Day One and Two
For the first day or two, your tattoo may require more cleaning as the traumatized skin will still be seeping a small amount of fluid (plasma, blood, ink). Your skin needs to breathe and preventing it from doing so can result in a longer healing period and/or excess scabbing. To ensure that excess moisture is not trapped under the surface, blot and air-dry after each washing. We recommend washing the tattoo 3-5 times a day during this stage. There is no need to put lotion or aftercare cream to it at this point as it is still an open wound.
During the first two nights it is best to keep the tattoo uncovered, not under any clothing or sheets. We recommend changing your sheets to ones that you do not care about as some ink/plasma may get on them, no need to mess up the egyptian cotton or silk sheets. Pigment loss can happen if the tattooed skin becomes stuck to fabric in this early stage. If it does happen remove very gently. Do not freak out too much if this happens we do offer free touch ups within three months of getting the tattoo.
During the healing period your new tattoo should never stay submerged in water. Limit yourself to taking short showers until the tattoo has finished peeling and do not take any baths. It is also important to keep your tattoo protected from the sun and dirty environments, as it is still an open wound at this time. Do not go swimming as it will negatively affect the healing of your tattoo and potentially lead to an infection. All activities involving water submersion or sun exposure can usually be resumed in three to four weeks. The longer you protect the tattoo from sun exposure the better. If you must expose your tattoo to sunlight, be sure to use sun block of at least 30 SPF.
Following Days
The tattoo will begin to flake and scab only apply ointment/product for as long as it takes for your tattoo to peel, which is usually 3-10 days. When the peeling begins, the tattooed skin will flake like a sunburn. When the tattoo has fully entered the heavy peeling phase the area will become dry and itchy, but it is very important NOT TO PICK OR SCRATCH AT YOUR TATTOO. A high quality, fragrance-free lotion or tattoo aftercare cream can be used during this stage until the skin returns to its normal texture. Non scented lotion works fine but you can also get tattoo specific aftercare cream here. Only apply these products in very light layers, do not cake it on as it can lead to trapping bacteria and ingrown hairs. You do not have to apply anything to your tattoo at this point, these products just usually help with the itchiness. Everyone’s skin is different and heals at different rates. Proper nutrition (fresh fruits, vegetables, etc.) and plenty of sleep each night will aid in your body’s ability to heal itself. Staying hydrated during and after a tattoo session is also important. It is normal for the line work in your new tattoo to be raised for the first month following your tattoo session. In most cases the skin will go back down to its normal smoothness 1 – 2 months after.
