by Glenn | Jun 15, 2023 | Uncategorized
We did it! We swept the tattoo Category! We have managed to win Charleston’s Best Tattoo Shop through Charleston City Paper and Glenn Collins won Charleston’s Best Tattoo Artist! It is amazing to have an artist on our team recognized as the best. It makes us proud of the team we have put together. We love this group of well rounded artists and what they bring to the shop day in and day out. We have been on a run with winning Best Tattoo Parlor through the Post and Courier but it is good to get acknowledgment from another source and we do not take it for granted. It is an absolute honor to receive these types of awards as the contests are completely motivated by you, the people we serve and those that get to call this incredible city home. It is truly humbling that our clients and Charleston have decided to support us in such an incredible way. Our team at Broken Lantern would like to extend our deepest thanks not just for the recognition, but also for choosing us to tattoo you! None of this is possible without you. As we have said before we will continue putting forth the effort to make this the best tattoo shop possible, and passing that experience on to you to give you the best tattoo possible. We have the opportunity to serve the best clients, in the best city and are thankful for it everyday. We would not exist without you so one again thank you! We look forward to continuing to grow and create with you. We absolutely love you! Also Congratulations to Clare for voting for us and winning a FREE half day session with Glenn.
by Glenn | Feb 15, 2023 | Uncategorized
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 a half day session with Glenn Collins ($1000 dollar value) . 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 for best tattoo artist and Click here to access the voting page for best tattoo shop. Send a screenshot of one or both of your votes to BrokenLantern77@gmail.com to be entered, every vote is an entry! Another way to be entered is to like, share, AND tag two friends in the post on our facebook and instagram page. 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!!!!
Sincerely,
Broken Lantern Tattoo Team
by Glenn | Nov 19, 2022 | Uncategorized
We have managed to win Charleston’s best tattoo Parlor Again! We are very proud of the team we have not only put together but kept together here at Broken Lantern Tattoo. We love this group of well rounded artist and what they bring to the shop day in and day out. We have been on a run with winning this award, but we do not take it for granted. It is an absolute honor to receive these types of acknowledments as the contest are completely motivated by you, the people we serve and those that get to call this incredible city home. It is truly humbling that our clients and Charleston have decided to support us in such a fantastic way. Our team at Broken Lantern would like to extend our deepest thanks not just for the recognition, but also for choosing us to tattoo you! We will continue putting forth the effort to make this the best tattoo shop possible, and passing that experience on to you to give you the best tattoo possible. We have the opportunity to serve the best clients, in the best city and are thankful for it everyday. We would not exist without you so one again thank you! We look forward to continuing to grow and create with you. We absolutely love you!
by Glenn | Sep 23, 2020 | Tattoo Shop
We are very proud of the team of artists we have managed to put together here at Broken Lantern Tattoo, with a solid and well rounded group of tattoo artists and building off the momentum of winning Charleston’s Best Tattoo Parlor last year, we have managed to repeat this year! In the past two years we have been recognized as the best Tattoo shop twice and one of our artist’s (Glenn Collins) has been recognized as Charleston’s best tattoo artist. It is an incredible honor to receive these types of acknowledgments as these contests are run completely by you, the population of this amazing city we call home. We are humbled that our clients and Charleston have decided to support us. Our team at Broken Lantern wants to thank you for appreciating the effort we put into making this the best tattoo shop possible, passing that experience on to you to give you the best tattoo possible. We can not thank you enough for recognizing us as the best tattoo shop, in the best city, with the best clients. We are nothing without you and we look forward to continuing to grow with you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Stay happy, Stay Healthy, Stay Safe, We love you!
We would also like to congratulate Brandy, who won our $250 dollar gift certificate! Thank you for voting for us!
by Glenn | Mar 19, 2020 | Tattoo Shop
The team at Broken Lantern Tattoo understands the tumultuous times we are under. Our priority has always been the safety of our clients and artists. We also hold ourselves to an incredibly high cleanliness and sanitation standard. We will be continuing operation as long as we are permitted with a few subtle changes to increase the safety of everyone involved. Tattooing has always been a social experience and we enjoy the interactions we have with our clients and their loved ones, however, for the time being we ask that you come alone to your appointment. Only those getting tattooed will be allowed to stay in the studio. Upon arrival we ask that you wash your hands before we hand out paperwork. We are still accepting walk ins and doing in person consultations with the same precautions. Only the person looking to get tattooed or talk through an idea will be permitted to stay. We will continue to sanitize and disinfect all touch surfaces. It should go without saying that if you are not feeling well or have traveled from a virus compromised location that you do not come to the shop. With your cooperation, we can continue to operate through this and pump amazing pieces of art out into the world. We love and appreciate all of you!
by Glenn | Dec 3, 2019 | Tattoo Shop
We are very proud of the team of artists we have managed to put together here at Broken Lantern Tattoo. Building off the momentum of our very own Glenn Collins being voted the best tattoo artist in Charleston, we now have now been recognized as a shop, becoming the Charleston’s Choice Best Tattoo Parlor. It is an incredible honor to receive this type of acknowledgment as, once again, this contest was run completely by you the population of this amazing city we call home. We are humbled that our clients and Charleston has decided to support us. Our team at Broken Lantern wants to thank you for appreciating the effort put in to make this the best tattoo shop possible, passing that experience on to you to give you the best tattoo possible. We can not thank you enough for recognizing us are the best tattoo shop, in the best city, with the best clients. We look forward to continuing to grow with you. Thank you!
by Glenn | Oct 11, 2019 | Tattoo Shop
After a very busy summer we finally got the chance to catch up with Glenn and chat with him about winning the Charleston City Paper’s Best Of award.
What does it mean to you to be voted the best tattoo artist in Charleston?
It is a culmination of a lot of hard work. People don’t typically see what goes on behind the scenes, but I’ve been grinding at this in Charleston since 2007 and tattooing since 2002.
For those that are not familiar with you as an artist, what would you say is your style?
I pride myself in being quite diverse, though my true passion lies in Japanese, Bio-Mech, Traditional, Lettering and Gangster Sh*t, but like I said I’m quite diverse.
What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?
I have always been driven to live outside the typical 9 to 5, and not partake in the rat race. The artform of tattooing has an undeniable feel for me. It’s Magical, it’s ancient, and has sacred appeal that drew (and kept) me in. I love doing this day in and day out and hope to keep providing people with the Truth!
What are some of your favorite things about Charleston?
Port city with great food with laid back clientele that have allowed me to express myself as an artist and grow.
Where do you hope to be in the next few years?
Right where I am at. Working with incredible clients to turn out timeless pieces. Also I would like to have my Black Belt, shout out to Malachy and American Top Team.
What do you think will happen as a result of winning the competition?
Hopefully it brings more attention to the brand of Broken Lantern. We have a shop full of talented artists and any exposure for me shines light on them as well. We are a family here looking for clients to grow with us.
How would someone go about getting an appointment with you?
The best way is to stop by the shop. We like to meet and talk with the clients before setting up an appointment. Tattooing is an incredibly personal experience and we want to make sure everyone is on the same page. If you live outside the area just give us a call.
by admin | Jun 1, 2019 | Tattoo Shop
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!
by admin | Feb 5, 2019 | Tattoo Shop
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!!!!
Sincerely,Broken Lantern Tattoo Team
by admin | Feb 1, 2019 | Tattoo Shop
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.
