Ask An Expert {Pineapple Tangaroa}
Q&A With Pineapple Tangaroa
Words by Jessi Devenyns Photos by Eric Morales
At Shaman Modifications, the body is a work of art, a blank canvas onto which brushstrokes are painted or details are pierced. For Pineapple, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and can be created by adding or subtracting ornaments from the body. Whether a first piercing or a more elaborate modification, Shaman encourages clients to remember that their beauty is what they make it.
What is one thing people need to know before getting a piercing at a tattoo parlor for the first time?
Have reasonable expectations. The body can only heal so fast; you can’t really speed it up but you definitely can slow it down and hinder it. Keep in mind future plans. For example, if it’s summer, you may not want to get your ears pierced because you’ll have to avoid swimming for a while.
What is the reason you use needles instead of guns for piercing?
The piercing gun actually causes rips and tears. It shoves a blunt object through the skin and makes it harder for skin to repair itself. On the other hand, a piercing needle makes a nice smooth incision which allows the skin to heal smoothly with less chance of scarring.
Why should children have their ears pierced at a piercing parlor?
Piercing parlors tend to be a lot safer. For us, safety includes consent. As such, we are big advocates of having piercing consent, not only from the parents but from the children themselves. So, the youngest that we pierce is 5 years old.
How do you ensure that a piercing studio is reputable?
Most of it just comes with asking questions. Studios should have a lot of information available to clients. But something to look out for is proper materials used. Also, check the portfolios of individual piercers to better understand their style and training.
What is the most effective piercing aftercare?
It’s pretty much don’t touch and keep dry. If a piercing is done well and with a proper piece of jewelry, leaving it alone is the best care to allow the body to heal itself. If that rule is used after a major surgery, why wouldn’t it heal the same way after a simple piercing?
How should one select their jewelry?
I normally recommend going to a reputable piercing shop with carefully selected jewelry in implant grade materials like titanium. There’s a lot of nice costume jewelry, but it’s not meant to be worn for long periods of time. All of our jewelry is made in the US, and every piece comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. That means if there are any problems with a piece of jewelry, we will fix it free of charge. Also we guarantee a proper fit.
Do you consult with clients on how to select their piercing placement and/or jewelry?
Yes. I love working with clients to create body art that suits their personality and lifestyle. Although there are endless ways to wear jewelry as an adornment, it is a very personal choice, and so it is my job to help find the right piece and the right place where the piercing will look its best.
Contact
(512) 981-6637
1601 E Cesar Chavez St, #106
downtown@ShamanMods.com
ShamanMods.com
