ZEBRA
Tattoo & Body Piercing
FAQ | Jewelry
Can i bring my own jewelry to get pierced?
There are no guarantees we will be able to use jewelry for a piercing if it was not purchased from us.
Our recommendation would be to bring in your own jewelry so we can inspect it; it must be the correct gauge, length, style and material. We only pierce with hypoallergenic metals: 14k solid gold, implant grade titanium, and surgical steel.
Do you return or exchange jewelry?
No, we do not return or exchange jewelry once it is opened or used. We will except returns/ exchanges if the jewelry purchased is still in the sealed bag it was sold in.
If you purchased jewelry online please see our ONLINE RETURN POLICY.
Why is my threadless jewelry bent?
The pin of the tops will have a slight bend in them to hold the jewelry together using tension.
If the pin was not bent, the top would slip out of the bar.
How do i put in my threadless jewelry?
To put in a threadless piece, you would insert the bar from the back and insert the pin on the top into the bar. Then you would push them together and make sure they are secure.
If you are having difficulty putting the bar in from the back, you can guide it through with a taper or another earring.
Why do i need to downsize?
When you are initially get a piercing, you will have a longer bar to accommodate for swelling. Once the swelling has gone down, usually about 4-6 weeks out, you will need a downsize. Shortening your jewelry will help with healing because the jewelry wont move back and forth as it would with a longer bar. Excessive movement on a fresh piercing can cause irritation, resulting in a bump to form.
FAQ | Piercing
do you take appointments for piercings?
Piercings are a
WALK-IN Service Only
We cut off for piercings depending on how long the wait time is.
For example:
If we have an 2 hour wait we will cut off piercings around 5pm since we close at 7pm.
If we have a 1 hour wait, we will cut off piercings around 6pm since we close at 7pm.
We recommend getting here when we first open to ensure you'll be able to get pierced. If we have a long wait you can walk around or grab food and we can text you when your turn is coming up!
Where can I get a piercing in Walnut Creek?
Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing in downtown Walnut Creek offers a full range of professional piercings in a safe, sterile environment. Our experienced piercers use only implant-grade titanium, and 14k or 18k gold jewelry. We’re a walk-in studio open Wednesday through Monday from 11:30 AM – 7 PM, located at 1419 North Broadway.
Q: Best place to get a body piercing in Berkeley?
Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley is known as one of the Bay Area’s most trusted piercing studios. Our professional piercers use implant-grade titanium, 14k gold, and surgical steel jewelry in a sterile, welcoming environment. We’re a walk-in studio open Friday through Tuesday from 11:30 AM – 7 PM, offering safe piercings for all styles—from simple lobes to curated ear projects.
what time do you stop taking piercings?
Both shops are open from 11:30am-7:00pm. However, we cut off for piercings depending on how long the wait time is.
For example:
If we have an 2 hour wait we will cut off piercings around 5pm since we close at 7pm.
If we have a 1 hour wait, we will cut off piercings around 6pm since we close at 7pm.
We recommend getting here when we first open to ensure you'll be able to get pierced. If we have a long wait you can walk around or grab food and we can text you when your turn is coming up!
how long are your wait times?
Please be prepared to wait! Piercing wait times can be difficult to estimate and we cannot absolutely guarantee a spot in line. Weekdays tend to be slower than weekends. Weekends & Holiday wait times tend to be about 1-2 hours, but it can be longer depending on how busy we are. Weekends are usually about 5 mins-1 hour, but this can also vary.
We recommend getting here when we first open to ensure you'll be able to get pierced. If we have a long wait you can walk around or grab food and we can text you when your turn is coming up!
If i'm pregnant, can i get a piercing?
No, Zebra does not pierce individuals who are pregnant. Please see below:
Higher infection risk – Pregnancy weakens your immune system, making infections harder to fight.
Slower healing – Your body is focused on growing a baby, so wounds (like piercings) may heal more slowly.
Possible complications – Allergic reactions or infections could affect both you and the baby.
Changes in your body – Pregnancy can cause swelling or shifting skin, which may affect the placement and healing of the piercing.
It's best to wait until after birth and healing.
how does the piercing order work?
Once you pay you get your spot in line. The order is not determined by when you arrive at the shop, it is determined by when you pay.
If you're waiting and you notice someone behind you in line is getting pierced before you this may be because:
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They may have prepaid from a previous day or just need a change/consult.
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They paid earlier and went to run errands.
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We have several piercers that are handling different piercings and possibly multiple piercings or large groups.
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If you get numbing the wait time is slightly longer as it takes 20-30 minutes to kick in.
How do I know if I’m having an allergic reaction to a piercing?
Signs of an allergic reaction to a new piercing often include persistent redness, itching, burning, or a rash that doesn’t improve with normal aftercare. You might also notice swelling, bumps, or discharge that looks more like irritation than infection. The most common cause is sensitivity to certain metals, such as nickel.
At Zebra, all piercings are performed using EO gas pre-sterilized, single-use disposable needles and implant-grade titanium or 14k solid yellow gold jewelry to minimize irritation and allergic response. Before heading to a doctor, you’re always welcome to call the shop or stop by so our piercers can take a look — it’s very common for irritation or swelling to be mistaken for infection.
If your piercing appears tight or swollen and there’s no room on the bar, we may recommend upsizing the jewelry (switching to a longer bar), which can provide instant relief and reduce pressure while your piercing continues to heal.
what do i need to get my minor pierced?
Any individual minor under the age of 18 years old must bring all of the following:
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A photo ID with proof of birthdate (Driver’s License/school ID/ birth certificate/ passport)
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A parent or legal guardian must be physically present in the shop with a valid state issued ID. If the minor brings a legal guardian they must provide the legal documents from the court/Department of Corrections stating legal guardianship over the minor.
Do you offer numbing for piercings?
Yes, we offer numbing cream for certain piercings for an additional $10 fee per piercing.
do you pierce babies?
Yes! Please refer to our ZEBRA KIDZ section to see all information regarding getting your infant or child pierced!
What’s the best place to get a piercing in Walnut Creek?
If you’re looking for the best piercing studio in Walnut Creek, Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing is known for its professional piercers, sterile technique, and curated jewelry selection. Our team prioritizes safety, comfort, and aftercare education for every client.
Can I change my jewelry before it’s fully healed?
We strongly recommend waiting until your piercing is completely healed before changing jewelry. Switching too early can trap bacteria or reopen the wound. If you’d like a new look, visit Zebra—our piercers can safely change your jewelry using sterile tools once healing is complete. If you REALLY want to change out your jewelry before it's fully healed, please visit our shop & we can assist you.
What piercings hurt the most and the least?
Pain varies by person, but generally: earlobes, upper ear, and nostril are the least painful, while nipple, septum, daith, and cartilage rim piercings may feel sharper due to thicker tissue and more nerve endings. Zebra’s piercers work quickly and precisely to keep discomfort minimal.
How long does it take for a piercing to heal?
Healing time depends on location and individual anatomy. Earlobes typically heal in 6–8 weeks, cartilage in 4–6 months, nostril piercings in 2–4 months, and navel or nipple piercings can take 9–12 months. Proper aftercare and hygiene are key to a smooth healing process. For more detailed information, visit our aftercare section.
should i tip my piercing artist
Tipping is not mandatory, but anything is appreciated. Cash, Apple Pay, Zelle, CashApp, Venmo are available tip options for most artists.
Can I get multiple piercings in one session?
Yes! You can safely get multiple piercings in one visit, depending on anatomy, placement pain tolerance, and overall experience with body piercings. Your piercer will advise on spacing and healing time to ensure each piercing heals properly. We also offer curations where we provide our customers with multiple ear piercings/jewelry changes giving you a new cohesive looks and completely transform the look of your ears. For more information please click here.
What’s the best metal for new piercings?
The safest, hypoallergenic choices are implant-grade titanium, 14k–18k gold, and surgical steel. Avoid inexpensive or unverified jewelry, as these may contain nickel or other irritants that slow healing. Stay away from Sterling Silver!
How do I clean and care for a new piercing?
Clean your piercing twice daily using sterile saline or a gentle aftercare spray recommended by your piercer. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh cleansers. Always wash your hands first, and keep hair, makeup, and clothing away from the area while it heals. For more detailed information, visit our aftercare section.
Do piercings close up if jewelry is removed?
Yes, especially if the piercing is new. Earlobes may remain open for years, but cartilage and nose piercings can close within days or weeks if jewelry is removed too soon. Always keep jewelry in place until your piercer confirms it’s safe to take out.
Can I Fly after i get pierced?
Yes you can! However in some case we have seen extra swelling around the pierced area.
Can I get my navel pierced after a tummy tuck?
Yes! As long as you have proper anatomy.
There needs to be enough of a lip in order to get pierced. Depending on the scaring/ tightness a piercing would not be recommend.
Its always best to have a consultation with a piercer first to determine if a navel piercing is right for you.
I (OR MY CHILD) AM NEURODIVERGENT. DO YOU OFFER ACCOMMODATIONS
Absolutely. We understand that getting piercings can feel overwhelming for anyone, especially those with sensory sensitivities or other neurodivergent needs. Our staff is trained to provide a calm, patient, and supportive experience. We're happy to coordinate with you to schedule your experience during a quieter time and create an environment that feels more comfortable. Please reach out to us directly so we can make sure your visit is as smoth and stress-free as possible.
Is my piercing infected?
In most cases your piercing will be irritated, not infected. Irritation is much more common and can cause a bump, have discard, and/ or blood coming from the piercing.
We always recommend coming into the shop to have a piercer look at it.
FAQ | Tattoo
do you take walk-in tattoos?
We do accept walk-in tattoos if we have an artist available. We typically recommend booking an appointment for tattoo services. Feel free to call ahead to see if we have any same-day availability.
Where can I get a custom tattoo in Walnut Creek?
You can get a custom tattoo at Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing, Walnut Creek’s trusted studio since 1984. Our artists specialize in personalized, hand-drawn designs and provide free consultations to help you plan your piece. Visit us at 1419 North Broadway, open six days a week.
how do i make a tattoo appointment?
To schedule a tattoo appointment, you need to call or come into the shop to leave a minimum of an $100 deposit. Please keep in mind that larger tattoos/time slots will require a larger deposit than $100. That deposit secures your spot in an artist’s schedule and comes off of the total price the day you receive your tattoo. Our shop minimum for tattoos is $180, but the final price of the tattoo will depend on size and detail. Our hourly rate of $200 only pertains to work that requires multiple sessions. The only person who can give you a more exact estimate would be the artist you would work with.
If i'm pregnant, can i get a tattoo?
No, Zebra does not tattoo individuals who are pregnant. Please se below:
Infection risk – You could be exposed to infection, which can harm both you and the baby.
Chemical exposure – Tattoo inks could potentially contain substances that haven’t been proven safe during pregnancy.
Weakened immunity – Your body is more vulnerable during pregnancy, making healing harder and riskier.
Body changes – Skin stretches and changes, which can distort the tattoo later.
It’s safest to wait until after pregnancy.
do i need a consultation?
For larger or more detailed pieces, we usually recommend a consultation appointment. A consultation is a free thirty-minute service where you would meet with the artist of your choice to discuss and exchange ideas about your tattoo. You can check out our artists’ portfolios, and once you find an artist whose style you would like to work with the most, give us a call and we can set up a consultation for you with the artist of your choice on a day that works best for the both of you.
can i get tattooed if i'm under 18 with parental consent?
California state law prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from being tattooed under any circumstance, regardless of weather they have consent from their parents or legal guardian. Per California Pena Code 653
what do i need to bring with me to get tattooed?
It is California State Law that an individual must be 18 years or older to receive a tattoo, even with parental consent. You must bring a valid state ID or passport.
do i tip my tattoo artist?
Tipping is not mandatory, but anything is appreciated. Cash, Apple Pay, Zelle, CashApp, Venmo are available tip options for most artists.
What is the process of getting a custom tattoo design?
At Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing, the custom tattoo process starts with a free consultation where you meet with one of our artists to discuss your ideas, placement, pricing, and size. After your consultation, we will schedule your tattoo appointment where you will be able to view your final design. You will have the opportunity to make any changes to your design before we make the stencil. The stencil will be made & placed on the desired location. Once the size & placement is confirmed, we will begin the tattoo. Once completed, we will provide you with aftercare instructions.
Each design is hand-drawn and tailored exclusively for you — ensuring your piece is one-of-a-kind and never duplicated.
Does Zebra use hypoallergenic tattoo ink?
Yes. At Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing, we take every precaution to ensure a safe and sterile environment for our clients. All equipment is properly sterilized, and our artists use only reputable, professional-grade pigments from trusted manufacturers.
We proudly use tattoo inks known for their purity, consistency, and hypoallergenic formulations, including:
Each brand is vegan-friendly, tested for safety, and produced to meet strict industry standards. For Safety Data Sheets of these pigments, please click: HERE.
Does getting a tattoo hurt, and where does it hurt the least?
ll tattoos involve some level of discomfort, but pain varies depending on placement and individual tolerance. Areas with thicker skin and fewer nerve endings—like the outer arm, shoulder, calf, and outer thigh—tend to hurt the least and are ideal for first-time tattoos. More sensitive areas include the ribs, spine, ankles, and inner arms. At the end of the day, the above information should not steer you away of getting the tattoo where you WANT the tattoo. Get your tattoo where you want it and where your artist recommends would look the best.
How often should tattoos be touched up?
Not all tattoos require a touch up. Please swing by the shop or send us a picture after one month of your appointment. We will asses & schedule a touch-up appointment if necessary. Touch-ups are complimentary within 90 days of yor tattoo appointment date. Using broad-spectrum sunscreen helps keep your tattoo vibrant for years.
What are the most popular tattoo styles right now?
Current trends include fine-line microrealism, blackwork, neo-traditional, Japanese Irezumi, and futuristic cybersigilism. Classic American Traditional is ALWAYS in style : )
How long does a tattoo take to heal completely?
The outer layer of skin typically heals in 2–4 weeks, while full skin regeneration takes 3–6 months depending on the tattoo’s size, detail, and your aftercare routine. Keep your tattoo clean, lightly moisturized, and protected from sunlight to preserve color and detail.
Are tattoos safe? What hygiene standards do you follow?
Yes. Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing follows strict sterilization and sanitation protocols that meet and exceed California Department of Public Health standards.
We use single-use needles, disposable tubes, medical-grade disinfectants, and autoclave-sterilized equipment for every procedure to ensure client safety and a clean, professional environment.
How do I prepare for my first tattoo session?
Stay hydrated, get a full night’s sleep, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, or blood thinners for at least 24 hours before your session. Eat a good meal beforehand, wear loose clothing, and bring snacks or water for longer appointments. Communicate openly with your artist about your design and comfort level.
Can I bring my own tattoo design or use AI to create one?
Absolutely. Zebra artists can tattoo from your personal design or collaborate using AI design tools to refine or visualize ideas before your appointment. Each design is custom and hand-drawn by your artist to ensure it’s unique to you. Please be advised that not all images translate well to a tattoo, so please be open to your artist's feedback.
What should I avoid before and after getting a tattoo?
Before your appointment, avoid alcohol, aspirin, and caffeine as they can thin your blood. Afterward, avoid direct sun exposure, swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, and tight clothing until your tattoo has fully healed—usually around 2–4 weeks.
What should I do if my tattoo starts peeling or scabbing?
Peeling and mild flaking are completely normal during healing—avoid picking, scratching, or peeling off scabs. Clean gently with fragrance-free soap, keep the tattoo lightly moisturized with tattoo-safe lotion, and protect it from dirt and sunlight. Peeling usually lasts 1–3 weeks.
MISCELLANEOUS
where should i park?
Both locations have meter parking available on the street.
At our Walnut Creek location, there is a parking garage across the street from us on N. Broadway and Cypress that is free for the first hour.
At our Berkeley Location, there is a parking garage 2 blocks away off Channing Way and Telegraph Ave.
what forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, ApplePay Google Pay, Android Pay, debit cards, and of course cash. Credit cards are subject to a 3% surcharge. This surcharge can be avoided by paying with debit or cash.
If you want to tip your artist please bring cash, some artist have venmo as well <3
tattoo faq