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 #198 2018 NOVEMBER

BUYER’S GUIDE FOR BODY MODIFICATION PROFESSIONALS MODIFICATION BODY FOR GUIDE BUYER’S

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ THE TATTOO SHOPPE TATTOO THE BASH TATTOO WILDWOOD TATTOO BILLET

staff

NOVEMBER Publisher Ralph Garza ISSUE 198 ISSUE Editor-In-Chief R Cantu

Account Executive Jennifer Orellana [email protected] 505-332-3003
 Managing Editor 12 Sandy Caputo [email protected] Feature: SOM 20 No Ragrets Art Director 16 Jason Bourne [email protected] Hidden Los Ask Angel Angeles Contributing Writers 18 Elayne Angel David Pogge Art Gallery: Austin Ray Darin Burt Hidden Los Angeles Tanya Madden PAIN Favs 25 26 The Tattoo Feature: Executive Assistant PAIN Favs 22 Shoppe Inking the Deal Richard DePreist [email protected] 30 505-275-6049 Billet Tattoo Spotlight: Artist Profile 36 Body Art Solutions

Nate Laird 34 9901PAIN MagazineAcoma Rd. SE Spotlight: Albuquerque, NM 87123 H2Ocean [email protected] General Inquiries: 38 [email protected] Best Business www.painmag.com Shows Card Contest www.facebook.com/painmagazine 31 Subscriptions: [email protected] Wildwood Tattoo 40 PAINful Classic: Printed in Canada Beach Bash Beer Recommendations Publications Mail Agreement #40069018 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: 737 Moray St., Winnipeg MB, Canada, R3J 3S9 advertisersindex contacts 505-275-6510 Fax Baller Inc. DC Tattoo Expo 19 Needlejig 27 505-275-6049 Editorial Body Art Solutions 41 Painful Pleasures 5, 13 cover sponsor Body Shock 11 Papa Tattoo Supply 6 CHAMPS Trade Show 42 Papillons Tattoo Supply 7 Since 2001,H2Ocean H2Ocean has been the world leader DASH Medical Supplies 3 PPIB 24 in tattoo and body piercing aftercare. H2Ocean’s ointment based, and water based products heal your new tattoo or body piercing Desert Palms Emu Ranch Gloves 17 Rejuvi Labs 21 faster because we use unrefined mineral enriched sea salt hand harvested from the worlds most diverse ecosystem – the Red Sea. Eternal Ink 4 Shining Light Body Jewelry 43 H2Ocean offers everything you need to safely and Face and Body 35 Tattoo Goo 15 naturally heal your body modifications. From pain relieving and Vegan products, to a sunscreen specifically formulated to protect H2Ocean Natural Aftercare Front Cover, 9 Technical Tattoo Supply 44 your new ink, we’ve got you covered. Hempzilla CBD Tattoo Cream Inside Back Cover That’s The Point 14 H2ocean.com (866) 420-2326 Hulk Professional Super Bond 11 Tommy’s Supplies 2 See pages 9 and 34 Metal Mafia IFC-1, Back Cover Tulsa Body Jewelry 35 Micky Sharpz USA Villain Arts Tattoo Conventions Copyright 2018 PAIN Magazine. All rights reserved. Published monthly by Pain, Inc. 10 39 Subscriptions available for $39/year (U.S. funds). Send requests to address listed Nat-A-Tat2 21 above. Please mail address changes, and include label from previous issue. For all other information call (505) 275-6049. For submission guidelines, log on to our website at www.painmag.com. Pain, Inc. assumes no responsibility for contents herein. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the writer. PAINMAGAZINE 8

owdy folks and welcome to the November issue of Pain Magazine! Only two months left of 2018 and we are rockin’ it Hover here! How has your year shaped up? With so many incredible new launches on the horizon for Pain… I’d like to remind you all of what’s up next as we close out 2018 and enter 2019.

First, we all know that the Internet has changed the way people and businesses shop for and buy products, which is why Pain has elevated its online presence. In addition to being the industry’s number one printed publication, Pain is in the process of launching THE premier online buying source for everything this fine industry has to offer! This digital marketplace will include a fully functional shopping cart feature; and wholesalers/vendors will be able to promote, market, and sell products through a personal digital page. Pre-qualified, registered buyers (shop owners and professional artists) browsing the site will be able to access participating wholesaler pages and place orders directly from the Pain Mall Website.

Only approved and registered buyers will be able to make purchases through your direct digital pages. Please call Jenn today at 505-332-3003 to create your customer profile! And the best part… It’s FREE!

Next, Pain’s Favorite’s is a new section where professional artists can showcase their work ---- artists will receive a full page of dedicated space, which includes up to 12 images, a bio, headshot, and contact information. This is an opportunity for your work to reach the entire tattoo and piercing community…Think of it as your big chance to brag. We’ll send you some extra copies of the magazine too so you can display it in your waiting area or frame up your feature and hang it in your work station. You can even send one to Mom! Call Jenn today at 505-332-3003.

Lastly, Pain will be launching a brand new website in early 2019! Stay tuned for advertising options and details. Hope you all have a wonderful Turkey Day this November…and don’t forget to start planning for the biggest shopping day of the year…BLACK FRIDAY! O

PAINMAGAZINE 10

PAINFEATURE

“You’re going to regret that when you’re older.” It’s catechism number one of the tattoo industry’s detractors. But is it true? If you sit in at an afternoon bridge club or hang out in the stands of a high school soccer game, you’ll likely hear enough anecdotal evidence to solidify the statement as gospel. But anecdotes are why people try to cure cancer with castor oil. What does the actual data say? Is there any on the subject? As it turns out, there’s plenty. Academia is watching.

To cut through the speculation, we sifted through 15—yes, 15—peer-reviewed, academic articles, plus a public poll on tattoos, covering their evolving social status and their psycho- logical effects on those who obtain them. The process was illuminating, but mind-numbingly tedious. Academia has a real knack for sucking the life out of otherwise interesting subject matter.

So, how much merit is there in the fearful mutterings of child-rearing suburbanites? Statistically, not much.

First, we have the numbers from a national poll conducted by Harris Insights and Analytics in late 2015. Of those surveyed who had tattoos, only 23% expressed regret over their choice. Of that 23%, the most common regrets were what you would expect. They got it too young, their personality has changed, it’s an ex-lover’s name, it’s poorly executed, it lacks meaning; basically, all the textbook faux pas actively avoided by self- respecting artists.

It should be noted, however, that tattoo regrets have risen by 9% since 2003. But considering the rapid growth of the industry during that period, it should be expected. In 2003, the percentage of the populace with one or more tattoos was at 16%. By 2015, that number had jumped up to nearly one in three. Among the youngest demographic (18-24) the rise took an even steeper climb, from 13% in 2003 to 35% in 2015. No, we’re not mixing up proportions with raw numbers. continued on page 14

PAINMAGAZINE 12

painfeature continued

We are merely suggesting that the intense spike in the numbers, especially among the young, suggests a hastiness in the populace, perhaps recklessly so, which again, leads to the reasons for regret cited by the survey.

Equally compelling is a 2011 academic study conducted by Viren Swami of the University of Westminster in London. Swami recruited 82 clients from a London tattoo parlor and conducted three surveys, one preceding the tattoo, one immediately following, and one three weeks later. The surveys focused on the overall confidence of the subjects, self-esteem, body image, etc. The results extensively erode the authority of the conventional wisdom on the subject, if not directly contradicting it.

“Indeed,” he wrote, “the present study found that obtaining a tattoo resulted in a significant improvement in self-esteem over a three-week period among both men and women. This finding is notable because it highlights the positive impact of obtaining a tattoo on an individual’s overall sense of self.”

Tattoos and the Self, a 2012 study that focused specifically on women with tattoos, further illustrates a low recipient-to-regret ratio. Of the women surveyed, 87% stated that they were happy with their choices and planned to get more tattoos in the future. Those that did express regret gave reasons largely analogous to those previously cited, which as already noted, can be largely avoided through the current existing practices of quality parlors.

But not even academia is completely capable of pure objec- tivity. There was more than one study in which the authors seemed to rely heavily on residual cultural bias. One article from South Korea, for example, viewed the growing comfort with tattoos as cause for alarm, based purely on previous unsavory associations the trade has now largely shed.

“Continuous attention to, and interest in, the increased inci- dence of tattooing and piercing are necessary, especially in terms of public interventions for health education and health promotion, as these forms of self-adornment are associated with behaviours that pose a risk to health,” they concluded. Somewhere within the thought process was an arguable confusion of correlation and causation, as well as use of outdated metrics.

Overall, however, even the most biased of studies failed to prove any significant negativity associated with getting a tattoo regarding the internal state of the recipient. There is still more ground to cover on the external perceptions—meaning other people’s view of a tattooed person—but even there, the numbers are moving in a positive direction. For example, according to the Harris Poll, 58% of Americans now say they are comfortable with having someone with tattoos in the Oval Office.

Given the topic of the discussion, these trends will be difficult to reverse. Tattoos, by their nature, aren’t a fad that can just fade away like a style of jeans or a brand of shoes. So long as quality artists continue to wrest control of the industry from the scratchers, honing their craft and exercising cautious responsibility, we will likely see an end to the remaining stigmas on tattoos in our lifetime.

Years ago, your parents were right. But now they’re wrong. O

PAINMAGAZINE 14

Ask Elayne Angel Jewelry Quality Matters

Dear Angel,

I know you say that internally threaded jewelry is best, but is there really that much of a difference? It is so much more expensive than what I use. For sure the external stuff from China isn’t the best, but it is supposed to be made of 316L stainless steel, so that’s good, right? I want to stay competitive but I’m kinda torn because I want to be the best piercer I can. Most of the piercings I do seem to heal out okay. Does it really matter?

Thanks for your help, A.

Dear A., [Note: The EEC Nickel Directive is a regu- is 316 (whether L or LVM), does not have lation that requires a low rate of nickel any guarantee that it meets ASTM f138 or I’m glad you asked. Because the answer, in release for all materials used for costume or ISO 5832-1 standards. These are the a word, is yes; it does matter. Possibly without fine jewelry, belt buckles, watches, or other specific, recognized metals requirements for exception, inexpensive imported body metallic accessories with direct skin contact. steel and titanium body jewelry. Metals that jewelry is not only cheap in price, but also It does not specify nor prove that a material bear these designations have been tested downright poor in quality. In addition to the is safe to wear in the body; therefore, compli- and found compliant with the accepted threading style, several other critical factors ance with this directive alone is not sufficient criteria. contribute to whether body jewelry is of for meeting the APP initial jewelry standards.] optimal quality including material, finish, As far as external threads go, damage and machining. • Titanium (Ti6Al4V ELI) that is ASTM F136 can occur if the rough surface of an exposed compliant or ISO 5832-3 compliant screw pattern is passed directly through the When I began piercing professionally • Titanium that is ASTM F67 compliant tissue during insertion or removal. If the in the 1980s, the best jewelry available had • Solid 14 karat or higher nickel and threads are stepped down to fit inside your not yet achieved the standards maintained cadmium free yellow, white, or rose gold piercing needles, and if you use tapers that by the top producers in the market today. • Solid nickel-free platinum alloy prevent contact with the threads during I’ve seen it with my own eyes, and I have • Niobium (Nb) jewelry changes, the dangers will be mini- absolutely no doubt that piercings heal better • All threaded or press-fit jewelry must have mized. But without those safeguards, using with the implant-certified metals and mirror internal tapping (no threads on posts). this style can be traumatic. It is like running finishes that are now readily accessible. • For body jewelry purposes, surfaces and a small metal file through the body, especially ends must be smooth, free of nicks, if the hole is new and/or tight. Piercees who The Association of Professional Piercers scratches, burrs, polishing compounds change their own jewelry are likely not using (APP) minimum jewelry standards for initial and metals must have a consistent mirror insertion tapers, which means there’s greater piercings were established following exten- finish. potential for tissue damage—even with sive research. Below are the current stan- healed piercings. dards, which were adopted in 2009 and Certain glass and plastic materials are updated in April of 2017 to include rose also approved for wear in fresh piercings, When it comes to a healing tongue gold: but for this conversation we’ll stick to the piercing, if any of the basal cells that divide •Steel that is ASTM F138 compliant or metals. near the surface get pushed into the interior, ISO 5832-1 compliant (as is likely when swapping out externally •Steel that is ISO 10993-6, 10993-10, You’ll note that 316L is not mentioned threaded jewelry), they’ll continue to split and/or 10993-11 compliant as part of the criteria for materials! Steel that and reproduce. This could result in excess

PAINMAGAZINE 16 epithelial tissue growing inside the piercing notoriously has dull, defective finishes. With best jewelry manufacturing companies oper- channel. Since downsizing the initial barbell an uneven jewelry surface, the new cells that ating in the US have been vetted by the APP, is common—and advisable—once swelling is are formed during healing grow into the irreg- and granted “corporate sponsor” status . down, the risk is real if tapers aren’t used to ularities. Then, when the ornament shifts or prevent tissue contact with external threads. moves, these areas tear. As this cycle is As a guest piercer traveling throughout the Some companies do make higher quality repeated, scar tissue forms and healing is country, I see that studios have no trouble what- pieces with external threads, which are fine delayed. A faulty finish can also introduce soever selling this superior inventory. Many are for healed piercings that do not have tight bacteria into the wound and cause infection. also moving exclusive luxury pieces of gold channels; but, for initial piercings, the internal Cheap captive and fixed bead rings are not and gemstones. Piercers are selling a treasure style jew elry avoids any possibility of annealed like they are with the better brands. trove of high-end jewelry from coast to coast! damaging tissue with screw threads. Of Annealing is a process in which the material Don’t underestimate your clientele’s willingness course, press-fit jewelry skirts that issue entirely is heated and cooled to improve its properties. and ability to pay for quality products. by using threadless closures. In the case of body jewelry metals, it helps make rings pliable enough to bend fairly Though the prices in my New Orleans Internally threaded jewelry is more difficult readily by hand. Jewelry that is not annealed studio were considerably higher than those and costly to make. Manufacturers who create will be harder—or impossible—to insert and of most other local shops, cost-resistance was high-end internally threaded products are more remove without pliers. When rings can be infrequent when we provided shoppers with likely than the bargain-basement guys to use opened and closed without the use of tools, it an education about the differences in quality, implant-certified materials—and to do superior reduces the risk of damaging the metal and and its importance for optimal safety and machining. Better jewelry generally has higher the client (from slipping while applying force healing. thread counts and deeper screw patterns too, to bend stiff rings). so the balls tend to stay on more securely. The sign Jim Ward posted in the jewelry You mentioned competitiveness, and as case at Gauntlet decades ago still rings true The surface finish and polish are also crit- such you should be aware that there’s a vastly today. It was a sensible statement in callig- ical. To be safe for healing, metal body jewelry expanded, rapidly growing awareness of the raphy on parchment: “The bitterness of poor must have a mirror finish—a high-shine, super- APP, thanks to massive social media exposure. quality remains long after the sweetness of smooth surface. Body jewelry that has nicks, More and more consumers are seeking out low price is forgotten.” My advice is to go for burrs, tooling marks, or scratches can cause members of the organization, and the top- the good stuff; it is worth it! O severe complications. Cheap body jewelry quality jewelry we use is in high demand. The

PAINMAG.COM PAINMAGAZINE 18

747.888.3539 www.hidden-la.com facebook.com/HiddenLATattoo IG: @hiddenlosangeles

rett Herman is no stranger to the pages of this publi- cation of success, they’re maintaining a consistent five-star cation. First showing up as a featured artist a year rating with 97 reviews and counting. ago, his name has since regularly appeared as a co- author for a variety of columns whipped up by our There’s a myriad of factors that greased the track to editorial staff for your educational pleasure. The success, but Brett chalks it up to the basics: the time-tested Baspiring seven-string guitarist-turned-black and gray wizard combination of art and attitude. has only been working the needle for a decade. But within that time-span, he’s It starts with the art, accumulated a formi- which they have on lockdown. dable wealth of Their six-artist roster boasts a insight. level of quality and notoriety that would keep any shop But this article alive, and that statement isn’t about Brett. It’s doesn’t even touch the diver- about Hidden Los sity. Whether you’re looking Angeles, the explo- for black and gray portrait sively popular SoCal work, color realism, tradi- ink destination he tional/neo-traditional, dark cofounded with his art/sci-fi, or something colleagues and fellow completely different, there’s artists, Richard someone on the list who can Carniglia and Chris make your idea a reality. Velasquez. Brett is just the mouthpiece. “Yeah,” Brett acknowl- edges, “Our crew had done a Only six years in bunch of cool shit. Jamie's on existence, Hidden Los Ink Master now and Marc Angeles Tattoo and started a style called 'Game Fine Art has carved an impressive niche for itself. When it Frame' tattooing—all of us have definitely created a niche for started in 2012, it was basically a parachute for three talented ourselves.” But for Brett, this aspect is basically a given. It’s artists at a struggling shop about to go belly-up. Now, it’s one not arrogance that guides this; the work just speaks for itself. of LA’s most celebrated tattoo parlors, listed in the city’s top He quickly shifts the conversation to the second element. ten in a variety of surveys and publications. If Yelp is any indi- continued on page 28

PAINMAGAZINE 20 PAINMAG.COM 22 PAINMAGAZINE started (what I’d think to be ) the first day time studio in Texas…10am hits and my doors are open until 8 pm. I tried to beat the theory that a tattoo shop must be a nightlife thing, and I’m sure glad I did. IIt’s been 3 years and Billet Tattoo just keeps growing. Come to find out people actually like getting tattooed as early as I can wake up. Plus, it’s always nice being able to go home and do homework and make dinner with my kids. Call me old school, but I absolutely love eating at the table with my kids at night. I have finally achieved a perfect balance between work and family. I am truly blessed. Before tattooing, I spent a good part of my life in the Army. I was a combat Engineer for 6 years and continued my education in a few different areas that overall led me to become the business owner that I am today. A little bit of business law, taxes, and phlebotomy. I actually graduated top of my class. I ran back to tattooing though. The flexability to be the mother I wanted to be was just there with tattooing. Sometimes I feel like I’m the opposite of the tattoo stigma. I wear boots and a hat to work, and I love my glitter belt buckle…The bigger the better, and I jam out to country music while I tattoo. What better place for a country girl to have the cutest little shop but in Texas. I just claim to be that little lone star on the flag, can’t miss us. The shop name Billet, comes from the old days in the military, where men would tattoo themselves to escape time in the Billets after hours. I love that I can bring a little bit of our past to our future. O

Yvette Green Owner of Billet Tattoo Studio 6199 39th Groves Texas 77619 409-433-0418

PAINMAG.COM PAINMAGAZINE 24 started my career in progress in my craft. That Wellsboro, PA in 2011. After feeling when you give someone a brief apprenticeship, I a piece of art that they cherish, branched out on my own and that has meaning to them… II’ve been a full-time artist and That is shop owner for 7 the years. feeling that makes this I specialize career so special to in color work, me. watercolor and cover ups. I believe that as It’s fascinating artists we should to me that remain humble and after seven appreciative that we get to years in the do what we love for a living. industry I still Most people are not lucky a b s o l u t e l y enough to have that. love going to work “I would like to thank everyone e v e r y that has helped me get to day. I love that I get to where I am today. Tattooing express myself in my art for saved me in more ways than I a living, and have the oppor- can explain, and I am forever tunity to constantly learn and grateful”. - Mike Geyer

PAINMAG.COM PAINFEATURE ne of the not be abandoned after the rewards of tattoo is finished. Tattoos being a are for life, and ultimately, t a t t o o the client is buying a artist is unique relationship with Obeing able to do what you and your studio, not you love. But here’s the something they can get hard truth: all the talent from every other shop in and skill in the world town. won’t bring you success if you can’t close the Stick to sale. Given the growing your price acceptance and popu- There is no perfect larity of body art, means formula for pricing your more competition, and work, but one rule to more choices for poten- remember is don’t cheat tial clients. Selling yourself. Charge what you tattoos can be just as feel comfortable charging, hard if not harder than but err on the high side. creating them, so here Low pricing often signifies are a few tips to get you to clients that the artist master the art of (pardon doesn’t have confidence in the pun) inking the deal. their work. Prices can go up, but they should never Know go down. your client Along with knowing Offer options your art form comes No two clients are knowing your client. Is alike in regard to what they this their first tattoo or want and what they can do they have their entire afford. Keep your prices body covered with ink? consistent, but offer options Why have they come to that fit their budget without you for their tattoo? You sacrificing quality. Maybe should know what moti- a different size, style or less vates their choice and detailed design. Instead of understand how you giving your clients a choice and your shop fit into the between you and a decision. When you competitor, you’re allowing know the “buying them to choose between habits” of your client, you and YOU. People are you can use that info to going to price shop; it’s develop a more compre- unavoidable. You want to hensive plan—that ensure they’re price sh op- means repeat business. ping in your shop only. Put yourself in the best position to get a "yes" Don't seem by focusing on what desperate! most concerns your Everybody has their prospective client. slow days, but do yourself a favor and never appear Believe in as though you’ll do yourself ANYTHING for a buck. It’s an age-old sales Smart customers avoid maxim that believing in used car salesmen willing your product or service to say or do whatever it is essential. It’s the same takes make a sale. So, whether you're selling don’t make a deal just to toasters or tattoos. You fill the chair or offer some will never be effective cheesy tattoo at a next to selling so mething you nothing price simply to stay do not believe in — and client believe in you, trust you, and see that you’re coming from some place much busy. Remember that that includes yourself. deeper than just making money. Once you achieve this, you will absolutely, positively you’re giving your cli ent When you exude be more successful. something special that will passion and confidence make their lives better, and — without being an a- Sell the relationship your attitude ought to hole rockstar — you It’s especially true in the tattoo community that relationships are more valuable to reflect that. Make your break down the wall of both you and your client than a one-time session. For the artist, relationships bring client feel like you’re doubt and earn the trust repeat business, the ability to explore a wider variety of projects, increased referrals, helping them — not that of your client. It is your and the ability to charge a premium because of the higher perceived value of your they’re helping you! O ultimate goal to have a work. For the uncertain client, relationships help build trust and let them know they will PAINMAGAZINE 26

“What sustains all of that is just keeping up that attitude.” This is the thrust of what is on his mind. Los Angeles is a verifiable breeding ground for ego-centric class consciousness. It’s all about who you are and who you know. But while they’ve inked the skin of so-called celebrities—everyone from Christopher ‘McLovin’ Mintz-Plasse to Britney Spears (ask Brett to tell you that story; it’s hilarious)—they make it a point to treat every client like they’re the most important chunk of flesh they’ve been privileged to mark thus far.

“Famous or not, they are all super cool,” Brett says, a tone of gratitude warming his words. “We have awesome clients who have made us what we are.”

“Just being in LA,” he goes on, “you see random people. It's like, 'Oh, that's that famous dude right there,' but really, they're just people. They've g otten some fame for something they did and good for them, but they're still just normal people.”

But as much as he’s inclined to focus on these basic, but enviable aspects of their business, it would be a disservice to the reader not to discuss the space itself. From the beginning, Brett and company wanted to build something special. When they acquired their storefront, it was the standard series of retail shoeboxes with restrictive walls and suburban-style ceiling styles. Not for long.

PAINMAGAZINE 28 “We took all the ceiling tiles out and exposed everything,” Brett recalls. “We really opened it up and gave it a rustic industrial look and put in this super-cool hardwood floor.” The renovations didn’t stop there. In fact, over the six years the operation has been in business, they’ve averaged a renovation a year. No matter the stage in their evolution, the space has maintained a consistently unrivaled wow factor with an open feel and walls covered in canvases that are equally mind-blowing and unique.

Originally, the space doubled as an art gallery, with shows hosted at least once a quarter.

“It really wasn't a big money maker,” Brett acknowledges. “It was more just an excuse to throw parties.” Refreshingly honest though his words may be, the statement belies the deeper strategy of community outreach through art awareness.

“The stuff we were doing definitely helped us to become the talk of the town,” he qualifies. “The wild parties (we once went through a keg in 45 minutes) the networking . . . we were getting people from other shops to show their art too. We've always tried to embrace everybody. That definitely helped.”

Still, though, for Brett and his crew, it always comes back to the basics.

“We're just trying to make good art. It doesn't matter how cool we look to everybody. We just want to do good stuff and be happy with what we're doing, which is hard enough as an artist, because you're always your own biggest critic.” O

WWW.PAINMAG.COM n over 25 years of experience running my piercing studio, Piercology, I have found using saline alone has not proven to be effective in warding off irritation in a fresh piercing. You also need to cleanse the area free of dried sebum, dirt and other irritants. Most Piercers agree that soaps containing alcohols, fragrances, parabens, and especially ITriclosan, should not be used directly for piercings. What should you cleanse your piercing with instead of these harsh options?

PurSan is formulated and tested specifically for the Body Modification Industry, which requires a unique skin cleansing product. Using PurSan in combination with sea salt soaks makes for a perfect combination for your clients’ aftercare regimen.

Why Use PurSan? PurSan is a mild, vegan-friendly aftercare cleanser that safely and effectively cleans and moisturizes even the most sensitive skin during the healing of piercings and tattoos.

Free from alcohol, parabens, fragrance, or dye, PurSan contains unique ingredients including Hydroxypropl Methylcellulose; Chloroxylenol (PCMX), a proven broad-spec- trum antimicrobial preservative, effective against bacteria and viruses without irritation; Panthenol combined with Allatoin, helps reduce redness and supports healing. PurSan is easy to use and can be kept in the shower for initial aftercare.

Skin typically has a pH level of 4.5 to 6.5, a team of chemists and biologists have formulated PurSan with this in mind. Having a pH range of 5.0 to 5.5, PurSan matches the very fine skin surface barrier called the “acid mantle” which acts as a barrier to bacteria, viruses, and other potential contaminates. Standard soaps typically contain a pH level of 7, or higher, which can disrupt this sensitive layer of cells, and lead to dryness. PurSan is manufactured in Canada in a fully licensed facility, which ering. Proving PurSan to be much more complies with Health Canada and FDA regulations, under convenient than other spray options. aseptic cGMP guidelines, and strict quality-assurance standards. Tried and Tested: It Makes Economic Sense. Proven Effective. Two aftercare obstacles we have noticed are cost, and time Piercing and tattoo studios across commitment. Committing to saline spray for aftercare can cost the world have been using PurSan for up to $50 each month, whereas a single 4oz. bottle of concen- nearly a decade. PurSan for piercing trated PurSan cleanser costs only $8 in most studios. Needing aftercare is safe, effective, and econom- only a small dime-sized amount once a day to cleanse your ical for clients and studios, and is a piercing, PurSan is not only a more cost-effective option, but is perfect combination with sea salt soaks. also less time consuming! In our experience, we have found Whatever you recommend to your clients most clients using saline spray, are only willing to buy between for aftercare, I am confident PurSan will one and two cans. When using PurSan you only need to commit be a convenient, inexpensive, and effec- three extra minutes of aftercare, while you are already show- tive addition to their aftercare routine! O

You can order PurSan at www.Body-Art-Solutions.com or Bodyartsolutions Facebook page. Patrick McCarthy Owner Piercology, Inc. Past President of APP Association of Professional Piercer Member

PAINMAGAZINE 30 attoo artists and promotor Mike Siderio always wanted to bring a tattoo convention to his hometown. With encouragement from good friend Tony Olivas, Mike decided to pursue that dream. But it wouldn’t be just any tattoo show. TNow in its tenth year, the Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash is a full blown tattoo convention drawing tattooers and tattoo fans for a weekend full of incredible artistry and fun events.

Being that the show is in such a unique venue — at the Wildwoods Convention Center, located on the beach and boardwalk in Wildwood, New Jersey, a lot of artists brought their families and stretched their conven- tion weekend into weeklong vacation. Allisin Riot, from Ink Masters, arrived a day early just to go hangout on the beach. continued on next page

PAINMAG.COM “The convention provides a very relaxing atmosphere for the artists; it's very laid back and a family friendly show,” said emcee Dr. Carl Blasphemy. “Typically we're trapped in a convention hall the entire time ---- it was great to be able to take a couple minutes in the middle of the day to walk down the beach, take a dip in the water and then go back to work.”

When the doors were opened at noon on the first day there was a long line of people waiting to get into the convention. More than 400 artists were there to greet them. It was a who’s-who of celebrity artists including Jessy Knuckles, Halo, Kyle Dunbar, Kasey Gonzales, Mike Diaz, Alli Baker, Caroline Evans, Al Fliction, Cleen Roc, Cris Element, Emily Elegado, Sal Pipitone, Fame Montalvo and Jay Blondel.

New tattoos typically don’t mix well with sand and seawater. For those that had just gotten tattooed and wanted to hit the beach, Saniderm provided free aftercare protective wraps.

No boardwalk would be complete without sideshows. The Beach Bash entertained crowds with the likes of Alakazam the Human Knot, Suspension Showgirl and Impalement Artist, Marlo Marquise, and the Lucky Daredevil Thrillshow, featuring husband-and-wife duo Tyler Fyre and Thrill Kill Jill and their three kids in a fast-paced and funny death-defying daredevil stunt spectacular.

Want to just hang — meaning, do a suspension? Those brave enough were allowed to do it right on the spot. Two people who’d never done anything like it in their lives stepped up and experienced a real-life suspension!

“We make sure there's always something happening,” Carl said. “Between acts on the stage, everybody comes down to check out the artists and vendors. As far as people getting tattooed, artists were just bagging them out all day. It was a great weekend for tattooing — so much great ink was on display that we had to set up two judging tables for the daily contests!” O

PAINMAGAZINE 32 Tattoo of the Day & Best of Show Winners

Friday

Color

1st- Nelson, Holy Trinity 2nd- Cody Reed, Black Flame Ritual 3rd- Mike G, Tattoo Shoppe 4th- Alexandra Fische & Cassie O’Neal 5th- Dinky-Tattoos, Rorschach Gallery

Black & Gray

1st- Javier Antunez, Tattooed Theory 2nd- Snapy, Black Diamont Studio 3rd- Nate Cook, Bone Daddy Tattoo 4th- Milan, Holy Trinity 5th- Anastasiya, Holy Trinity

Saturday

Color

1st- Max, Holy Trinity 2nd- Tony Costello, Built 4 Speed 3rd- Danny Galluzzo, Solid Hold Tattoo 4th- Don, Holy Trinity 5th- Kevin Boudreau, Cardinal Tattoo Black & Gray 1st- Jesse Knukles, Pinz & Needlez 2nd- Drew Blanda, AC Ink 3rd- Brett Reckless, Gypsy Skull Tattoo 4th- Macho, Puncture 5th- Dink- Tattoo, Rorschach Gallery

Sunday

Color

1st- Mike G, Tattoo Shoppe 2nd- Kris Busching, Busching Tattoo 3rd- Milan, Holy Trinity 4th- Dennis DeMarzio, The Edge Tattoo 5th- Robbie Ripoll Black & Gray 1st- Jymi Calkins, Mind Altering Tattoos 2nd- Zachery Smith, Profit Ink 3rd- Drew Blanda, AC Ink 4th- Francis, Dale City Body Art 5th- Daniel Weinberger, New Era Ink

Best Of Show

1st- Drew Blanda, AC Ink 2nd- Nelson, Holy Trinity 3rd- Zachery Smith, Profit Ink

PAINMAG.COM PAINMAG.COM magine planet Earth without its oceans. You would be imagining a planet without life. Scientists believe that because of the oceans, the evolution Iof cells formed the living planet Earth. In 2001 H2Ocean was born from the innovative mind of Eddie Kolos. He wanted to create a first aid product line using the healing powers of the ocean. A patent was granted for this novel concept to reconstitute the most vibrant living sea on earth, the Red Sea, by mixing the perfect combination of unrefined organic Red Sea Salt, H2O, and the finest natural ingredients to heal your skin fast with minimal scarring.

H2Ocean was the first aftercare specifically formulated for body piercings and continues to be the most recommended on the market today. The Piercing Aftercare Spray was H2Ocean’s original product with an antibacterial enzyme that is found in your body’s saline system. Lysozyme is a very important enzyme that helps to prevent harmful bacteria from entering our body, thus preventing illnesses and infections.

H2Ocean has since launched the Sea Salt Body Piercing Wound Wash Spray in our 6oz sterile bag in can and the easy to mix concentrated Sea Salt Soak which is perfectly measured for a one gallon solution. Both of these products are isotonic .09% saline.

Oral care has sea salt written all over it! What dentist doesn’t recommend a warm salt rinse after a procedure when healing the inside of your mouth. H2Ocean has the perfectly balanced ingredients to heal your pierced tongue or lip. With natural flavors of Lemon Ice or Arctic mint you will experience a very clean refreshed healthy mouth. It is even safe to swallow as the salt, enzyme and xylitol are naturally found in your body.

Clinical studies have found H2Ocean’s mouth rinses are a very effective natural antibacterial solution that has proven to reduce dental cavities, tooth decay and gingivitis. We are happy to say many cancer and diabetic patients have a safer natural alternative to use for their oral conditions that works better than the harsh chemical mouth rinses.

H2Ocean has you covered when it comes to tattoo aftercare with the first ever kits on the market. Ultimate Tattoo Care and Extreme Tattoo Care both contain the highest quality products that are easy to use. Both kits have the Blue Green Foam Soap that makes cleaning your tattoo very effective on the go. The antibacterial FDA approved soap washes the oozing plasma, blood and excess ink off your skin without harsh, stinging chemicals. The Ultimate Tattoo Care Kit contains the water based unscented Ocean Care Cream and barrier Ocean Foam to heal your tattoo in 5 to 7 days. The Extreme Tattoo Care Kit contains the ointment based Aquatat and the unscented Ocean Care Cream to heal the areas that are extremely hard to heal. It keeps the area more moist to prevent drying and cracking. It really keeps all of the minerals and vitamins in your skin to help it heal fast and prevent scabbing.

H2Ocean’s glides, soaps and numbing products are the #1 choice for top tattoo professionals. The tattooing process is when the healing, cleaning, and soothing of the derma cells is the most important for a greatly healed tattoo.

H2Ocean has thought of it all as the leader in innovative natural technological products. Our team listens to the artists express what they want and we make it happen. Check out our new website and look out for the newest H2Ocean CBD pain relieving glide and aftercare. O

PAINMAGAZINE 34 PAINMAG.COM PAINMAGAZINE 36 Shop: Divine Moments Tattoo Location: Portland, OR. Specialty: Black work. Years Tattooing: 12 years.

What led you to pursue a career as an artist? I started doing visual arts in high school when I took an art class seriously for the first time. It was then I fell in love with art. I started tattooing right out of high school in Salem, Oregon. It’s a great job if you have a natural love of fine art.

How did you develop your unique style? I learned over the years that I think mostly about black work tattoos and, more specifically, ornamental pieces. So, I have pushed my tattoos in this direction, but remain versatile and open to change.

Biggest influences? I still find myself sifting through Sailor Jerry flash as well as other original flash artists for inspiration. As for locally, Chase Tofaya, Nick Pulzone, James Kern,and Bacon– to name a few. I’ve been visiting the Portland Art Museum frequently for painting inspiration.

Favorite aspect of tattooing? The relationships I build and the stories I hear. Also, being able to do something for someone that is special to them.

Least favorite part? Creating an awesome piece of art on someone and having to watch it walk away from me at the end of the day, not knowing if I’ll ever see it again.

Rotary or coil and why? I spent the first 8 years of tattooing with a coil. I always recommend learning on a coil machine, but I love the rotary machines I use now, especially the cartridges that have been coming out lately.

What advice would Nate Laird of today give to Nate Laird of 12 years ago? I’d tell myself to slow down, not only on tattoos but with life. To take every single day and piece of art as an opportunity for progress.O www.divinemomentstattoo.com (503) 477-4615 IG: @artislife

TELL THEM YOU SAW IT IN PAINMAGAZINE 38

t’s about that time again. And by “that time,” I mean we’re deep in the throes of fall. The temperature is cooling down, the leaves are floating around, most of the food on your plate is brown, and your humble narrator is once again, finally, wearing a hoodie. Life is good! But you know what would make life better? Some beer. I’d like to suggest a few for you from my home state of Georgia. Five of them, in fact. Those beers are down below this paragraph, where I’ve written even more paragraphs. IPlease come visit me and drink them, or trade for them on the internet, or acquire them however you like. Because they’re tasty and you deserve it. Second Self Beer’s Mole Porter This Westside Atlanta brewery’s first seasonal is perfect for autumn weather. Mole Porter is brewer with a spice blend of cocoa nibs, cinnamon, clove, and three types of dried chilies. Inspired by Second Self co-founder Jason Santamaria’s family mole recipe, the beer quickly went from a draft-only release to widespread can coverage throughout Georgia. Pairs perfectly with sitting quietly on the porch and watching the leaves change. Orpheus Brewing’s Sykophantes Fig Sour One of this brewery’s many rotating sours, Sykophantes is a fall seaonsal made with dark candy syrup and hundreds of pounds of dried, organic Black Mission figs. When Orpheus first opened several years ago, Georgia hadn’t seen many sour, wild, and funky beers yet. Now that the Peach State scene as progressed, so to has Orpheus. A more recent feature of their impressive taproom is the “barrel bar,” where they highlight some of the complex, rare, and delicious barrel-aged beers. As a bonus, you can literally watch fall happen from their porch, which overlooks Piedmont Park. Eventide Brewing’s Red Headed Haley Red Ale Named after this Atlanta brewery’s Brand Manager Haley Cowan, the Grant Park establishment Red Ale boasts a slightly sweet maltiness with toffee and pecan notes. Eventide suggests pairing it with nuts, creamy cheeses, and pumpkin pie. There aren’t a lot of Red Ales being made these days, so points to Eventide for individuality. And if you make it to their brick and mortar space, depending on the day, you may get to enjoy a farmers market and tons of dogs. These are things that go well with the changing seasons, in our humble opinion. Creature Comforts Brewing Co.’s Reclaimed Rye Reader, I’ll be honest with you. I wasn’t blown away the first time I had this beer. It was nice, but I wasn’t ready. It took a little time for me to appreciate what the brewery’s website describes as “a uniquely complex and flavorful amber ale” that’s buoyed by “french oak and rye malt that lend to a well-rounded body with delicate undertones of toasted bread, spice, and subtle vanilla.” Now, it’s one of those things I have to drink while I’m watching the sun go down on a glorious November day. I think you’ll appreciate it as well. O

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