1. Ink Medicine

    1. Ink Medicine

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    San Leandro, CA

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    Ink Medicine

    4.8 (53 reviews)
    PriceyTattoo
    Open 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

    By appointment only

    Updated 3 months ago

    Ink Medicine Photos

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    Gabby A.

    Micah is one of the most amazing tattoo artists I've ever seen. I looked for an artist in the Bay Area for about a year before getting a recommendation from a friend to see Micah. Working with them was very clear and expectations on both sides of the work were very well communicated. I gave Micah an idea for what I wanted, and was struggling to be very specific with them. It didn't take me very long to realize I was in great hands and that I needed to trust the artist and their process. I am BEYOND grateful to Micah for teaching me this, as it's part of the reason for each of my tattoos. Micah's process is exactly what I needed and their artwork is amazing. They listened closely and provided their expert opinion through every step of the way. Micah is also very light-handed and extremely thorough. Their line work, dotting, shading, and attention to detail are special. The tattoo is more beautiful than I could've ever imagined.

    Emily D.

    I went to Micah after years of pondering a tattoo idea with only a general concept. It took me a long time because I couldn't commit without feeling confident that my tattoo artist would be able to understand my vision, but as soon as I discovered Micah, I knew she was the right artist for the work I was looking for. She took my thoughts and bits of inspiration and turned them into an incredible, one of a kind piece of art. Even though I couldn't visualize exactly what I wanted, as soon as I saw the outline, I went "Oh! Yes! That's it!". The consultation and discussion around design was easy and quick for me, and when I met with her for my first session, it was clear that she had spent a lot of time in between on all the preparations. As for the experience of getting the tattoo, it was, dare I say...enjoyable? Yes, there were points when it was intense, but the pain was manageable, and Micah made me feel so at ease that I could relax through it. We would chat, we would not, we would listen to music...and the time zipped by. I don't have a lot to compare this experience to (this is just my second tattoo) but I was very surprised at how quickly Micah completed the work, without ever compromising the quality. It's really clear that she takes great pride in her work and wants her clients to leave in love with their new tattoo. I certainly did! Go to her with a concept and let her genius go to town. You won't be disappointed!

    Micah terrible artist. She is disrespectful to those who are grieving. She went on to calling family member names and calling us toxic people for telling her she could be more respectful about the tattoos we were looking to get. Didn't ask what size or detail. Just shot us down and said she doesn't do "tiny tattoos"

    The frame outline from my first session.
    Jamie G.

    Micah was recommended to me by a friend, and after viewing her work, I decided that she was the one. Logistics/Appointments: I submitted a request on her website (early Feb), got an automated response, and two weeks later (late Feb) got a personal response to set up my initial consultation. My consultation was one month after I submitted the request (early March). So a pretty quick turn around from. At our consultation we talked about what I wanted, how she does design work, her appointment policy, and pricing/deposits. I paid a deposit that would go toward my final tattoo session. We pulled out both of our calendars and booked appointments for my first three sessions. We would start in late April. So a relatively quick turn around time (3 months) from contacting Micah to my first session. My piece took five 2-hour sessions, completed in five months. Total cost was exactly what I budgeted for based on our initial consultation, so no surprises. The Design: I went to Micah with a concept, but no strict design or layout. She took it and ran with it, even did a lot of her own research to make sure it was regionally accurate (it was a nature piece). Micah did not have an exact design for me to look at in the beginning, but I knew to expect this. She free-hands a lot of her work. She was transparent about her inspiration and ideas, and was very clear about the basic design from a high level: the size, location of the elements. The stencils were always super basic, if she used a stencil at all. The details and linework were mostly free handed. She printed out photographs (that I had sent to her) and had them in front of her for inspiration as she inked me. Be ready to put your complete trust in her. It was an honor to present my body as a canvas for someone's original artwork. She was true to the theme that I wanted, and incorporated all of my visions into her design. The results were a better depiction of what I wanted than ANY of the illustrations I tried to to find as examples. I am beyond pleased. The Experience: 5/5, A+ 100. I am shy with new people. I also have my own way of experiencing getting tattooed. Micah was easy to be around and never made me feel awkward for spending my first three sessions in complete silence with a towel over my head. It was therapeutic and amazing. By the last two sessions I had started opening up and we chatted the whole time about all sorts of things. This was also therapeutic. :) She is a joy to be around and talk to. I felt at ease every time I sat on her table. Summary: If you want a standard tattoo that you can pick from a binder, Micah is probably not who you're looking for. If you want something beautiful and 100% original, done in a unique style, and tailored to you, you want Micah! I definitely want more work from her in the future.

    Monique P.

    MIcah is an incredible artist. I love her skill and talent and recommend her highly. She is wonderful to work with on a piece from design through final color choices. There are few artist I trust to freely design. Her skill has gotten so much more robust over the years I have been working with her. Being a butch woman I found an artist who understands me and is incredibly proud to be in the same community as I am on many levels. Thank you for being welcoming to all. Please see Micah for your next tattoo needs. Her work speaks volumes but her compassion and support speak louder.

    Work-in-progress pic. More color was added in the final result (like on the 2 unfilled lotuses).
    Josie J.

    Micah is truly an artist. The piece on my shoulder/upper back is beautiful, unique, and something I will always cherish. I get compliments on it all the time, and have even had people tell me that they had never considered getting a tattoo until they saw mine. I thought long and hard about what I wanted and searched for YEARS to find the right tattooist. Micah is a great collaborator, incorporating what you are thinking with incredible vision. Working with the lines of your body, Micah makes sure not only the design looks excellent but that the placement is right. It's not just tracing over some picture and replicating it on your skin - Micah can draw! And during the actual tattooing process, Micah added freeform flourishes, which I think really speaks to confident, quality artistry. As an exceptional artist with a high level of integrity, I trusted Micah's vision completely and felt honored to be the canvas. I approached Micah with a piece I found after endless searching online. It had a sort of Victorian filigree look to it with a holster-like shape on the upper back/shoulder area. Micah added style to the piece, so it kept that filigree look with a bit more organic, viney touches that I really liked (one suggestion I went with was having one of the vines creep over my shoulder so it can be seen from the front - I love this because when I see it in the mirror, it reminds me of the beauty on my back & is this nice little tease). I also asked to incorporate some Art Deco lotuses I gave examples of, and Micah integrated those into the piece seamlessly. Mind you, the piece definitely got bigger than my initial conception, yet what Micah drew up was so amazing, I decided to go just go with it, as I knew I was in good hands. Micah worked on the piece over the course of a year, with appointments every few months (an in-demand tattooist!). Towards the end, Micah introduced the notion of color. From the portfolio, I knew we could get very innovative with color, using eclectic shades that really popped. Yet I had reservations about going the color route, thinking that a black ink piece would be more classic. In the end, I'm so glad I decided to go with a few bursts of color: sea green (like the copper on the statue of liberty), turquoise, and - perhaps most unusual of all - rich medium brown (I've been asked if the piece is henna). It's been a few years now (we got started on the piece at Black & Blue, finished it at Mermaids), and people often assume it is still a very new piece, the colors have stayed true. I probably won't get any more tattoos, though Micah placed mine in such a way that I could totally expand it down my back if I wanted to - who knows? I think Micah's black lace pieces are the best lace tattoos out there. And there have been other pieces I've seen in the portfolio (but not currently posted on the site), sort of bird-like and sea creature stuff, that have made me want to get completely covered in Micah art! I would recommend Micah to anyone who is looking for an exceptional experience with a great artist of the highest aesthetics. I felt very connected to Micah during the tattooing experience, a safe and warm energy exchange that produced an outcome I couldn't have asked to be better. Good luck!

    Tattoo - armband.
    Eden N.

    I have lived for almost 10 years in the bay which means I had my own share of connecting with wonderful artists and mindful businesses. Micah Riot is by far, and I mean it in every sense of the word, the kindest, most thoughtful, justice-centered and empowering artist I have ever met. I reached out to Micah mid-April and I finally got my tattoo mid-August. I was determined to only work with them after doing an extensive research. And every minute of the wait was worth it. The process of getting this tattoo was so impactful for me considering that this is my very first and I come from a culture and a space where that's frowned upon. Micah held space for me in a casual and organic way that truly made me feel so seen and so affirmed. Their curiosity, questions and openness made the 2.5 hours pass in a blink of an eye. I also appreciated that they were 'real' with me about what we can and what we can't do and still gracefully delivered what I can only describe as a 'gift.' I highly recommend Micah for folks who are willing to trust the process and their vision as an artist. I came in initially sitting in a somehow rigid position in terms of what I want but this whole experience opened me in ways I am not sure any other experience could have. As I am transitioning out of the Bay, Micah will be one of my highlights when looking back at a decade spent in this magical place. Beyond grateful to have come across this incredible human.

    Alayne C.

    Micah was great! First time tattoo and I really wasn't sure what to expect. Micah was welcoming and made me feel completely at ease (she was also quick to respond and schedule which was so appreciated). I'm so stoked on the artwork she did for me - I knew I wanted a thresher shark but was open to where and how big, etc. She took the image I sent and created exactly what I envisioned; she gave me options for where I should get it and talked through what would look best. She's a wonderful artist and you should definitely go to her!

    Micah!
    Julia O T.

    I've followed Micah from Black and Blue, to Mermaids Tattoo, and now to her private studio, and we've become great friends over the years. I am basically a walking canvas of her art! She's been tattooing me for 7+ years. Micah is truly an artist. She will work with you on your piece to make it unique and interesting, and she's honest about what transfers well from idea/drawing to body art, and what doesn't. She's done a large side-body piece (beautiful free-handed flowers and swirls), a full sleeve, a forearm tattoo, a small black heart on my ring finger, and writing on my ribs. She's a wonderful guide through the tattooing process. Very warm and supportive, but also straight forward. She is also not as heavy-handed as some other artists are. She clearly loves tattooing, continues to push herself to improve in her art and skill, and gets excited about the pieces she is working on. She can also go with the flow and make last-minute changes to design ideas. Micah's private tattooing studio is super cute and inviting. She's decorated it to perfectly match her - calming, spiritual, and meaningful. The building is also filled with other artists and small businesses and is a beautiful space. Highly recommended!

    Isaac J.

    Micah is a great artist and a good friend. She completed one tattoo on my right side, 4 large red roses, and we are currently working on a forest on my left forearm. I always enjoy going to see her, even when it hurts, and I really appreciate the detail and creativity she adds to my ideas.

    My tattoo, a hugely meaningful one that's been a long time coming, looks just as wonderful as I imagined it would. I went to Micah because of her skill with watercolor and the creativity she showed in her work, and I was absolutely not disappointed. She's a very cool person and wonderful to talk to, and really prioritizes communication and making you feel comfortable. I'm autistic and often have "bad sensory days" where it's harder for me to take extended sensory input, and she was very accommodating letting me take breaks and have shorter sessions. I was driving up from the South Bay for all of my sessions, and all said and done it took around 8 months. It was expensive, but this kind of tattoo is something worth budgeting for. You make it work because great tattoos are worth that investment, and I'm going to be loving this tattoo for the rest of my life. We talked about what it meant to me and she explained why certain colors would work better than others. She knows her stuff and is good at what she does. If you like her style, you really can't go wrong with Micah. Absolutely would (and probably will) come back to her again for another tattoo.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Ink Medicine

    Review Highlights - Ink Medicine

    I expanded my search to the Bay Area (I live in Monterey), and found Micah, and am so so so glad I did.

    Mentioned in 50 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    People searched for Tattoo 5,014 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

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    Kapwa Ink

    Kapwa Ink

    5.0
    (136 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    Women-owned & operated
    Minority-owned & operated

    I booked my first ever tattoo session with Kristina. I was so nervous, but Kristina has such a calm…read moreand welcoming vibe from the beginning. She brought my vision for my tattoo and gave it a life I couldn't have even created in my dreams! Her idea to add little details to my tattoo made all the difference (ie shading and line work) Her Instagram bio describes her PERFECTLY, a mama and a bestie. It really felt like we've known each other for a long time (I saw another review highlight this and couldn't agree more!). She made me feel super comfortable and we laughed and joked for my whole 4 hour session. It actually went by so much faster than I thought! She checked on me throughout my session asking if I needed a break to drink water or have a snack and it makes all the difference to get through a longer session! I will definitely be back for my next piece and I'd be open to having my next pieces from the other artists as well since I've learned a little about them through Kristina so I'd love to get to know them too! Appreciate you Kristina! (Will add photos later!)

    Got my first tattoo with Kristina about a month ago, and it was the best experience I could've…read morehad!!! The place was very clean and Kristina was very professional, very friendly and talked to me throughout the entire process making me feel calm and relaxed. It wasn't an awkward -quiet appointment and I appreciated that. Kristina, thank you for helping my vision come to life! You're awesome. I walked out of there feeling extremely happy. I'll definitely be coming back for future pieces.

    Photos
    Spine tattoo by Kristina
    Spine tattoo by Kristina
    Custom Medusa by Kristina
    Custom Medusa by Kristina
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    Abstract + koi fish tattoo
    Revere Tattoo

    Revere Tattoo

    4.8
    (211 reviews)
    3.5 mi
    $$

    You know how people always say they "have a guy" for things? I've always wanted that... and then I…read morerealized I do. Tony is my tattoo guy. I've gone to him time and time again for a majority of my work and he can't miss. This last visit in April was extra special because my daughter asked if we could get matching tattoos for her 18th birthday. It was her first and what's this mama going to say, no? Couldn't be me. There was no one else I would trust with that process, especially when it comes to something so precious. We sent Tony our inspo pics and he absolutely nailed it, plus added his own feedback in all the right ways. The detail? On point. The linework? CLEAN AF. Plus, everything healed beautifully. And the compliments? Nonstop. Everywhere we go, someone's asking who did them, and we're more than happy to show them off. Tony and the team also just moved into a new location and the vibe is immaculate. Super laid back, really comfortable, and not intimidating at all. It actually feels like a place you'd want to hang out. No ego, no weird energy, just solid work from someone who clearly cares. Grateful to have found him... because now he's not getting rid of me anytime soon :)

    Tony's work is amazing! I have been going to him for over 15 years and I won't get artwork done by…read moreanyone else. Our most recent piece was done to cover up a big, ugly melanoma scar and even my dermatologist had trouble finding where the incision was when I went for my skin check.

    Photos
    Butterfly tattoo with a lotus it was a cover-up from my old Tattoo from the 80s. Did the most awesome job. !!!
    Butterfly tattoo with a lotus it was a cover-up from my old Tattoo from the 80s. Did the most awesome job. !!!
    Finished product
    Finished product
    Solid line work!

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    Solid line work!
    Orbit Skates & Boutique

    Orbit Skates & Boutique

    4.8
    (879 reviews)
    0.2 mi
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    This review is long overdue!! I seriously can't recommend Orbit Skates & Boutique enough! I reached…read moreout to so many piercing shops trying to find a place that was affordable, clean, & sterile, & Orbit had the best prices by far. They include free jewelry with every piercing (or you can upgrade for a little charge) & they have so many different Jewelry options to choose from. The staff was super friendly & made me feel welcome the second I walked in. The vibe was amazing, & the fact that they're walk-in friendly makes it even better. Whether you're looking to get pierced, shop for jewelry, or pick up skateboard gear, Orbit is definitely the place to-go !! My birthday is in a week, so I'll definitely be back to get another piercing !!

    It was my daughter's birthday, and we decided to bring her in to get her very first skateboard,…read morebest decision ever! From the moment we walked in, Antonio made us feel so welcome. He was incredibly friendly, attentive, and took the time to help my daughter design the perfect skateboard. They had so many awesome deck designs to choose from, a great selection of wheels, and tons of fun stickers that made the whole experience even more exciting for her. While we were waiting for everything to be put together, I believe the manager came out and was just as friendly. He welcomed us and made us feel right at home, which really added to the overall experience. One thing that really stood out to me was a sign about rewarding kids for getting good grades. I thought it was such a cool idea that they encourage kids by letting them earn free skateboard parts and other goodies. I love seeing businesses invest in their community like that. Thank you to Antonio and the whole team for making my daughter's first skateboard such a fun and memorable experience. We will definitely be back!

    Photos
    My son's board and my board.purchased from Orbit in San Leandro
    My son's board and my board.purchased from Orbit in San Leandro
    Orbit Skates & Boutique
    Skateboard

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    Skateboard

    Ink Medicine - tattoo - Updated July 2026

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