Understanding the correct depth for a tattoo needle is crucial for ensuring comfort, proper ink saturation, and the longevity of the tattoo. Here’s what you need to know.
Setting Up Your Tattoo Machine
The tattoo needle should stick out 1mm to 2mm from the tattoo machine. Skin type, design, and technique will affect the ideal needle length. The dermis layer thickness ranges 1mm to 2mm, so adjust the needle in this range when processing. Ensure the grip and tip fit the needle properly while also controlling the penetration level.
Modern tattoo machines use electromagnetic coils to move an armature bar up and down. A barred needle grouping is connected to the armature bar that pushes ink into the skin. Tattoo guns are legal to buy online, though it’s illegal to tattoo a child without parental consent.
Selecting the Right Tattoo Needle
Different types of needles are used for various tattooing techniques:
- Round needles are good for clean lines, such as outlines.
- The "gauge" of a tattoo needle refers to its size. For example, a 12 gauge, 09 Round Liner Needle means it’s a 12 gauge needle with a 9 pin count.
Tattoo Process and Technique
A tattoo needle should go 1 to 2 millimeters deep into the skin, targeting the dermis layer without causing damage. Several factors like skin type, tattoo design, and technique used affect the ideal needle depth. Adjust needle depth for client comfort and good ink saturation.
Where the ink goes: The needle tip holds the ink and deposits it into the dermis layer as it penetrates the skin.
Control needle depth for varying skin types and areas. Go too shallow, the ink fades quickly; go too deep, it can cause skin damage and excessive pain.