How Deep Do Tattoo Needles Go? Depths Explained

If you’re about to get your first tattoo, feeling a bit apprehensive is natural. The thought of a needle repeatedly puncturing your skin can be intimidating. Questions might flood your mind, like how deep do tattoo needles go? Will the ink end up in my bloodstream? Is the pain going to be intense? It’s not unusual for individuals to experience needle phobia, and approximately 1 in 4 adults refrain from getting their desired tattoos due to this fear. 

But hold on because understanding the mechanics of a tattoo machine and how deep those needles go into your skin can demystify the process. And if you’re aspiring to become a tattoo artist, understanding tattoo needle depth is more crucial than anything else you’ll learn in your journey. In this blog, we’ll unveil the secrets of needle depth and how you can have the perfect tattoo experience. So, if you’re on the brink of getting your first ink, read on. 

How Deep Do Tattoo Needles Go Into The Skin

To grasp the idea of how deep do tattoo needles go, it’s essential to delve into the intricacies of skin anatomy. The skin is our body’s largest organ and comprises distinct layers, each serving specific functions. Understanding these layers is pivotal for both tattoo artists and enthusiasts, as it directly influences the outcome of a tattoo. So, let’s explore these layers in greater detail.

The Surface Layer – Epidermis

The epidermis is the farthest layer of the skin, and it is what we see on the surface. However, tattoo needles should go deeper than this layer. The epidermis continually sheds cells, so if the ink is only deposited here, it will quickly push the ink out, resulting in rapid fading of the tattoo.

The Middle Layer – Dermis: The Sweet Spot

Tattoo ink must remain in place to create a crisp and bold tattoo. The dermis is the Core layer of the skin and provides an ideal environment for this purpose. This layer within the skin is abundant in connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerve endings, and it’s also the location of hair follicles and sweat glands.

Notably, the dermis is where tattoo ink should reside for long-lasting, vibrant tattoos. The ideal depth for a tattoo needle to deposit ink into the dermis is typically around 1-2 millimeters beneath the skin’s surface. However, variations exist depending on some factors, such as:

Client’s Skin Type: Older clients often have thinner skin, which may require more precise needle depth adjustment.

Tattoo Placement: Areas with less skin covering underlying bones, like the shin, knee, or elbow, may necessitate shallower needle penetration.

Design Complexity: Tattoos with intricate designs may also benefit from a shallower depth to preserve fine details.

Understanding the importance of the dermis in tattooing helps ensure that ink is deposited in a stable environment, resulting in tattoos that retain their vibrancy over time.

The Deep Layer – Subcutaneous Tissue

Beneath the dermis lies the subcutaneous tissue, primarily composed of adipose (fat) cells. This layer serves functions such as insulation and energy storage. However, it is not suitable for tattoo ink deposition.

Tattoo ink that enters the subcutaneous tissue can appear as if it’s pooling beneath the skin, leading to what’s commonly referred to as a “tattoo blowout.” This results in blurred, distorted tattoo lines and can be challenging to rectify.

Needle Depth For Lining and Shading

When delving into the intricate art of tattooing, it becomes apparent that how deep do tattoo needles go plays a pivotal role in crafting diverse designs. Two fundamental aspects in this realm are needle depth for lining and shading. These depths, meticulously calibrated by tattoo artists, are key to bringing forth the distinct intricacies of each design. Let’s explore how these variations in needle depth shape the world of tattoo artistry.

Needle Depth for Lining

When creating sharp, well-defined lines, tattoo artists typically aim for a needle depth of 1-2 millimeters or about 1/16th of an inch. This depth ensures that the ink is deposited precisely in the second layer of the skin. To accomplish this, tattoo artists often turn to various needle types, depending on their preferences and the desired effect. Among these, you’ll commonly encounter:

1. Round Liner Needles: These are the workhorses of lining, available in various sizes, with 3RL, 5RL, and 7RL being the most popular. They are versatile and ideal for creating different line thicknesses.
2. Tight Liner Needles: Similar to round liner needles but with a tighter grouping of needles, tight liner needles excel at producing ultra-thin and precise lines. They’re the go-to choice for intricate detailing and delicate linework.

Needle Depth for Shading

Shading, on the other hand, calls for a shallower needle depth, typically in the range of 0.5-1 millimeter or about 1/32nd of an inch. The objective is to deposit the ink in the upper dermis, closer to the skin’s surface. This shallower depth facilitates a softer, more blended shading effect, enhancing the tattoo’s three-dimensional appearance.

To achieve masterful shading, tattoo artists frequently employ different needle types, including:

1. Round Shader Needles: These are the go-to shading work choices in various sizes, like 5RS, 7RS, and 9RS. They offer excellent control and versatility for creating varying degrees of shading intensity.
2. Magnum Needles: Featuring a flat configuration, magnum needles are prized for their ability to produce smooth and seamlessly blended shading effects. Sizes like 5M1, 7M1, and 9M1 are commonly used, allowing artists to achieve captivating gradients and shading transitions.

How Deep Does Tattoo Ink Go?

When tattoo ink is deposited into the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, it faces a considerable challenge. The epidermis constantly sheds old skin cells at a staggering rate of around 40,000 cells per day. This rapid cell turnover is the primary reason tattoos placed solely in the top layer of skin tend to fade quickly.

Even when ink is meticulously deposited, approximately one-third is destined to bleed out or fade. This process is normal and arises from the body’s innate defense mechanisms. The human body perceives tattoo ink injected into the skin as an “invader,” triggering a response to remove it. Specialized immune cells, known as macrophages, are deployed for this purpose.

Macrophages diligently commence their work, breaking down the ink particles in an effort to eliminate them through the lymphatic system. However, an interesting phenomenon occurs here: ink particles prove to be resilient. They are too substantial to be entirely broken down by the macrophages, leading to only partial degradation. As tattoos age, this effect becomes increasingly evident. The ink begins to lighten and spread but doesn’t vanish entirely.

Notably, when ink particles find their way to the lymph nodes, they become a permanent resident rather than being eliminated from the body. This residency within the lymph nodes can potentially cause a change in their coloration, although there is currently no documented evidence linking this phenomenon to any health risks. 

How Deep Should Tattoo Needles Be Set?

Regarding achieving precise needle depth in the art of tattooing, two primary methods are employed: “Riding the Tube” and “Floating the Needle.” These methods offer distinct approaches to ensure that the tattoo needle penetrates the skin at the appropriate depth:

Riding the Tube

Riding the tube is a technique frequently recommended for beginners in tattooing. It involves setting up the tattoo machine so that the needles extend no more than 2mm past the tip of the cartridge or tube. This conservative approach minimizes the risk of the needle penetrating too deeply into the subcutaneous layer, which can lead to undesirable consequences.

The artist maintains contact between the machine’s grip and the client’s skin throughout the tattooing process to ensure the tattoo needle reaches the dermis. While this method offers relative ease in controlling needle depth, it comes with a drawback—a potential reduction in visibility. When in contact with the skin, the tattoo machine’s grip may obstruct the artist’s view of the tattoo stencil, increasing the risk of smudging or unintended ink marks.

Floating the Needle

Floating the needle represents an alternative approach in which the tattoo artist holds the grip of the tattoo machine slightly above the skin’s surface, approximately a millimeter or so. Unlike “Riding the Tube,” the tube does not make direct contact with the skin in this method. The key benefit of this method is that it enhances the visibility of the stencil, providing the artist with a clearer view of the tattoo design.

However, “Floating the Needle” requires a higher level of skill and precision, making it a favored method among experienced tattoo artists. To maintain the correct needle depth, artists using this approach must carefully adjust both needle depth and stroke length. 

Selecting the Right Method

Choosing between “Riding the Tube” and “Floating the Needle” depends on several factors, including your comfort level, experience, and the specific tattoo you intend to create. Beginners often find “Riding the Tube” to be a more accessible starting point due to its simplicity in controlling needle depth. As artists gain experience and confidence, they may choose to explore “Floating the Needle” for its enhanced stencil visibility and precision.

It is also worth mentioning that some tattoo artists employ a hybrid approach, seamlessly transitioning between both methods based on the unique requirements of the tattoo. For instance, they may use “Riding the Tube” to create straight lines and switch to “Floating the Needle” for intricate details.

Tattoo Needle Depth Chart

What Happens If a Tattoo Needle Goes Too Deep

Penetrating too deeply with a tattoo needle can result in various issues regarding physical effects and aesthetics. Here’s a detailed explanation of the consequences:

Excessive Bleeding and Pain

Excessive bleeding is a common concern when a tattoo needle goes too deep. The needle can damage blood vessels in the dermis, causing bleeding. This can lead to pain, discomfort, infection risk, and a delayed healing process. In severe cases, excessive bleeding may even result in shock. 

Skin Damage and Scarring

The skin’s strength and elasticity depend on proteins like collagen and elastin. If the needle goes too deep, it can disrupt these essential components, potentially leading to damage. Damage to collagen and elastin can result in weakened skin that may develop scars. Scarring can distort the tattoo’s appearance and leave permanent marks on the skin.

Tattoo Blowout

Tattoo blowout is a frustrating outcome for both tattoo artists and clients. It occurs when the ink spreads beyond the intended boundaries, causing a blurry or distorted appearance. This problem is more likely when the needle penetrates too deeply, allowing the ink to infiltrate the subcutaneous tissue beneath the dermis. The fat layer in the subcutaneous tissue doesn’t trap ink effectively, leading to the unwanted tattoo blowout effect.

Risk of Infection

Deeper needle penetration can introduce harmful bacteria into the skin, increasing the risk of infection. While the skin’s outer layers provide some protection against pathogens, deep needle penetration bypasses this defense. If not properly cared for during the healing process, the tattoo site can become infected, potentially causing more serious health issues.

Proper Tattoo Aftercare

Proper tattoo aftercare is the key to ensuring that your new ink heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy. Here is a detailed guide to help you take care of your tattoo step by step:

Immediately After Your Tattoo Session

• Your tattoo artist will apply a bandage to the freshly inked area. Typically, this bandage remains on for 24 hours, although it may vary based on the artist’s recommendation.
• After the initial 24-hour period, carefully remove the bandage.
• Cleanse your tattoo with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your fingertips or a soft cloth, avoiding any abrasive materials.
• Pat dry your tattoo with a clean cloth; avoid rubbing.
• Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer, such as Aquaphor or Lubriderm, to the tattooed area. Ensure the coverage is light and not excessive.

During the first two weeks

• Avoid immersing your tattoo in water, including baths, swimming, or extended showers exceeding 10 minutes.
• Refrain from wearing tight clothing over the tattoo to prevent irritation.
• Resist the urge to scratch your tattoo to avoid skin damage and infection risk.

For the Next Two Weeks

• Continue to cleanse your tattoo gently twice daily with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap.
• After each wash, pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or cloth.
• Apply a thin layer of odorless moisturizer to your tattoo two to three times a day.
• Maintain the prohibition on soaking your tattoo in water and avoid tight clothing.
• Stay committed to not picking or scratching your tattoo.

Final Thoughts

A tattoo signifies a commitment to permanent art on a specific body part. This decision requires your full consent and understanding, with a critical aspect being how deep do tattoo needles go, as we’ve detailed above. With the help of this knowledge, you can now find the best tattoo artist in your town and select the perfect tattoo design that resonates with you. It’s a step toward making your tattoo experience truly exceptional and meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions