Understanding Needle Size & Power

How Needle Size Affects Voltage

• Thicker needles penetrate a larger surface area and require more machine power.

• Smaller needles create less resistance and require lower voltage settings.

• There is no universal perfect voltage—machine type, hand speed, and skin type all matter.

Starter Voltage Guide (Rotary Machine)

What Happens If Voltage Is Incorrect?

Too Low:

• Needle drags

• Ink sits too shallow

• Patchy lines

• Fading

Too High:

• Excess trauma

• Blowouts

• Increased bleeding

• Scarring risk

AZ PMU Academy Rule

• Match voltage to needle size.

• Adjust based on hand speed.

• Watch skin response carefully.

• Avoid exceeding 8 volts to reduce trauma.www.azpmu.org | 480-823-6249