I I only use the absolute best and top of the line gear and equipment. A substantial portion of my income is invested back into my tools. I hope to achieve the best by using the best. All needles are pre-packaged pre-sterile single use cartridges. Sealed until the tattoo is set up and disposed of immediately after the tattoo procedure is finished. All inks are usda approved and dated for expiration. I use only latex free nitrite gloves and petroleum free vegetable based gels and yes i do use numbing or anesthetic agents on all my tattoos.