Tattoo machines require specialized lubricants that must be safe for potential skin contact, since these devices puncture skin thousands of times per minute while running at speeds up to 150 cycles per second. The oils must be colorless and non-toxic, because any lubricant that leaks could mix with tattoo ink or come into contact with open wounds during the tattooing process. Professional tattoo artists typically oil their machines before every session, applying tiny drops to needle bars and armature bars that move with astonishing precision. Without proper lubrication, the high-speed vibrations would cause excessive friction and heat, wearing down machine parts in days instead of years and potentially causing painful skin irritation for clients.