Beginner's Guide to Sub-Q Injection
A complete step-by-step tutorial for performing safe, painless subcutaneous peptide injections at home. Follow each step carefully.
Important Safety Notice
This guide is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any injection protocol. Proper training from a medical professional is recommended for first-time injectors.
29-31G
Needle Gauge
Insulin syringe
45°
Injection Angle
Into pinched skin
¼ - ½ inch
Injection Depth
Subcutaneous fat
5-10 sec
Injection Speed
Slow and steady
Insulin syringe
29-31 gauge, 0.5 mL or 1 mL capacity. The smaller the gauge number, the thicker the needle. 29G-31G are very thin and nearly painless.
Alcohol swabs
Individually wrapped 70% isopropyl alcohol pads for sterilizing the injection site and vial tops.
Reconstituted peptide vial
Your peptide should already be mixed with bacteriostatic water. If not, see our Reconstitution Guide first.
Sharps container
A puncture-resistant container for safe needle disposal. Never reuse or recap needles.
Clean workspace
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Work on a clean, well-lit surface.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users make these errors. Review this list before each injection until the process becomes second nature.
Injecting too fast
Push the plunger slowly over 5-10 seconds to minimize stinging and lumps.
Not rotating sites
Use a different site each injection. Rotate: left abdomen, right abdomen, left thigh, right thigh.
Reusing needles
Always use a new, sterile syringe for each injection. Reused needles are dull and increase infection risk.
Injecting through wet alcohol
Wait 5-10 seconds for the alcohol to fully dry before inserting the needle.
Skipping hand washing
Always wash hands with soap and water before handling any supplies.
Injecting into muscle
Pinch the skin and use a 45° angle. If the needle goes too deep, you'll hit muscle — which hurts more and changes absorption.
Storing peptides at room temperature
Reconstituted peptides must be refrigerated. Room temperature degrades them within days.
Drawing dose with air bubbles
Tap the syringe to move bubbles up, then push them out before injecting. Small bubbles in sub-Q are harmless but affect dose accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions from first-time injectors.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you know how to inject, explore our other resources to build your complete protocol.