Damn I didnt see the 1/2 inch mark. Yes, you need 1.5. If pain is a factor, 99 percent is in the epidermis, so after an inch, push it the rest of the way. Not bad at all..... Have you ever seen a stabbing video on tv? even lean people have that 1/2 to 1'' of fat layer on top...... you inject in the fatty tissue and its a waste and will swell, and maybe become abcest..... not good.